»... but now I can implement the best
alternatives.«
Interview with our graduate Nitin Kumar, head art conservation department of AstaGuru, Mumbai
CHCM: Why did you choose the Master’s program in »Cultural Heritage Conservation and Management« (CHCM)?
NITIN KUMAR: First, I come from an art conservation background and did all my studies in India. But I had the opportunity to travel to Europe for some part of my studies. During this time I was able to observe the difference between the European and Indian perspective towards art conservation and let's say the whole concept towards art. So, I chose the CHCM programme to be part of the European Conservation Management, which ultimately would help in implementing better protocols in India.
CHCM: What were your expectations of the CHCM and how were they met?
NK: My expectation from CHCM was to understand the management part and how it can help art conservation. Though the management is more in line with the Heritage aspect. It covers the broad sense of heritage and how international bodies and their protection laws are implemented. These were never part of my studies and the course gave me a holistic approach towards heritage.
CHCM: What in your opinion is the added value of this program compared to other similar programs?
NK: The study tours to get first hand experience with top notch institutions in Europe and international projects that students get to work on is of added value. Moreover the tie-up with Silpakorn University helps to get first hand experience of Asian perspective towards conservation.
CHCM: How did the CHCM help you in your job search?
NK: I recently changed my job, it indeed helped me in finding a better prospect.
CHCM: What were the most important lessons you learned from the program?
NK: The change in perspective towards art conservation. Earlier I would go for only learnt methodologies, but now I can implement the best alternatives.
CHCM: What were your most memorable impressions?
NK: The study tour to Albania where I had the opportunity to work on an earthquake affected heritage site. We worked on the ethnographic collection of the museum which otherwise would have been lost to disaster. The work that we carried out at the site indeed was memorable and left a long lasting impression.
CHCM: What did you study before CHCM and where are you currently employed or working on which project?
NK: I studied art conservation from Indian Institute of Heritage (formerly National Museum Institute), India and have finished my MA art conservation and PhD from the same institute. Currently I am heading the art conservation department of AstaGuru, Mumbai, India.
