Alex is a Senior Conservator at the British Museum, specialising in the conservation of 3D organic objects, including plastics. As the sole conservator responsible for plastics conservation within the institution, Alex plays a pivotal role in preserving an ever-growing collection of almost 30,000 plastic-containing artefacts. With QEST’s support, whilst on sabbatical, he will undertake a two-year MSc in the Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media at University College London (UCL), the only UK course offering training in the conservation of plastics, also termed contemporary materials.
A respected voice in the field, Alex has spoken nationally and internationally at events, including those organised by the Institute of Conservation (ICON), where he chaired a special interest sub-group from 2014 to 2017. He is passionate about sharing his expertise and has participated in teaching development workshops at the City & Guilds of London Art School, alongside contributing to the British Museum’s student placement programme.
Alex’s ambition is to continue teaching and eventually undertake a PhD, furthering his research, and sharing the skills learnt with colleagues and peers. Ultimately, he aims to position the museum as a centre of excellence in the conservation of plastics.
