cultural heritage conservation for early learners: outreach and engagement with the next generation

Cultural Heritage Conservation for Early Learners explores how to introduce young audiences to art conservation. Conservators and educators from around the world share their approach to creating engaging, hands-on programs for children aged three to eight and their caregivers.

Drawing on their experiences as conservators and educators, the authors provide an in-depth look at the Smithsonian Institution’s popular ＂Art & Me＂ family workshops. Readers will gain practical insights into the workshop design, which draws upon years of program evaluation and discover how these workshops foster an understanding of cultural preservation; familiarize attendees with museum spaces; and encourage a sense of responsibility for preserving history and culture. The book also explores case studies beyond the United States, showcasing diverse approaches to early learner engagement in cultural heritage conservation. These real-world examples, encompassing various settings and collaborations, delve into the adaptation of virtual and online resources in response to contemporary challenges.

Cultural Heritage Conservation for Early Learners is an indispensable guide for emerging and established educators, conservators, and museum professionals who wish to integrate art conservation and cultural heritage preservation into early learning. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in innovative, arts integration teaching methods that enhance critical thinking and foster a deeper appreciation of cultural heritage.

Ellen Chase is Objects Conservator at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Asian Art, where she has worked towards the long-term preservation of the collection since 1999. Her research interests focus on a range of materials including ceramics and lacquer, as well as investigating ways to bring an appreciation of cultural heritage conservation to diverse audiences. Ellen is active in a range of community outreach and engagement activities both through the museum and as a part of the American Institute for Conservation’s Education Outreach (K-12) Committee.

Laura Hoffman specializes in online and visitor engagement. As Director of Digital Engagement at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, she oversees institutional digital initiatives and leads a team responsible for expanding the museum’s online presence. In her previous role as Program Manager, she developed public programs, interpretation, and digital engagement for the Lunder Conservation Center at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Laura has also held digital and education positions at The Phillips Collection and deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum. She has served on various professional committees for the Museum Computer Group and the American Institute for Conservation.

Matthew Lasnoski serves as a Digital Services Analyst in the Taxpayer Experience Office of the Internal Revenue Service. From 2014 to 2022, he held multiple positions at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Asian Art (NMAA), including Manager, Youth & Family Programs and Audience Engagement Strategist. During this time, he co-led the museum’s Audience Research Team (ART), focusing on audience research and evaluation. Before joining NMAA, Matthew earned his MPhil in History of Art and Architecture at the University of Cambridge, King’s College. His research focused on the impact of manufacturing processes on the development of new decorative techniques in Ayyubid metalwork in the early thirteenth century. Matthew also served as an educator at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, with a focus on distancing learning through videoconferencing and webinars.