For the past few days I ve tried not to be lured into this discussion. As a conservator, recent posts, especially the succinct "they are condescending" have motivated me to weigh in. A few of points: First: I wonder if the roles of the conservator and curator are inherently adversarial. While curators deal with art and artifacts within a cultural context, conservators are trained to understand art from the standpoint of materials. While overly simplified, curators perceive "ideas" while conservators see "matter." This issue becomes most profound when control over a museum collection is at stake. Using color photographs as an example, a conservator might argue that cold storage is essential for the preservation of the object, while a curator might have an equal imperative to use the photograph for an exhibit. Obviously, a balance must be struck and this adversarial relationship overcome if a museum is to fulfill its mission to both preserve and promote culture. All conservators understand this compromise. Within the context of negotiating this compromise, condescension from both curator and conservator is possible, but on the whole, avoidable. Second: Conservators should be paid for their services like any other professional, no question. Within limits, however, most conservators give telephone advice at no cost. In my experience, when a private individual or institution needs to make a decision that will affect the preservation of a collection, conservators will offer their advice in the interest of the collection. I would recommend that curators never hesitate to call a conservator for advice. If there is no budget to pay for a consultation, explain that up front. There is always a some small way an institution can acknowledge help. Third: Art conservation is a mature discipline. There are accepted techniques and standards of practice that apply to the treatment of works of art. It is a fact that responsible care for collections will, at times, require the advice or services of a conservator. Paul Messier Conservator of Photographs & Works of Art on Paper Boston Art Conservation tel. 617 738 7072 fax. 617 738 8841 email [log in to unmask]