We’re at a real turning point in the art technical industry.

• Our workforce is ageing.

• Structured entry routes into the industry are extremely limited.

• Training investment is inconsistent — and often confused with certification. Forklift, IPAF and MEWP licences are essential tools for doing the job. They are not the same as developing technical skill, judgement and professional standards.

• Diversity remains a challenge.

  
  

And yet we expect standards to maintain themselves.

If we want a sustainable, resilient and diverse future for our sector, we have to start investing properly in the people who physically safeguard our art and artefacts.

I could rant about this for hours — but instead, I want to start some conversations I believe we need to be having about our work and how we build consistent skills in our industry.  

I’ve worked as an art technician across museums, galleries and institutions — full-time, contract and freelance — for over 20 years (and yes, it’s starting to show).

For the past five years, I’ve also been delivering training programmes in art technical skills. That’s given me a broad view of the sector — not just from the install floor, but from conversations, workshops and industry surveys that highlight what’s really happening.

And I think we need to start talking about it.

I want to focus on training and development in the art technical profession — and why it can no longer be treated as informal, optional or reactive.

If we want to achieve high standards, be sustainable institutions and protect collections appropriately, we must actively invest in the people who physically safeguard them.

Because skills do not sustain themselves.

Do you think we are at the crossroads? (crossroads - thanks Bone Thugs n’ Harmony) Seriously though - what’s your thoughts before I start spilling mine? 

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