Short Description
The CollAsia course on “Observation, Documentation, and Diagnosis of Collections” will provide a space for participants to explore skills drawing from a critical thinking approach and building on basic notions required to work with collections. At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Increase awareness on how to apply structured documentation methods, including visual and digital tools.
- Understand the basis for scientific principles of collections care, identifying alteration and deterioration phenomena.
- Contextualize objects, practices, and behaviours towards resilient practices for conservation.
- Employ effective methods to understand locally available resources and traditional practices.
This three-week course will feature interactive lectures, hands-on workshops, practical exercises, and field visits led by an interdisciplinary and multicultural team. Emphasis will be placed on integrating scientific principles with traditional knowledge and materials. Participants will engage in critical group discussions, present relevant case studies from their professional experiences, and develop a project proposal aimed at enhancing sustainable collection care within their institutions.
The course will take place across two main venues: The State Art Museum of Uzbekistan in Tashkent and The State Musem of Arts of Karakalpakstan, named after I.V. Savitsky, in Nukus. In addition, study trips to other key cities, cultural institutions, and sites across Uzbekistan will be organized during the training programme.
Eligibility
The course will host up to 30 participants. Eligible applicants should have at least three years of experience working with heritage collections, including but not limited to scientists, conservators, restorers, archaeologists, architects, collection managers, curators, museum educators, and other related professionals.
Submission Requirements
- Portrait photo (formats: jpg, jpeg, png, tif, tiff; max. 5 MB)
- Official endorsement letter (formats: pdf, doc, docx, jpg, jpeg, png, tif, tiff; max. 5 MB)
- Curriculum Vitae (formats: pdf, doc, docx; max. 5 MB)
- Brief Report (around 500 words) answering the following exploratory questions:
- “How is observation, documentation, and diagnosis practiced in your context?” “How do sustainability and tradition play a role in your work or that of your institution?” (formats: pdf, doc, docx; max. 5 MB)
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected participants will not be required to pay course fees. Scholarships will cover round-trip travel, accommodation, and meals in Uzbekistan for the duration of the course. Priority will be given to candidates from ICCROM Member States. Please note that visa fees and any other personal expenses will be the responsibility of the selected participants or their institutions.
Entry Fee
None
Location
Uzbekistan
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 24 August 2025
Website Link: https://www.iccrom.org/courses/collasia-2025-observation-documentation-and-diagnosis-collections%C2%A0
