ICOMOS-ISCMP Excellence in Mural Conservation Award

We are excited to announce the Excellence in Mural Conservation Award! The Award aims to recognize an outstanding project in mural painting conservation that exemplifies innovation, critical thinking, and a holistic approach to preserving cultural heritage. It honors a conservation project that sets a new benchmark in the field, balancing the integrity of the artwork with innovative techniques and sustainable practices. The award winner will be decided upon by a judging panel comprised of 6 members of the ISCMP Bureau and the Events Commission.

Please read on for more details, including: criteria, eligibility requirements, evaluation, how to apply and award benefits!

Criteria for Excellence

Comprehensive Conservation Approach
Demonstrates excellence in methodology, inclusivity, and sustainable practices, engaging diverse stakeholders.

Innovation in Traditional or State-of-the-Art Techniques
Introduces or applies innovative methods in mural conservation, whether low-tech or high-tech, showcasing significant cost benefits, water management approaches and/or interdisciplinary strategies.

Community Engagement
Effectively involves local communities, conservators, and stakeholders in a collaborative conservation process.

Ethical and Critical Approach
Adopts a thoughtful, critical approach to the ethical, historical, and artistic implications of preserving the mural painting.

Eligibility Requirements

Projects must have been completed within the past five years. Projects currently underway may be considered if substantial progress has been documented. Members of the ICOMOS Bureau, Events Commission, their immediate families, and any closely affiliated individuals are not eligible to participate to ensure the integrity and impartiality of the evaluation process. The application must be submitted in English or French. Submissions should align with ICOMOS ISCMP Standards and Principles.

Evaluation Criteria 

  • Comprehensive Conservation Approach
    Excellence in conservation methodology, integrating diverse and/or complex inclusive and sustainable practices, with adaptability for future efforts and engaging various stakeholders.
  • Conservation Scientific and/or Technical Excellence
    Use of advanced scientific methods and/or traditional techniques ensuring effective preservation while maintaining artistic and cultural significance.
  • Innovation
    Novel approaches in conservation, utilizing new technologies, innovative traditional methodologies, or creative solutions to address challenges unique to mural paintings.
  • Sustainability
    Environmentally responsible methods ensuring the mural’s condition for future generations.
  • Critical and Ethical Approach on Conservation
    Emphasis on ethical considerations and critical analysis in addressing complex preservation issues such as retreatability, adaptability or authenticity.
  • Community and Social Impact
    Meaningful collaboration with stakeholders, including local communities, indigenous groups (where applicable), and cultural institutions.
  • Cultural and Historical Significance
    Focus on preserving murals of significant cultural, historical, or artistic value to reinforce cultural identity and heritage.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach
    Mutual respect and understanding between conservators and those affected by the murals’ conservation.

How to Apply

At this link you will find the Project Description Form. In addition, please upload a Cover Letter, and any supplementary materials such as visual documentation, bibliography, etc. (if applicable) with the form. The deadline to apply: August 31st, 6 pm CET

Awards and Benefits

The award ceremony will take place during the 1st Annual ISCMP Workshop, where the winning project will be showcased through a multimedia presentation. This presentation will offer attendees a deep insight into the project’s methodology, innovations, and community impact.

Benefits:
A feature on the ICOMOS ISCMP Website and LinkedIn page
Opportunity to share work with the ISCMP community during award ceremony

We look forward to seeing your applications!