The International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper (JPC), organized by ICCROM and the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (TOBUNKEN), took place from 26 August to 13 September 2024. Ten participants engaged in an immersive exploration of Japanese paper conservation, a field recognized for bridging traditional Japanese practices with international conservation approaches.
For over 30 years, more than 230 professionals from 71 countries have benefited from this highly practical course, strengthening their skills and understanding of the materials, methods, and practices applied in conserving Japanese paper-based heritage.
The course also provides inspiration for adapting lessons learned in other types of heritage that participants work on within their own countries. This year's ten participants, representing Armenia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, enjoyed lectures, hands-on training sessions, and study tours. They met with active paper conservators, traditional papermakers, tool makers, museum professionals, private studios and other conservation experts across Japan, expanding their professional networks for future collaborations.
“The International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper 2024 provided an insight and deeper understanding of paper conservation and was a valuable experience for conservators to apply these knowledge and skills in their daily practice of safeguarding cultural heritage.” Lilit Bachachyan
Matenadaran- Mesrop Mashtots Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, Armenia.
“One valuable lesson from JPC was learning about the origins of paper from experts with years of experience in Japanese papermaking. The hands-on training made the course immersive, transforming it into an unmissable workshop.” Chanelle Mifsud Briffa
The Notarial Archives Foundation, Malta
The JPC course demonstrates the enduring and impactful partnership between TOBUNKEN and ICCROM. This collaboration provides valuable tools for global preservation efforts, impacting individual practitioners and strengthening the network of professionals dedicated to preserving paper heritage.
Stay tuned for the next edition in 2025!
