Agents of Deterioration: Caring for Archive and Museum Collections
1:00 pm, Thursday 13th August 2026
Location: The Keep
Tickets: Free, booking essential
Mould, pests, light, poor handling, and unsuitable storage conditions can all cause damage to archive and museum collections. But what are the biggest risks to LGBTQ+ heritage materials, and how can we help preserve them for future generations?
Join Queer Heritage South for a hands-on training session led by specialist conservator Amy Junker-Heslip, exploring the key agents of deterioration and the practical steps we can take to care for collections.
This introductory session is suitable for anyone who is interested in collections, with no prior experience required. The session will include:
- A tour of The Keep Archive centre, including a behind-the-scenes look at the stores where archives are housed.
- Interactive games and activities to explore the main agents of deterioration that affect collections.
- Practical tips for safely handling a range of archive and museum materials, including LGBTQ+ collections held at The Keep
- Hands-on experience packing, and caring for collections to help ensure their long-term preservation.
Tickets are free to book but are limited. If you can no longer attend the event, please contact us.
Amy (she/her) is an Accredited Paper Conservator with over 20 years of professional experience in the museum sector. She worked in London at a variety of institutions (British Library, British Museum, Courtauld, Tate, Wellcome) and currently works in Brighton. Alongside her work as a paper conservator. Amy is carrying out a CHASE funded collaborative PhD with Brighton & Hove Museums and the University of Sussex. Her research is focused on the archives of Chinese export wallpapers from the Royal Pavilion, Brighton. Amy enjoys teaching and has taught a variety of classes with West Dean College, University of Brighton and University of Sussex.
Getting to The Keep:
The Keep is easily accessed by the number 25 bus, stopping at BACA, or via a train to Falmer followed by a 10 minute walk. There is also a car park available.
Travel:
We can provide bus tickets to get to the Keep, please let us know in advance. A group will travel together leaving from the Old Courthouse (opposite Brighton Dome) at 12:15, please indicate when you book.
Accessibility:
The Keep has level access throughout, all activities will be on the ground floor. An accessible toilet is available. If you have any access requirements, please contact archive@marlboroughproductions.org.uk.
Queer Heritage South; powered by Marlborough Productions. Made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Image credit: Lillian Watson.
Captured during one of our free and open-to-all Collective Community Sessions.
