This course is designed to acquaint students with observation and examination techniques for works of art, artifacts, and decorative art objects; give them an understanding of the history of artist materials and methods; and familiarize them with the ethics and procedures of conservation. This is not a conservation training course but is structured to provide a broader awareness for those who are planning careers involving work with cultural objects. Format: slide presentations, lectures, gallery talks, hands-on opportunities, technical examinations, and group discussions. Sessions will be held at the Williamstown Art Conservation Center, Williams College, Clark Art Institute, and the Governor A. Nelson Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Art Collection in New York. Examination questions may be formulated from exhibitions at these locations. Evaluation will be based on six exams. Exam scores will be weighed in proportion to the number of sessions covered by the exam (e.g., the paintings exam, derived from six sessions in the course, will count as 25% of the final grade). There is no overall final exam. Some exams may be designated "open book"; however, all work should be a student's individual effort.