Eleanor Vance is an ICON-accredited conservator with 20 years of experience restoring fine art and advising on collection care. She specialises in the chemical stability of materials, from traditional oil paintings to modern acrylics and outdoor bronze sculpture. Her work focuses on preventive measures for displays within Grade II listed buildings and private residences.
Eleanor Vance graduated with a Ph.D. in Conservation of Easel Paintings from the Courtauld Institute of Art and has since worked with national museums and private heritage estates across the UK. Her expertise lies in the chemical interaction between art materials and their environment, specifically addressing challenges like humidity control in damp UK climates and the damaging effects of UV light on watercolours and pastels. Eleanor provides technical consultancy for installing modern infrastructure, such as immersive LED walls or track lighting, into fragile Grade I and II listed interiors without compromising the historic fabric. She is a specialist in the treatment of 'foxing' on paper and the stabilization of outdoor bronze sculptures against coastal corrosion. Eleanor advocates for scientific rigour in display methods, educating collectors on the risks of acidic mounting boards and the necessity of museum-grade glazing. Her writing bridges the gap between scientific conservation reports and practical advice for homeowners, ensuring that aesthetic choices do not lead to the degradation of valuable cultural assets.