Event 3

Getty Villa Visit

Last Friday, the last day of this quarter, I visited the UCLA conservation lab in the Getty Villa. There are only 3 institutions that offer master of conservation program in the United States and UCLA is the only one in the west coast. The conservation lab is one of the best laboratories, if not the best, that I have ever visited.

Outside of the conservation lab

Front Door

Master student working on a mask

 The laboratory not only offers numerous advanced equipment for research, but also has a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Working at such a place must be fantastic experience. However, to get into the master's program is extremely challenging, candidates must have adequate knowledge in both science and art. For science aspect, basic knowledge in chemistry, material science and mathematics are required. Meanwhile, good art perception and multi-language ability are also needed. One student was working on repairing and conversation of a special mask when we enter the lab. People have to be extremely carefully when treating the relics because some of them are invaluable. 

Front door of Getty Museum

Glass flask made in Roman period

Cast Glass

After a lab tour, I also took a walk around the whole Getty Villa. I was very lucky because there was a art exhibition of glasses.  I am taking a ceramic lab class this quarter and I am surprised that people in the Roman period could master skills to produce such delicate pieces. Some of the products are still considered to be hard-to-produce in today's industry. I have to appreciate all the artists in the old days because they proved that there is never an impossible mission.