In accordance with the times, the award, which would normally be presented at the RWHA Annual Luncheon at the London Hilton on Park Lane, was presented via Zoom.
Katy’s husband, Richard presented the medal on behalf of the Plowden Chairman, Nick Farrow. Fifteen people joined the celebration including Plowden Board Members as well as Katy’s nominators from the National Trust. Clare Meredith ACR, Plowden Medal Winner 2003, talked about her career.
The Chairman said, “Katy received the award for her inspirational leadership and powerful advocacy for the sustainability of cultural heritage; influencing and supporting the conservation profession within and beyond the National Trust, giving conservators a clear sense of professional identity and purpose, and demonstrating commitment and professionalism through her knowledge and experience of historic properties and collections.”
Katy replied, “I am delighted and honoured to be awarded the Plowden Medal for 2020. As the nomination is made by my peers I feel that this recognition is as much an accolade to the conservators with whom it has been my great pleasure to work, both in institutions, particularly in the National Trust where I have spent the majority of my career, and in the freelance sector, especially in supporting Icon’s Accreditation scheme.
Although I started, as many conservators do, as a specialist, I have benefited hugely in learning from my colleagues about our common areas of practice. I am proud to have played a part in developing the conservator profession and feel privileged to be joining a very starry group of previous award winners. I am very grateful to the Royal Warrant Holders Association for their championing of this award and of the importance of conservation to the UK.”
More information about the Plowden Medal Award and past winners (including Katy's citation) can be found on the RWHA website.
