This year marks a significant milestone for Icon, as we proudly celebrate our 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, Icon has been dedicated to safeguarding cultural heritage, with the invaluable help of our members, volunteers, partners, and supporters. As we look forward, we are excited to build upon these foundations and continue working together to shape the future of the conservation profession.
Founded in 2005, following the merger of five bodies, Icon has worked as an independent charity, playing a vital role in championing the care and preservation of cultural heritage. As a membership organisation, Icon has grown over the years to represent a community of over 2,300 individuals, including professional conservators, volunteers, and heritage owners; all united by a shared commitment to safeguarding our cultural heritage.
Icon's governance began to take shape when the first trustees were elected on 6 December 2005, marking a key moment in our history. As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past 20 years, we are reminded of the remarkable community that has come together to support and advance the field of conservation. From the early days of Icon’s founding to the work we do today, our collective efforts have ensured the continued preservation of cultural heritage for future generations. The journey has been one of growth, collaboration, and shared passion for the art and science of conservation.
Icon's first Board of Trustees, elected in December 2005
Key Moments in the History of Icon
Along the way, we've marked many important milestones that reflect the growth and impact of our work:
- 2006 - Launched the Icon Internship Programme, a structured internship placement offering emerging professionals the opportunity to develop their careers.
- 2012 - Published our National Conservation Education & Skills Strategy seeking to ensure an educated, skilled, and diverse workforce
- 2016 - Icon became the sole accrediting body of PACR, now ‘Icon Accreditation’, which has since accredited over 1,100 professional conservators
- 2022 - Conducted our first Conservation Salaries Survey, offering up-to-date insight on the salary levels across the conservation profession, allowing us to curate a benchmarking system to identify below-average pay
- 2023 - Published our revised Conservation Skills Strategy, to support the delivery of our strategic priorities, and to maintain the highest standards in conservation practice.
- 2023 - Streamlined our Accreditation Process, ensuring flexible timelines and adding a Flexible Access Policy to ensure reasonable adjustments.
A Message From Our Team
Emma Jhita, CEO at Icon, and Emma Chaplin, Chair of Icon's Board of Trustees share the following message on behalf of the Icon team:
Icon's strength is its members, so it's a big thank you to all of you - for everything you've contributed in the past 20 years and continue to do in support of the profession and Icon's work into the future!
Emma Jhita, CEO at Icon
What's Coming This Anniversary Year?
To mark this special anniversary year, we are excited to offer a range of events and initiatives.
From insightful round-table discussions, to key events for our ACR members, including the ACR Conference in October, there will be ample opportunities to participate and collaborate. In November, we will host our inagural Winter Reception, featuring an in-person AGM, the Annual Lecture, and the Conservation Awards and Photography Prize 2025.
We are also offering a range of enriching learning experiences including Care of Collections for Non-Conservators, Disaster Management, and Documentation, designed to support both new and seasoned professionals. We’re also launching a fresh series of Lunch and Learn events, hosted by our talented Icon staff team. These informal yet insightful sessions will be free to all Icon members, providing a wonderful opportunity for growth and discussion in a relaxed environment.
Throughout the year, there will be many opportunities to engage with the conservation community, share knowledge, and continue to shape the future of the profession.
Looking Forward
Icon's achievements over the past 20 years stand as a testament to the dedication and commitment of the conservation community. As we continue to support professionals in the sector and advocate for the conservation profession, we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead, including using this milestone to explore the opportunity to petition for Royal Charter.
Icon Staff Team
For more details on upcoming events and anniversary celebrations, continue to stay connected via our newsletter!