A scientific technique generally used in testing for the HIV virus is being utilised for the first time in the conservation of wall paintings in a remote Cypriot monastery.

 Conservation of the Bowes Museum's unique, lifesize, 230-year-old Silver Swan musical automaton has begun, with initial work on the rarity taking place already.

Specialist horologist Matthew Read will work on the metallic bird in the galleries in September 2008. Matthew's work will allow the development of a complete conservation record ensuring Bowes staff can keep the swan in working order for many years to come.

 A prized painting owned by The Herbert in Coventry has survived its latest adventure unharmed and will go back on display in the Old Masters Gallery at the newly refurbished museum in August 2008.

A major piece of conservation and restoration work is underway following the sensational discovery of a piece of classic silent film, believed for many decades to be lost.  Though widely acclaimed now as a classic of the early cinema, Fritz Lang’s silent classic Metropolis was not a box-office hit when it first came out in 1927 and around 30 minutes were cut out when the film was released in the USA.  Once the restoration is complete first will be possible to view the entire film in its original form for the first time in eight years.