5 Minutes With... Jochen Letsch

What is your current role at ICS and what does that entail?

I recently started the role of State Manager for Queensland after working for ICS in the role of Conservation Framer in the past. Up until now, there hasn’t been a permanent ICS presence in Queensland, but now I am based in Brisbane the ICS team can be so much more responsive and flexible to the needs of the state. I will be the first point of contact for our clients in QLD and it’s my role to coordinate jobs, whether big or small, with the full support of the wider ICS team.

How did you get into conservation and what are your specialties?

My background is in conservation or museum framing and the mounting of artworks. I have worked in this field since2003 when I started working for a specialised conservation framing business in Sydney.
Over the years, I ran my own company and have been contracted to many institutions to do specialised framing and mounting work. For the last three years I worked at the State Library of NSW in the exhibitions team; mounting, framing and expanding my knowledge and expertise in the making of book supports and the display requirements of books.

Everyone has a part of the job they are passionate about – their first love, what is yours?

I love our profession because it helps preserve and protect works for future generations. Our knowledge and expertise contribute to the enjoyment and learning of people to come.

This is particularly true of picture framing where, if done with the wrong materials, the items can be damaged and deteriorate. Damage to framed items is often caused by harmful or non-protective framing materials. On the other hand, a framing solution that is done with the right materials and mounting technique allows for items to be enjoyed, studied and preserved.

Interests outside of work?

I have a Diploma of Fine Arts and I have always been an almost compulsive maker of things.
Recently I have started making ceramics and I enjoy creating both functional as well as sculptural works.
I have a big love for nature and plants and am particularly interested in bonsai. Moving to Queensland, I have left my small bonsai collection behind to be looked after by fellow bonsai enthusiasts and I look forward to establishing a few trees here in Queensland adapted to the specific climate.
My other love is photography and the nature of my work would be described as moody and experimental rather than technical and precise.

Final thoughts

Queensland, Brisbane, is a very exciting new venture for me and I look forward to serving the state with my knowledge and the combined knowledge of the wider ICS team. I look forward to exploring, getting to know people and making it my new home.

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