Penny Byrne is an objects conservator specialising in ceramics and glass, with over 20 years’ experience working across museum, gallery, and private contexts. She provides conservation and restoration services for culturally significant and technically complex objects, including public art and built heritage ceramics, ranging from antique and archaeological material through to mid-century design and contemporary art. She is also experienced in the treatment of glass and mixed-media works, including large-scale and materially challenging objects.
Her work is grounded in a detailed understanding of ceramic and glass materials, enabling her to develop tailored, durable treatment approaches. She is experienced in managing large multi-stage conservation projects and works collaboratively with institutions, heritage professionals, artists, and specialist trades.
Services
- Condition assessments and reporting
- Conservation and restoration treatments
- Treatment proposals and project scoping
- Preventive conservation advice
- Materials analysis and technical investigation
- Conservation of large-scale and outdoor ceramic works
Approach
Her approach combines technical rigour with a sensitivity to cultural and historical context. Each project is assessed individually, with treatment decisions guided by the significance of the object, its condition, and its intended future use.
Professional affiliations
Penny is an Accredited Professional Member of the Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Material (AICCM) and adheres to its Code of Ethics and Practice. She is also an Accredited Professional Member of the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA)
Clients
Penny works with major public collections, regional galleries, local government, and private collectors across Australia.