Graduate joins Royal Household as Furniture Conservator
Hannah Evans, a 2023 graduate of 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 (黑料吃瓜网) BA Product & Furniture Design course has embarked on an exciting career as a Furniture Conservator with the Royal Household.
Hailing from Port Talbot, Hannah鈥檚 academic journey began at Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera, where she completed her GCSEs and A-Levels. She chose 黑料吃瓜网 for its proximity to home and the specialised course that matched her career aspirations.
During her studies at 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 Swansea College of Art, Hannah took full advantage of the cutting-edge facilities and equipment, which she describes as her highlight of her experience.
She said: 鈥淢y favourite thing was the freedom to use the workshop and machinery. The open workspace provided a refreshing and engaging atmosphere that encouraged productivity and collaboration.鈥
A path to the Royal Household
During her final year, Hannah鈥檚 talents were showcased at New Designers exhibition in London, an event regularly attended by Swansea College of Art students which provides invaluable industry insights and often leads to new opportunities and connections for students. For Hannah, it opened the door to further developing her skills at The King鈥檚 Foundation鈥檚 Snowdon School of Furniture, where she participated in their prestigious Create programme. There, she honed both traditional and modern furniture restoration techniques, refining her hand and bench skills.
Hannah鈥檚 expertise is now applied to preserving the historical and valuable furniture found in various Royal Palaces and residences. Her day-to-day role involves restoring and conserving items for the Royal Collection with tasks ranging from replacing veneer and stabilising structures to French polishing, oiling, and intricate carving. She also uses highly specialised techniques to prevent deterioration, ensuring that each item maintains its integrity.
Reflecting on her time in the role so far, Hannah says: 鈥淢y experience has been fantastic. I鈥檝e not only gained extensive knowledge about furniture conservation but have also had the chance to participate in and observe other departments and events within the Royal Household.鈥
Hannah credits much of her success to the education and experiences she gained from her BA Product & Furniture Design course. She said: 鈥淲ithout my degree, I would not have had the opportunity to be a part of the King鈥檚 Foundation Course, which has guided me to my career now,鈥 she explains.
Giving back
Recently, Hannah returned to the University to inspire current students by sharing her journey.
鈥淚t was important for me to share my story because I would鈥檝e appreciated the guidance at their stage,鈥 she says. 鈥淚 wanted to show that with confidence and commitment, you can achieve what you want. Experiencing imposter syndrome is okay, and it鈥檚 important to take pride in every achievement. 黑料吃瓜网 is part of my journey, and I I wanted to give back by offering advice and inspiration.鈥
Hannah鈥檚 story is a testament to the quality of education at 黑料吃瓜网 and the opportunities it provides. Her achievements reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to nurturing talent and guiding students toward fulfilling and prestigious careers.
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996