Organizer
Partners
- ICCROM
- Finnish Heritage Agency
- Aalto University
- City of Jyväskylä
About the Course
The International Course on Conservation of Modern Architecture– MODERNISM IN FLUX is a further education course for mid-career professionals working with modern heritage.
The main objective is to reinforce the capacity of specialists working in the field of conservation of modern architecture. The course activities enable the participants to gain knowledge and new skills, and to understand the values, prerequisites of use and conservation methods of modern architecture from a theoretical and practical basis.
Course Methodology
The theme MODERNISM IN FLUX is explored from three perspectives: CONSERVATION, SUSTAINABILITY, and RE-USE. In addition to cultural values, the course emphasizes the ecological, social and economic role of cultural heritage in the cultural and creative sectors, the design and construction industries, and local and regional development.
The course addresses a broad range of contemporary challenges in modern heritage conservation, covering theoretical and methodological approaches as well as the technical aspects of material conservation.
Course Structure
The course consists of an online introductory module and three onsite modules in Finland at three masterpieces of modern architecture by Alvar Aalto (1898-1976): Studio Aalto in Helsinki (1955), Aalto University in Espoo (1964-69) and Säynätsalo Town Hall in Jyväskylä (1952).
These sites, along with additional case studies, serve as key references for illustrating the course’s themes and providing a broader perspective on modern architectural conservation.
The online module consists of three two-hour sessions, with recordings available later on ICCROM’s online learning platform. The on-site activities include a 7-day programme in Finland featuring lectures, discussions, workshops and site visits. Attendance in both the online and on-site components is mandatory for all accepted participants. A full, detailed course program will be provided to selected applicants.
Module Breakdown
- Introductory module (online): Introduction to the Conservation of Modern Heritage.
- Module 1 (on-site, Studio Aalto, Helsinki): CONSERVATION: Values and conservation methods of modern architecture.
- Module 2 (on-site, Aalto University, Espoo): SUSTAINABILITY: Material, technical, and structural sustainability, as well as broader cultural and theoretical perspectives.
- Module 3 (on-site, Säynätsalo Town Hall, Jyväskylä): RE-USE: Adaptive reuse from the perspectives of architectural preservation, ownership, users, and social and cultural sustainability.
Course dates
1 March 2026 - 31 May 2026: Online module
7 June 2026 - 14 June 2026: On-site modules in Finland
Participants
MARC2026 is targeted for mid-career professionals with at least three years of experience in working with conservation issues. Suitable backgrounds are for example architects, engineers, conservators, art historians, policymakers, site owners, etc. A maximum of 25 participants will be selected. Preference will be given to applicants from ICCROM Member States who hold positions that enable them to share and disseminate the skills and knowledge gained during the course.
Lecturers
The course is taught by recognized experts in modern architectural conservation, each bringing diverse backgrounds and professional experience.
Language
The course's working language is English. Proficiency in both spoken and written English is essential.
Couse fee
The course fee is € 1.200 (incl. Finnish VAT 25,5%). Fee includes:
- Online module
- On-site modules 1-3
- Course materials
- Transportation between module locations and other site visits during the on-site period in Finland
- One-night accommodation in Jyväskylä during module 3
- Opening and final dinner
- Coffee breaks on lecture days
Travel, accommodation, and living expenses
Participants are responsible for their own travel costs to and from Helsinki, possible visa applications, accommodation in Helsinki, and personal expenses (meals, public transportation, etc.), except for the inclusions mentioned above. Participants should budget a minimum of 700 EUR for estimated additional costs for accommodation and meals during the in-person course.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to seek financial support from institutions such as their employers, government agencies, or funding organizations. A limited number of scholarships may be available depending on funding.
Application process
How to apply? Please fill out the ICCROM online application form and upload the following documents in English:
- Curriculum vitae (pdf, doc, docx, max 5 MB)
- A brief motivation letter answering questions as: Why you are applying for this course? What do you hope to learn? How will it benefit your professional development and institution? (max 2 pages, allowed formats: pdf, doc, docx, max 5 MB)
Contact information
For further details, please contact: Nina Heikkonen, Alvar Aalto Foundation, nina.heikkonen@alvaraalto.fi