David Orr

Graduate Diploma & Graduate Diploma in Conservation of Metalwork, 2010 – 2011

I came to West Dean College after completing a BA Hons in Modern History and an MA in Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies. I have a keen interest in the restoration of industrial heritage, especially steam locomotives. Coming to the college has allowed me to integrate my metal orientated hobby with my education and pursue a career in conservation. Once I learnt about West Dean, I knew that it would be an ideal place where I could develop my skills and make new friendships. The graduate diploma course is fantastic as an introduction to metalwork conservation. It is orientated towards practical work which is backed up by a thorough science and material culture programme. In the workshop I had my own work bench and access to a vast amount of tools and machines which allowed me to practice on various materials and techniques when working with metal. All of this is backed up with tutors who have a wealth of experience and are keen to see students experiment so they may learn more. Whilst studying I met people from other conservation disciplines which meant I could learn from them and apply some of their knowledge to the objects I was working on. Having left West Dean I intend to start my own business in the conservation of architectural metalwork at home in Northern Ireland. West Dean has played a vital role so that I may achieve this goal and it is an experience I will always value.

Past and present students’ employers and work placement providers include The British Museum, Royal Armories, National Maritime Museum, Hall Conservation, Plowden & Smith and National Gold Museum Columbia, Bogota.