Heather Becker, CEO
Staff member since 1989, owner since 2003
Founder Barry Bauman, and CEO Heather Becker
This year, The Conservation Center celebrated its 40th anniversary. This milestone is a notable moment for reflection. What we do every day at The Center revolves around fine-tuning our practice of living a life perfecting our process within our field. This company is a living, breathing entity that brings us tremendous pride. The pride is rooted in the foundational principles and ethics that guide our daily decisions, actions, and processes.
We all ask ourselves what the most pivotal moments in our lives have been. At the start of my art career, why would I take on the risk in 2003 to buy a company at age 36 with no financial foundation behind me? Well, I knew this company was truly special, and the founder, Barry Bauman, gave me the tremendous opportunity to carry this company forward. I discovered the significance of mentorship during this period, which has remained always and forever influential. Most importantly, I had a strong work ethic and believed in my dreams. Since joining the company in 1989, I had absorbed a wealth of knowledge, and I decided to take the daring plunge and buy this company with an SBA loan – because I believed in its mission.
The risk of what I was diving into was life-changing, but I knew taking that leap of faith required finding its meaning. Why did I want to own this company? I had a vision about where to take it, and I knew it was about a belief in myself coalescing with a wonder for creating something extraordinary. Somehow, I knew the possibilities of what we could collectively create as a team would be awesome. I then discovered when you completely immerse yourself in a commitment like this, you learn how to accelerate your talent. You learn how to navigate, turning a vision into a formed path. That is when the doors to The Center became symbolic because they represent what it means to find a path worth fighting for and never giving up. You must believe in your vision, for your eyes are the doors to creating something exceptional and rare.
There are critical moments when you face a commitment to something special and long-term. At your core, you know. I have always been blessed and knew my meaning as an artist, writer, and entrepreneur, which is such a beautiful thing. Thirty-four years in, I ask myself, what remains true? Find peace in the process of your dharma, hard work, and paradise presents itself. We live and operate at The Center in a world in which most don't get to exist. We love what we do; we come to work and create, develop, and use intuition and passion. What we do, preserving art and history, is a daily act we believe in as a mantra. We speak, breathe, live, and love it. We are The Conservation Center.
We all wake up each day and come to work dedicated to this company's mission, but really, it's more like a family converging and sharing their experiences. So many of us have been here for 10, 15, or 20+ years, and we are blessed with loving what we do. I personally want to thank our team and dedicated clients with grace and appreciation. It is also important to share gratitude for The Center's founder, Barry Bauman, his wife, my dear friend Mary Bourke-Bauman, and their two children, Ian and Jeffrey. Marshall Field V has also been instrumental, helping to found and support this extraordinary enterprise since the beginning, as well as our long-dedicated Advisory Board Members who give their time and expertise to The Center. Collectively, we remain a powerful force impassioned by our daily love for what we do.
The Conservation Center has become a fantastic living entity, thriving through the hands and eyes of those talented team members who work here. I am honored to share remarks and stories from some of the team members below - a representation of the talented and exceptional people who believe in their purpose, which forms our collective purpose here at The Conservation Center.
May we welcome a peaceful 2024 in reflection and create purpose for our future.
Sincerely,
Heather Becker, CEO
Laura Jagger, CFOO
Staff member since 2003
I started working as a temporary receptionist at The Center in 2003, just weeks after Heather purchased the company. With no art or art history background, I did not realize what a special organization I had joined. A few months later I was hired on as the administrative assistant, continuing to answer phones and writing condition and treatment reports. After taking art history classes at the Art Institute, I started working with clients and began to realize what an extraordinary company I was working for. We have incredible clients who are very passionate about their collections.
A few years later I took on bookkeeping and HR, and then a few years after that accounting and operations. In the past several years, I have been working closely with the conservation departments. One of my favorite parts about working at a small organization is being able to be involved in and understand many components of how the business runs. You genuinely appreciate your colleagues and the specialized work that each of them does.
Reflecting on my time at an organization like The Center, I have formed meaningful connections with my colleagues, and the camaraderie with the team has been integral to my experience. I am immensely grateful for the support, guidance, and opportunities I have had working closely with Heather and our Advisory Board members. I am thankful to be a part of The Conservation Center family and look forward to many more years of our shared success.
Michael Young, Senior Paintings Conservator
staff member since 2004
The stereotypical image of a conservator is of a person sitting in front of an easel with a tiny brush dabbing minute dots of color onto a painting. To be honest, that scene plays itself out in real life quite often, but touching up damaged paintings is a far cry from what painting conservation is. An important aspect of our job is restretching paintings, which can sometimes be much more physically demanding than one might think.
One of the most memorable treatments I was a part of led The Conservation Center to work with two different small museums that had to contend with an exceptionally large canvas. The painting in question is a contemporary work that measures roughly nine feet high by sixteen feet wide and was part of a travelling exhibition. Paintings that large cannot be shipped safely without being removed from their stretcher frame and rolled onto a tube. Subsequently, these small museums did not have personnel on staff with the training to deal with unstretching or restretching such a large canvas. The exhibition of this painting lasted about one year at each museum, and we had to travel twice to each location, first to stretch the artwork and then unstretch and re-roll the painting in order for it to be able to move on to the next venue. Managing a painting that large is strenuous work that requires you to operate from your knees on the floor. Projects like that show that painting conservation requires a wide range of abilities that range beyond just facility with a paintbrush.
Josh McCauley, Senior Conservator of Objects and Frames
staff member since 2006
As a conservation specialist, I have the opportunity to care for works of art, cultural heritage, and sentimental items that our clients bring to The Conservation Center. It is a great honor to be trusted with the treatment of such important works. The challenges and variety of pieces that come to the lab are endless and create a unique work environment that truly is stimulating. One of the special aspects of working at The Conservation Center is the diversity of expertise housed in one building. There have been countless times that I’ve met with my colleagues to discuss a particular treatment plan and find a proper solution to the problem. I will be starting my 19th year as a conservator for The Conservation Center in 2024, and look forward to the upcoming treatments, as well as the pieces that will arrive in lab for future treatments. I thank our clients for trusting The Conservation Center to treat their cherished pieces and look forward to continuing new and existing relationships.
Amber Schabdach, Senior Paintings Conservator
staff member since 2006
Being in the same conservation company for many years has the perks of getting to really know a client's tastes and expectations. We have a repeat client that collects amazing pulp magazine paintings that have not always been cared for in a kind manner. I absolutely love working on these, as the subject matter is fun, colorful and completely different than your average painting. They challenge me in treatment as well, seeing as they often are not painted in a manner that was meant to last, as they were only painted to make a copy of them for a magazine cover. It is always a satisfying treatment to see these before and after, and to revive a little piece of cultural history.
Carissa Tonner, Marketing and Communications
staff member since 2006
I started working at The Center in 2006 through an internship during my final year at Roosevelt University, earning my bachelor's in Art History. I wasn't entirely sure what I would do with my degree, but I couldn't envision myself in a gallery or museum. The Conservation Center was suggested to me by my advisor, Susan Weininger, who had worked with Heather on preserving New Deal artwork in Chicago. Immediately, I was in. I'm not sure why I was so confident in the choice, but as I write this nearly 18 years after that internship started, I suppose my instincts were correct.
When I talk about my perspective on art history as a subject, I usually explain that I'm less interested in art's history but rather most interested in the history of our cultures and societies through art: what gets made, purchased, exhibited, preserved - and why. I've always been curious about why people like what they like, why they make what they make, and how what survives impacts our cultural stories. So it would seem fitting that for many of the past 18 years, I have been responsible for writing the articles we share each month through our newsletter that we launched in 2007, detailing not just the conservation treatment of artwork but, whenever I can, sharing the story of the object itself - its importance, context, peculiarities and significance to whoever treasures it, whether that be a museum full of visitors, or a single person.
In fact, I can still remember the very first piece of artwork I inventoried at The Center all those years ago - an 1834 map of the United States. It was the first of thousands of items I have watched come through The Center's doors, each with its own story. I've heard why owners cherish their artworks, seeking conservation to continue their legacy. Treating these pieces became intertwined with our own narratives - as conservators, historians, and cultural preservationists. Over time, listening to countless stories, I've realized that art's allure isn't just about looks; it's about the stories it brings into our lives. Each preserved artwork, each shared story, reinforces my belief in the profound link between art and our shared human experiences.
Amanda maddern, Senior Registrar
staff member since 2008
I’ve always been interested in history as well as art, and I’m lucky to work for an organization where these two subjects converge. I get to see artwork and artifacts from all over the world, and to be a part of each item’s history is incredibly special. I’m grateful to work alongside an especially talented group of people that have a common passion for conservation. I’ve made some lasting friendships and awesome memories over the years, and I’m excited to see what else there is to come!
Paul Kirk, Director of Transportation and Installation
staff member since 2008
I've worked for The Conservation Center longer than anywhere else in my career. I believe this is not only attributed to my interest in the work but my coworkers that I work with every day. A lot of these coworkers have become some of my closest friends and being able to work alongside your friends makes all the difference. Together we have seen many incredible works of art not only here in Chicago but all over the country. Some days are long, and others are challenging however, facing these challenges with the experienced and talented staff of The Conservation Center makes these situations fulfilling and rewarding.
Sean Roach, Senior Art Handler
staff member since 2008
I started working at the Center in 2008 and after the first year of learning my place on the shipping team, I felt like I found my home. From that point on, because of Paul Kirk's leadership, it's felt like a family in the shipping department ever since. Lastly, because of my role at The Conservation Center I have a great many travel memories, experiences, stories and friendships that you couldn't put a price on and I'm thankful for that. Shout out to the Old School Crew!
Steve Ryan, Senior Conservator of Furniture
staff member since 2011
I began working at the conservation center in 2011. I have worked in three other conservation labs over my career. I would say, what I enjoy most about my role within this company is working with a group of likeminded people who are passionate about the work we are doing here. Some of us are conservators, others are involved in administration roles and art handling, however we all share a common goal, to provide our clients with a museum level of conservation services. Within this profession there are often times challenging situations and having people willing to collaborate and share their own knowledge and experience whenever helpful has always been something I’ve been able to rely on. I’d like to thank all my work colleagues for the cooperation you’ve given me these many years.
Alfredo Garcia, Facilities Manager and Senior Art Handler
staff member since 2012
Ten years ago I embarked on my path as an art handler at The Conservation Center. This trajectory would allow me to discover cities and towns across the United States where I fomented my role as a sort of guardian of cultural treasures. In my capacity as a senior art handler I am delicately caring for the integrity of objects while learning about various artforms and the many reasons why they retain their significance over time. My commitment to the longevity of artistic heritage has grown profoundly and each interaction with an artwork is an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing narrative of our shared cultural history. More importantly, by being part of this amazing team, I've also found a family of likeminded people who share my passion about the world around us and the art that gives meaning and fulfillment to our lives.
Mike Simi, Digital Production and Media Director
staff member since 2013
Anyone familiar with art conservation understands documenting each project's treatment is crucial. It not only lays a foundation for future conservators, but it also plays a key role in telling the artwork’s story and safeguarding its legacy. Time certainly flies, and I can hardly believe it’s been over ten years with The Center. I often say I'm in a unique position to witness every artwork's journey. Each piece undergoes a meticulous process of intake, treatment, and final photography. Being involved in documenting these transformations, from the initial stages through the conservator's careful work, to the final imaging, is immensely fulfilling. I am fortunate to collaborate daily with such a highly skilled and creative team, contributing to the preservation and celebration of these artistic treasures. Every day, I learn something new from the best conservation team in the business.
Bozena Szymanski, Senior Conservator of Works on Paper
staff member since 2014
I have been associated with The Conservation Center for almost 25 years. I was hired by Barry Bauman in 1998, and from the beginning, it has been a wonderful experience. I met a lot of great people and learned a lot. I left The Conservation Center due to family reasons, but in 2014, an opportunity presented itself to come back to the company. Remembering my pleasant experiences while working there in the past, I jumped at the opportunity. From day one, I have not been disappointed. Again, I am surrounded by wonderful people who are also excellent professionals in their fields. I was met with new challenges like becoming the head of the Paper Department, traveling to different places, and working on-site, but working alongside my colleagues in various locations allowed me to learn a little bit more about their jobs and each other. It has been a great pleasure working at The Conservation Center and being challenged professionally while working in a company of remarkable people.
Jesús Mejia, Conservation Services Director
staff member since 2014
In my time at The Conservation Center, I've been lucky to work with an incredible team. We've achieved milestones, formed a close-knit community, and grown together. The excitement of going to work lies in facing each day's adventures alongside a host of talented and brilliant people—many of whom have dedicated decades to their craft. As an artist, it's invigorating to be exposed to that level of careful and devoted work on the various kinds of art we’ve encountered throughout the years.
Rebecca Vodehnal, Associate Paintings Conservator
staff member since 2016
When I tell people what I do for a living, I invariably get asked a variation of the same question. Do you have a favorite painting you have worked on? Instead of answering this question, I usually deflect with a discussion about what I am currently treating. Although it seems like a simple question, it is surprisingly complicated. Is a piece my favorite based on the fact it is by an artist I love or is it a favorite because of the treatment? Is it my favorite because the subject is beautiful or compelling or because of the story behind the art? When I was asked to write something for the 40th anniversary of The Conservation Center, I decided to actually think about this question. I narrowed it down to two pieces I have treated at The Center. The first painting I choose because it is by a favorite artist. The painting was a winter scene by Camille Pissarro. I have always found Pissarro’s winter landscapes magical. They are filled with color. Blues, greens and violets cover the landscape rather than just white. The piece I treated at the Center had a discolored varnish that hid these colors leaving everything a muddy yellow. Removing the discolored varnish revealed its delicate colors and for a little while, sitting at my easel, I was able to spend my time immersed in Pissarro’s winter. The second piece I chose was a painting by Arturo Ricci depicting a woman writing a letter while an older man looks over her shoulder. The painting was so highly detailed that you could see the dirt under the women’s fingernails. It arrived at The Center in pieces, covered in soot, with flaking paint, brittle and water damaged. This piece was a favorite because of how challenging it was to treat. It was satisfying to take something that was almost destroyed and return it to a condition that could be displayed in the owner's home. Taking this time to think back over all the pieces I have treated at The Center, also reminds me of the painting that was slashed by a sabre during a battle or the mural that was hidden behind drywall in a garage. So, even though I picked two favorites today, my answer may be different tomorrow.
Maria Ochalek, Vice President of Client Services
staff member since 2016
I have a vivid memory from one of my first days at The Conservation Center – I was walking through the lab and saw a Norman Rockwell painting in treatment. One of our conservators was carefully consolidating cracks in the painting by slowly injecting conservation adhesive into them with a syringe. It sounds cliché, but seeing the piece being treated like this to me felt like walking in on an important surgery. The item was open, vulnerable, and in need of help – but being carefully cared for in the best of hands. I was able to witness the piece in a state that many people in this world never see artwork. The prominence of the art and the meticulous attention our conservator was giving it struck me. I was in awe of the fact that on a daily basis I could see pieces like this being carefully cared for in such an intimate way.
As the years have gone on, the normal stresses of the job have come in – everyone in any industry has them. On days when it feels like a lot, I bring myself back to that moment and the reason why we exist and do what we do. I walk myself back to that day when I saw the Rockwell and realized I now had the opportunity to witness such treatments any time I’d like. Most people view artwork on the white walls of a museum or – if they are lucky – inside their own homes or in the homes or their friends. But in these locations, the art is displayed formally, all dressed up. At The Center, the art comes to us broken; it’s stripped down and opened up. We are tasked with putting it back together again so the piece can be viewed formally by others.
Working in the industry we are in can be challenging in many ways. No two pieces or projects are the same. Every single work of art is different and requires a specific approach – streamlining is impossible. I have dedicated myself to accepting this and learning to even appreciate it. The challenges are my favorite part about working here. They teach us something new every day about artwork but also about ourselves. The art needs us. And in an almost bigger way, we need the art too.
Rob Kleeman, Senior Conservator of Furniture
staff member since 2017
I have worked in the field since 1976 and have been with The Conservation Center going on 7 years. In all of the places I have worked in the last 47 years The Center is by far the most dynamic, challenging, and supportive. Surrounded by staff with such diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, doing my “job” has never been more fulfilling.
"Every work of art and artifact carries with it the voices and the stories of generations past. We should make every effort to preserve these stories in our care and to pass these voices on to the generations to follow."
Preservation, within that framework is the reason for the passion and the inspiration for the start of every day. There have been many moments in my time at the Center when I have been honestly grateful for the opportunity to contribute my abilities to that task.
Tabitha Amoroso, Managing Director - Head of Client Services
staff member since 2017
Every day at The Conservation Center brings something new and exciting. Fueled by a profound passion, I am dedicated to assisting collectors, museums, galleries, and art enthusiasts from all backgrounds in preserving not only fine art, antiques, and heirlooms but also the stories and history that accompany each object. Witnessing the meticulous work of our conservators day in and day out leaves me in awe, and I take great joy in sharing their remarkable efforts with all of The Center’s clients.
Scott Dietrich, Senior Conservation Framer
staff member since 2019
Every day I come to work I see challenging new projects, world class art, and a great team of colleagues. I am grateful for all that The Conservation Center has allowed me to learn and be a part of over the last five years. I look forward to working with more of the incredible art and objects we have the privilege of caring for and seeing what I can learn each and every day I come to work. Cheers to another 40 years for The Conservation Center!
A special note:
Mary Bourke-Bauman, wife of founder Barry Bauman (1948 - 2022)
Heather,
It is wonderful to know that the company Barry started forty years ago is still here thanks to your guidance and efforts. Congratulations to you and all the staff of The Conservation Center on the 40th anniversary.
I recall the day Barry went to meet Marshall Field for lunch and presented the idea of the Center. Barry was nervous but excited and we both laughed because he was purposely wearing his "lucky tie". Marshall said yes to the idea and the rest is history.
Barry continued to wear his lucky tie for years occasionally in-painting on it to hide the stains until I forced him to retire the poor thing but it still hangs to this day in the place of honor on his tie rack.
I wish all the best for you in this New Year and for many years to come.
Congrats again,
Mary
Heather Becker, Barry Bauman and Mary Bourke-Bauman at The Conservation Center in 2013
