Who I AM
NINA ENGEL MA in Conservation-Restoration
I bring over 20 years of honed expertise to the realm of conservation, specializing in the treatment of modern and contemporary paintings and sculptures. My journey in the art world commenced as a gilder more than two decades ago, setting the stage for an international career marked by continuous growth and refinement.
Over the past two decades, my path has woven through various prestigious art institutions and established conservation studios in both New York City and Switzerland. These experiences have been instrumental in elevating my craftsmanship, fine-tuning my skills, and deepening my expert knowledge in the art of treating modern and contemporary artworks.
With extensive experience in the vibrant art scene of New York City, I have cultivated an intimate understanding of the various stakeholders within the art market, along with their distinctive needs and expectations. My clients requests hold paramount significance, and I integrate them seamlessly wherever feasible. The pillars of my work are built on efficiency, transparent communication, and discretion. Your trust in me is well-placed.
Curriculum vitae
2023 - now Founder and Chief Conservator of Conservation Studio in Basel Switzerland. Co-lecturer on inpainting and airbrushing in conservation of modern and contemporary art for conservation students at Bern Academy of the Arts (HKB). On-site emergency conservator for GV Art Conservation at ART Basel Paris, France.
2002 - 2022 Conservator at Hoess Conservation GmbH in Zurich with a focus on the conservation of modern and contemporary paintings. Co-lecturer on inpainting and airbrushing in conservation of modern and contemporary art for conservation students at Bern Academy of the Arts (HKB).
2012 – 2020 Assistant Conservator and later Associate Conservator at Modern Art Conservation, NYC, subsequently Associate Conservator at GV Art Conservation, NYC with a focus on the conservation of modern and contemporary paintings. On-site emergency conservator at different art fairs such as ART Basel Miami Beach, Zona Maco, Freeze LA and NYC and The Armory Show. Co-lecturer at NYU‘s Conservation Center on different topics regarding the conservation of modern and contemporary art. Publications on these topics.
2006 - 2012 Project-related employment as Assistant Conservator at different institutions such as Kunstmuseum Luzern, Kunstmuseum Basel, Hochschule der Künste Bern, Kunstmuseum Bern, Restaurierungsatelier Willy Arn AG. Simultaneously Bachelor’s- and Master’s degree at Bern Academy of the Arts (HKB), Fachklasse für Konservierung und Restaurierung specializing in the conservation of paintings and sculptures.
2005 - 2006 Federal vocational baccalaureate at Gewerbeschule in Basel, Switzerland.
2000 - 2005 Employed in the fields of gilding, cultural heritage preservation and art conservation in Switzerland.
1997 - 2000 Three-year apprenticeship as a gilder at Kunsthandlung Victoria in Bern, Switzerland.
In my endeavors to conserve and treat artworks, my primary objective is the preservation of both their material essence and artistic narrative. I adhere to a philosophy of minimal intervention, carefully selecting materials and crafting strategies that are not only reversible but also enduring. My conservation methodologies align closely with the ethical guidelines upheld at both the national and international levels.
PHILOSOPHY
Conserving modern and contemporary artworks presents a myriad of ever-evolving challenges. I thrive on these challenges, embracing each conservation project with a passion for tailoring individual approaches that meet the unique requirements of each artwork. For me, the heart of conservation lies in the creative process of problem-solving - thinking outside of the box is an integral part of my day-to-day work. It's not just a job, it's a journey of artistic exploration and preservation.