Julia Brand – Laser Cleaning at the Victoria and Albert Museum: Summary of a one-year Fellowship

Abstract  Laser cleaning provides a highly controlled, non-invasive method for removing surface contaminants without damaging the underlying material, making it especially valuable in the preservation of sensitive cultural artifacts. Over the past year, the Victoria and Albert Museum’s conservation team has applied this approach across various materials and object types, such as plastics, micromosaics, ceramics, and paintings. This seminar will offer an overview of how laser cleaning works, its advantages, and the results obtained during the projects undertaken in 2024. It will also share practical insights, highlight challenges and benefits, and demonstrate the growing role of laser technology in the preservation of cultural heritage.  Bio  Julia is a postdoctoral research fellow specialising in the application of laser technologies for the conservation of cultural heritage materials. She completed her PhD at University of Canberra in 2023, focusing on the use of femtosecond pulse lasers to clean the granite cladding of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Following her doctoral studies, she undertook a laser cleaning fellowship at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where she worked closely with conservators to integrate laser cleaning into routine treatment practices. Julia has since returned to Canberra, where her research will explore the application of laser cleaning to Aboriginal rock art.  Acknowledgements  This fellowship was funded by Ed and Anne Teppo.  This presentation was accompanied by slides. To view the slides head to JuliaBrand_Presentation.pptx