Icon26 will explore the transformative power and potential of the profession. This conference will celebrate the work of professional conservator-restorers, focusing on the impact of the conservation profession - on itself, the wider heritage sector, and society as a whole. From small but meaningful improvements in practice to significant changes that reshape how conservation is understood and valued.
We are calling on conservators from all areas of practice to submit papers for what promises to be a broad, inclusive dialogue. Whether your work has local, institutional, or global significance, we want to hear your stories of influence, collaboration, and celebration. We want to ensure that the conference reflects the most pressing issues facing the sector.
What We Are Looking For
We welcome contributions from the entire conservation community, including private practitioners, professionals in public institutions, early career practitioners, and those engaged in interdisciplinary collaborations. While technical work is highly valued, papers should be outward-looking, focusing on reflection, meaningful outcomes, and relevance to the broader conservation community.
We are particulary interested in exploring:
- How has your practice evolved or influenced others?
- What lessons can the profession draw from your experiences?
- How does your work reflect on challenges, successes, and the future of the field?
Papers don’t need to focus on large-scale projects. We want to hear about the work you’re proud of - whether it’s a major project with a wide-reaching impact or a smaller-scale effort that has made a meaningful difference.
Themes and Ideas For Papers
To help you form your ideas, we have pulled together a broad list of themes below that you might find helpful in considering which projects you would like to put forward.
Pushing Boundaries: Innovation in Conservation
- How is the conservation profession innovating?
- Exploring new methods, materials, and ways of thinking.
- Highlighting examples of transformative practices, both large-scale and in day-to-day work.
Futureproofing Conservation
- Adapting to external challenges beyond the profession’s control, such as climate change, economic constraints, or technological advances like AI.
- Examining resilience and sustainability in practice.
- Exploring workforce demands and considering how traditional skills remain relevant alongside new and emerging areas of practice in this evolving landscape?
Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Approaches
- Showcasing collaborative efforts across teams, institutions, and disciplines.
- Reflecting on the impact of joint projects and partnerships.
- Exploring how diverse perspectives enrich conservation practice.
Submission Instructions, Deadlines and Further Information
Submissions must be made on the submission template below. The deadline for submissions is Monday 4 August 2025 at 5pm.
Icon26 Submission Template
We will be running two workshops where you can discuss your ideas or raise any questions you may have. These will be held on Monday 28 April 2025 at 3pm and Friday 9 May 2025 at 10am.
If you have any questions about your submission, please get in touch by email at [email protected].
Submit Your Abstract
We look forward to your submissions!
Icon26 Papers Workshop's
Accessibility and sustainability will be embedded throughout Icon26, including the venue, catering, printed materials, venue, and travel and accommodation options.