PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Advanced Residency Program was conceived to advance the field of photograph conservation.

During the two-year program, the Andrew W. Mellon Fellows became equipped for positions of leadership in the photograph conservation profession and the conservation field at large through a combination of expert classroom instruction, advanced treatment experiences at George Eastman House, and exposure to advanced research techniques at the Image Permanence Institute. The curriculum, facilities, and staffing of the Advanced Residency Program were designed specifically to teach what is essential and unavailable anywhere else in the world.

In addition, throughout the program, Fellows were expected to produce and contribute important and vital research to the field of photograph conservation. This research was disseminated at conferences, the program’s web site, and through conservation publications.

The Advanced Residency Program was not a formal academic program, as the Fellows already possessed the highest degree in their profession. Rather, the model for these fellowships resembled that of a medical school residency. However, certain academic standards did apply. After final evaluation, Fellows received a certificate from George Eastman House and Image Permanence Institute to indicate successful completion of the program.