The BAPCR (British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers) is pleased to announce the call for papers for their forthcoming conference:
Forging Ahead: Metals in Paintings
Friday 9th October 2026, The British Library, London
Deadline for abstract submissions: Friday 27th February 2026
This conference aims to explore current research into metals in paintings, whether it be elemental and chemical, aesthetic and structural, depictive and decorative. It will bring together science and technical analysis, art history and contemporary artistic practice, broadening our understanding of the way metals are present in paintings and enhancing our appreciation of the cultural and art historical relevance of these materials, which are both ubiquitous and precious.
We invite abstracts on all subjects related to metals in paintings conservation as well as wider disciplines such as frames, books, paper and sculpture, provided that it contains a connection with a painted element: proposed papers might address early examples of the use of metals, the depiction of metal in painting, the application of metallic pigments, artists’ use of mixed media, technical investigations, the presence of metals on degradation phenomena and the preservation of paintings, and the use of metals in practical treatments.
Submission Details: Please submit abstracts for consideration by the Selection Panel, to the BAPCR secretary, Gemma Collins (BAPCRsecretary@gmail.com), by Friday 27th February 2026. Please see the attached document and link for further submission details. https://www.bapcr.org.uk/events/bapcr-conference-2026/
