Our Story
Our Story
Alison Seed ACR: Preserving Artistry through Conservation
Alison Seed is a dedicated easel paintings conservator based in Hampshire, with a passion for safeguarding the legacy of art. Her journey in the world of art conservation is characterized by a rich tapestry of experiences and expertise.
A Journey of Expertise and Dedication
With a studio nestled in Hampshire and collaborations with private studios across the South East of England, Alison’s dedication to her craft extends far and wide. Her journey began with her postgraduate diploma in the Conservation of Easel Paintings from the Hamilton Kerr Institute, University of Cambridge, and she has worked on prestigious projects for national museums and institutes, as well as private owners of paintings.
A Wealth of Experience
Alison’s career has seen her working with private clients and esteemed institutions. She honed her skills during internships at the Guildhall Art Gallery in London and the Southampton City Art Gallery. Her expertise was further enriched during her tenure at the National Museums Northern Ireland, contributing to the refurbishment of the Ulster Museum.
Beyond Conservation
Alison’s dedication goes beyond the restoration of artworks. She has lent her expertise to data work concerning conservation and access for the National Trust. Additionally, she has conducted enlightening conservation training sessions for organizations like the Museums Association and Maidstone Museum, Kent.
A Broad Spectrum of Interests
Alison’s interests within conservation span a wide spectrum. From delving into artists’ methods and materials to the intricate world of gilding within artworks, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her projects. Her commitment to fostering public engagement with conservation reflects her dedication to preserving the beauty and history of art for generations to come.
Alison Seed’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to art conservation, ensuring that the artistry of the past endures into the future.

Exhibitions
- Spotlight on Conservation: Featuring recent projects by conservation interns at the Guildhall Art Gallery in 2009/10.
- Painting Gets Special Treatment: Showcasing Larry Wakefield’s ‘Untitled (Black with Yellow and White),’ circa 1970, at the Southampton City Art Gallery in 2009.
- Mission Impossible: Ethics and Choices in Conservation: An exploration of conservation ethics and choices at the Fitzwilliam Museum in 2004.
Education
- Accredited Member of The Institute of Conservation (ICON): Achieved in 2011, showcasing a commitment to excellence in the field.
- Postgraduate Diploma in the Conservation of Easel Paintings: Earned from the University of Cambridge, Hamilton Kerr Institute, spanning from 2004 to 2007.
- BA Joint Honours in Art History/English Studies: Completed at the University of Nottingham from 1998 to 2001.
Publications
2012
Co-authored 'Coronation Chair
Co-authored ‘Coronation Chair: The History of a Nation’ in The Decorative: Conservation and the Applied Arts, presented at the International Institute for Conservation Congress in Vienna, 2012.
2012
Contributed to 'In Artists’ Footsteps
Contributed to ‘In Artists’ Footsteps – The Reconstruction of Pigments and Paintings,’ a festschrift dedicated to Renate Woudhuysen, edited by L. Wrapson, J. Rose, and S. Bucklow, published by Archetype in 2012.
2012
Preparing a Copper Panel for Painting
Authored articles such as ‘Preparing a Copper Panel for Painting: A Late Sixteenth-Century Reconstruction’ and ‘Does the Mayerne Manuscript Reflect Contemporary Studio Practice?’ in the field of Communication & Education of Conservation.
2010
Historic Painting Techniques Training Day
Attended and participated in professional training events including ‘The Globe Theatre: Historic Painting Techniques Training Day’ in 2012, ‘Museums Association: Condition Reporting & Object Assessment Training Day’ at the Museum of London in 2010, and ‘Maidstone Museum: Handling and Packing Training Day’ in 2010.


Alison carried out the conservation of this painting in 2024. It was painted by Reginald Henry Lewis (1894-1973) and depicts the Queen’s Royal Regiment (West Surrey) marching past the Mayor of Guildford having been Granted the Freedom in 1946. It is on display in the Guildhall in Guildford as part of the Guildford Heritage Services Collections. The Queen’s Royal Surrey Regiment Combined Charities granted the money to conserve the painting.