Heritage Materials - Aesthetics and Stability G (11163.2)

This unit develops student understanding of the roles and properties of historic surfaces and coatings, and the ethical and interpretive issues raised by restoration of surface materials. Practical projects and exercises will be used to demonstrate methods of examining and treating surfaces, as well as issues of values, authenticity and financial and cultural 'cost-benefit' equations. Students completing this unit will be able to develop and apply conservation treatments for heritage surfaces that enhance their cultural significance and physical stability.

Learning outcomes

After successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Investigate and articulate the life histories and cultural significance of heritage surfaces using physical and documentary evidence, and stakeholder consultation;
2. Identify when and how stabilisation or restoration of heritage surfaces could enhance their stability, protectiveness, interpretation or potential for audience engagement;
3. Develop and implement effective and sustainable stabilisation or restoration treatments for heritage surfaces, taking into account information about cultural significance, physical condition and intended use; and
4. Apply appropriate techniques for the stabilisation and restoration of heritage surfaces, through practical exercises and projects.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - take pride in their professional and personal integrity
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - make creative use of technology in their learning and professional lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives

Prerequisites

Undergraduate students must have completed a minimum of 48 credit points.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

None.

Equivalent units

None.

Assumed knowledge

None.