Conservator of Furniture and Other Selected Objects

Performing adhesive transfers on one panel of a 10'x17' marquetry mural in Yellowstone National Park.

"The intent of a conservator’s effort is not to improve or alter the historic or personal record of the object but to preserve its integrity for future generations to appreciate and to study. I am practiced in the scientific approach and use skilled artistic hands to care for your collection." - John Kjelland

John Kjelland's Resume

In August of 2008, just prior to his untimely passing, John earned the credential of Professional Associate and Member of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. His specialized knowledge in wooden artifact conservation was gained through more than 30 years of practical experience in structural and coating stabilization. Conservation training was obtained at The Smithsonian Institution, National Park Service and The Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities. His research continued in large part by studying extensive selections of technical publications and manuscripts. John worked mostly with private collections but has also contracted with The Montana State Historical Society, The National Park Service, The Charles M. Russell Museum and other museums. The Mountain Plains Museum Association and The American Institute of Conservation have both published some of his written work on conservation. He was also commissioned to write a book on furniture care, addressing subjects that introduce conservation methods and materials to both restorers and custodians.

Training:

· Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and Education, Smithsonian Institution

· Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities

· Department of Conservation, Harpers Ferry Center, The National Park Service

· Williamsport Training Center, N.P.S.

Clientele:

· Northern States Conservation Center; St. Paul, MN

· The C.M. Russell Museum; Great Falls, MT

· The Valdez Museum; Valdez, AK

· The Montana State Historical Society

· Museum of the Rockies; MSU, Bozeman, MT

· Grant Kohrs Ranch; NHS, Deerlodge, MT

· Brinkeroff Lodge (a presidential retreat); Grand Teton National Park, WY

· Fort Scott National Historic Site; Fort Scott, KS

· Yellowstone National Park; WY

· Private Collections

Publications:

· Mountain Plains Museum Association

· American Institute for Conservation, Wooden Object Group Post Prints

· Commissioned to begin a book on furniture conservation

Yellowstone National Park conservation project (1Mb Adobe file)

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Newspaper Articles:

The Missoulian, Missoula, Montana

The Valdez Star, Valdez, Alaska