The article below is from the August newsletter of the Georgia Archives. To sign up for the newsletter, use the form on the archive’s website: https://www.georgiaarchives.org/
This summer, the Georgia Archives is excited to welcome two exceptional pre-program
conservation interns: Grace Mattaliano and Laura Schneider. Grace, an Art History major from
Connecticut College, and Laura, a Collections Research Associate at the Madison Historical
Society, are exploring the complex world of book and paper conservation. Their journey is made
possible by the generous sponsorship of the Friends of Georgia Archives and History (FOGAH).
A Unique Internship Experience
Our Pre-Program Summer Conservation Internship is renowned for its immersive and hands-on
approach to conservation training. Under the guidance of our expert conservator, Sigourney
Stanford, Grace and Laura are not just learning about conservation—they are actively engaging
in projects that preserve Georgia’s historical heritage.
Grace chose this internship to combine her two greatest interests: conservation and archives. Her
fascination with conservation began during her freshman summer at Connecticut College when
she participated in archaeological conservation work in Italy and Greece. One of the most
challenging projects Grace tackled at the Georgia Archives was a soil map from 1922, which
required removing over 20 pieces of tape and mending numerous tears. This painstaking work
taught her the importance of patience and managing multiple projects simultaneously. She
learned that the sense of achievement at the end of such a meticulous process makes the effort
worthwhile.
Laura, on the other hand, discovered her passion for art conservation through her love for art,
history, museums, and science. She was drawn to this internship by the prospect of expanding
her paper conservation skills and experiencing the unique environment of an archive. One of her
ongoing challenges has been mastering tape removal, a delicate process requiring heat and
precision to avoid damaging fragile paper. Over time, Laura has refined her technique for safe
tape removal, enhancing her practical skills.
The Importance of This Internship
This internship is a vital stepping stone for aspiring conservation professionals, providing a rare
opportunity to develop essential skills and experience crucial for postgraduate conservation
programs. By the end of their time with us, Grace and Laura will have gained a deep
understanding of conservation ethics and practices, the ability to perform basic book and paper
conservation treatments, and familiarity with a variety of conservation tools, equipment, and
materials. Their efforts will culminate in a professional portfolio, showcasing the techniques and
skills they’ve honed at the Georgia Archives.
Grace’s experience at the Georgia Archives has deepened her understanding of the science and
chemistry behind conservation treatments. She now appreciates the significance of conservation
ethics, recognizing that each object is unique and must be preserved as the original maker
intended. Laura’s internship has provided her with an inside look at the life of a working
conservator, where she has learned to develop treatment plans by analyzing objects from
multiple angles and considering their individual needs.
Future Aspirations
As they look to the future, Grace plans to return to Connecticut College for her senior year,
where she will present her Museum Studies capstone project related to this internship. She will
also be starting her first semester of Organic Chemistry and fulfilling prerequisites for graduate
school. Laura is seeking another position in conservation or museum collections, and she plans to
visit the UK in September to explore museums and possibly tour conservation graduate
programs.
About FOGAH
The Friends of Georgia Archives & History is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to
supporting the Georgia Archives. Since its formation in 2004, FOGAH has played a crucial role
in enhancing the programs of the Georgia Archives and the Georgia Capitol Museum. The
organization funds research tools, conservation efforts, and educational programs, while
members also volunteer for various events and advocate for the value of archives. FOGAH
supports archival training through internships and the Dunaway Scholarship to the Georgia
Archives Institute. By underwriting education programs, public lectures, exhibits, and projects,
FOGAH helps bring the rich history preserved at the Archives and Capitol Museum to life,
highlighting the significance and impact of historical documents and artifacts. To learn more
about FOGAH, please visit FOGAH.org.
The Georgia Archives, with the unwavering support of the Friends of the Georgia Archives and
History (FOGAH), is proud to offer this unique and impactful internship. We eagerly anticipate
the contributions Grace and Laura will make in the field of conservation and beyond.
For more information about the Georgia Archives and our programs, visit our website: Georgia
Archives.