Team

Frans Jeurissen

Director

f.jeurissen@sral.nl Frans Jeurissen

Dr. Lydia Beerkens

Director / Senior conservator of modern and contemporary art

Since 2021, I have served as Director at SRAL, alongside my role as Senior Conservator of Modern Art. Leading SRAL in shaping its content and rejuvenating our team has been a truly rewarding task. Our strength lies in the ability of our specialists to collaborate intensively, often beyond their own fields of expertise. Expanding our team with a new generation of conservators is crucial for safeguarding our knowledge and ensuring continuity for SRAL's future. The conservation of modern art raises exciting questions, such as, "Why should modern art be restored already?" and "Why doesn’t the artist repair it themselves?" Each project is full of surprises. What materials were used? What was the artist’s intention? Artist interviews often yield unexpected insights, making every restoration a unique experience. Beyond my work at SRAL, I am also active in the church council of the Basilica of Our Lady in Maastricht. While many are familiar with the candle chapel of 'Maria Sterre-der-Zee,' the Treasury of the 'Slevrouwe' is a lesser-known gem of the city. I dedicate my expertise, religious commitment, and heritage connections to preserving the church's treasures, its rich interior, and its precious reliquaries. l.beerkens@sral.nl Dr. Lydia Beerkens

Alexandra Taylor

Junior conservator paintings

I was that barefoot child, roaming the garden by day, peering through a telescope at night, and dismantling anything I could find to understand how it worked. Not much has changed- except, perhaps, my height. Dreams of becoming a khaki-clad archaeologist were quickly abandoned when I realized my pale Scottish skin wouldn’t endure the Egyptian sun. Instead, I channelled my curiosity for culture, research, and discovery into paintings conservation. Despite mum’s hopes for a career closer to home, I’ve ended up halfway around the world. If you tunnelled straight down from Maastricht, you’d emerge in Waitangi, Chatham Islands - far closer to where I grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, than to my current home at SRAL.* Fuelled by caffeine and curiosity, I earned my Fine Arts degree (Honours) and double-majored in Ancient History and English at the University of Auckland. I then braved my inherent nemesis – Australia – to study Cultural Materials Conservation at the University of Melbourne. Motivated by my thesis on authentication, I took an unexpected turn and earned a grant to study Art Crime with ARCA in Umbria, Italy. Since graduating in 2019, I’ve been living the dream as a conservator of paintings across Europe and the UK. Now based in Limburg – where the Netherlands defies its “pancake” reputation with actual rolling hills – I spend my free time exploring them on my Boardman race bike, my two-wheeled companion. I couldn’t ask for more: adventure at my fingertips, a brilliant team at my side, an inspiring boss to lead the way, and challenging, satisfying projects that keep my passion alive. * (Well, technically the antipode of Maastricht is approximately 50.8° S, 5.7° E, which places us in the southern Atlantic Ocean, not directly in the Chatham Islands. Geographically incorrect, but the Islands provide a close, more vivid point of comparison.) a.taylor@sral.nl

Arnold Truyen

Senior conservator sculptures and painted objects/ X-ray specialist

During my studies at St. Lucas in Boxtel, I had the opportunity to intern in the restoration of 16th-century vault paintings in the presbytery of St. Jan Church in Den Bosch. It was during this time that I realized I wanted to become a conservator. In the 1980s – long before some of my colleagues were even born – I expanded my knowledge and experience through internships in Bonn, Brussels, and Nuremberg. While my initial focus was on murals, my passion truly emerged after being introduced to the conservation of polychrome sculptures and painted objects. In the autumn of 1987, I began working in the conservation studio located in one of the buildings of the Rolduc monastery in Kerkrade. By 1990, I played a foundational role in the establishment of the post-graduate training program for conservatorrs, the first of its kind in The Netherlands, and also became qualified as an X-ray specialist. Throughout my career, I have witnessed and experienced all the transformations within SRAL, and today I take great pride in working with this dynamic and talented young team. a.truyen@sral.nl Arnold Truyen

Ausrine Dambrauskaite

Conservator sculptures and painted objects

My name is Aušrinė, and I am the only Lithuanian conservator specializing in polychromy at SRAL. My journey in this profession began with diverse training experiences, ranging from preserving archaeological finds to restoring art deco furniture. My education at the Vilnius Academy of Arts and the Cologne Institute for Conservation Sciences provided me with a solid foundation in paint analysis and restoration techniques. After earning my master’s degree, I discovered my niche at SRAL, where I am continually challenged and inspired by the variety of objects I work with. Interestingly, conservation is not my first career; I am also a qualified elementary school teacher. a.dambrauskaite@sral.nl Ausrine Dambrauskaite

Bascha Stabik

Head of studios/ senior conservator paintings

As a child, my father regularly took me to art museums in the German Ruhr region, where my love for art was nurtured. At the age of twelve, I became friends with an art dealer who introduced me to his conservator a few years later. From that moment on, I was captivated; I wanted to become a restorer. Having worked at SRAL for 17 years, I remain fascinated by the multifaceted aspects of restoring works of art. The interplay between the conservation and restoration of paintings and their historic interior spaces particularly appeals to me. It is not only the opportunity to look behind the scenes that excites me but also the practical and substantive involvement in the restoration process. Each experience remains special as I have the privilege of getting close to these beautiful works of art and embarking on a search for their history in order to make the best choices for their future preservation. In addition to my role as a conservator, I also serve as a studio coordinator for Fine Art. Together with a motivated team, I work on challenging projects, and we approach each task with great enthusiasm and joy, both in the studio and on location. b.stabik@sral.nl Bascha Stabik

Daniëlle Stobbe

Junior conservator historic interiors

What do you want to be when you grow up? Over the years my answer to this question changed from being a teacher to being a hotel owner, and everything in between. Never would I have guessed that I would end up being a conservator and it was purely accidental that I discovered the studies of conservation and restoration. I guess faith (and my algorithm) led me here and I wouldn’t have wished it any other way. During my Master’s in Conservation and Restoration of Historic Interiors at the University of Amsterdam, I gained knowledge of many aspects, among which architectural finishes research and gilt leather. It was the latter that I was most interested in and continued to specialize in the conservation and restoration of (gilt) leather during a workshop with Theo Sturge, internships at the Leather Conservation Centre, Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands and at the SRAL. I enjoy working both on-site and at the SRAL studio in Maastricht, where the team’s diversity fosters discussions and unique perspectives. Looking back, I could never have predicted this journey, but I know now that I’ve found exactly where I’m meant to be: a conservator. d.stobbe@sral.nl

Dr. Lydia Beerkens

Director / Senior conservator of modern and contemporary art

Since 2021, I have served as Director at SRAL, alongside my role as Senior Conservator of Modern Art. Leading SRAL in shaping its content and rejuvenating our team has been a truly rewarding task. Our strength lies in the ability of our specialists to collaborate intensively, often beyond their own fields of expertise. Expanding our team with a new generation of conservators is crucial for safeguarding our knowledge and ensuring continuity for SRAL's future. The conservation of modern art raises exciting questions, such as, "Why should modern art be restored already?" and "Why doesn’t the artist repair it themselves?" Each project is full of surprises. What materials were used? What was the artist’s intention? Artist interviews often yield unexpected insights, making every restoration a unique experience. Beyond my work at SRAL, I am also active in the church council of the Basilica of Our Lady in Maastricht. While many are familiar with the candle chapel of 'Maria Sterre-der-Zee,' the Treasury of the 'Slevrouwe' is a lesser-known gem of the city. I dedicate my expertise, religious commitment, and heritage connections to preserving the church's treasures, its rich interior, and its precious reliquaries. l.beerkens@sral.nl Dr. Lydia Beerkens

Joanna Strombek

Medior conservator paintings

As a painting conservator, I specialize in treating canvas paintings, including structural repairs. What captivates me most is finding the ideal solution for each object and challenge, as every project requires its own unique, often creative, approach. As an expert in the Mist-Lining technique—an innovative method for enhancing canvas paintings—I conduct workshops internationally. This allows me not only to share my expertise but also to learn from local techniques in various countries, which I can incorporate into my own conservation work. It has been a privilege to present and publish internationally, with a notable highlight being the Conserving Canvas conference at Yale in 2019. Alongside my restoration work, I serve as Assistant Coordinator for the ICOM-CC Paintings Working Group, where I organize networking events and foster professional connections. Throughout my career, I have had the honor to work at institutions such as the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, the National Museum in Warsaw, and the magnificent Wilanów Palace in Poland. j.strombek@sral.nl Joanna Strombek

Julia Hartmann

Medior conservator paintings

From a young age, I had a deep-seated desire to work with my hands. I completed several apprenticeships, ranging from goldsmithing to carpentry to glass painting. However, I continued searching for a way to unite my curiosity, analytical thinking, and research interests. One day, I crossed paths with a 70-year-old restorer whose passion for art conservation inspired me to find my true calling. This led me to study restoration in Cologne. For my master's project, I explored modern and contemporary materials and challenges, which also introduced me to the Fondation Vasarely in the south of France, where I spent four years after graduation. Although leaving Provence was difficult, the opportunity to join the interdisciplinary team at SRAL opened new horizons. The atmosphere of openness within the team gave me the confidence to tackle the complex challenges inherent in the world of modern materials in art. j.hartmann@sral.nl Julia Hartmann

Julie Fassbender

PR & Commuication / Management Assistant

j.fassbender@sral.nl Julie Fassbender

Julie Kviteberg Eriksen

Junior conservator paintings

My first encounter with art took place at my local museum in Tromsø, beyond the Arctic Circle in northern Norway. I was captivated by their church art exhibition—it felt like stepping into another world. Years later, armed with a wealth of experiences and ECTS credits, I graduated from the University of Oslo with a Master’s degree in Paintings Conservation. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working at conservation centers and museums across Norway and Denmark. There I've treated a diverse array of objects, including fine art, polychrome sculptures, historic interiors, and artifacts, before joining SRAL as a junior conservator. I especially love how we cooperate and share knowledge across disciplines, highlighting all the skills conservation requires, including craftmanship, humanities and hard science. I have a soft spot for conservation history and ethics, as I love to see how our predecessors' solved problems, and the traces of history on an object. As a conservator no challenge is the same, and you never stop learning. I’m privileged to learn something new every day from my competent colleagues. j.kviteberg@sral.nl

Kate Seymour

Head of education/ Senior conservator

k.seymour@sral.nl Kate Seymour

Lise Wolfert

Conservator historic interiors

l.wolfert@sral.nl Lise Wolfert

Luisa Kahnert

Junior conservator paintings

When I was about to graduate High School, I was kind of at a loss about what career to choose. I had always been interested in a variety of subjects, such as history, art, crafts and science, but specializing in one subject alone didn’t feel quite right. Coincidentally, I then learned about conservation after visiting a restorer in my hometown. I was immediately enamoured by thought of a profession that combined all of my interests, including the practical aspects. After my studies in paintings conservation at the Academy of Fine Arts Dresden, I worked at the Leopold Museum Vienna and the RED Conservation Centre Duesseldorf for two years before my journey brought me here - to the SRAL - where I am met with materials and techniques that go beyond "classic" treatments for works on canvas. It is a challenge, but I feel supported by working with an interdisciplinary team. With so many experienced people coming together, you learn something new every day! Besides that, I especially enjoy diving into historical sources for all kinds of art and crafts … so much so that commandeers all of my free time - especially when it comes to sewing. So, depending on the day and occasion, you might find me dressed in, more or less, vintage-inspired attire that I’ve created with my kit and a pattern at home. l.kahnert@sral.nl

Luuk Hoogstede

Senior conservator paintings

A memorable episode of Het Klokhuis, a Dutch educational TV program for young people, had a profound impact on me. In a humorous scene, a character updates a painting with a colorful palette and broad brush, accompanied by a glass of whisky and a pipe. This portrayal inspired me as a teenager to delve into the field of art restoration. While the scene was far from an accurate representation of the restoration process, it sparked a genuine interest in the profession. Now, nearly 30 years later, I find my career as a conservator both invigorating and full of discovery. My work embodies a deep curiosity and a commitment to understanding and solving complex problems. I have developed extensive expertise in the research and structural treatment of panel paintings. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge through workshops, lectures at national and international symposia, and publications. Many of my articles focus on the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch, the subject of my doctoral research. l.hoogstede@sral.nl Luuk Hoogstede

Manon Antenbrink

Junior conservator / trainee project PoCo

m.antenbrink@sral.nl

Marc Deegens

Manager business operations

In my role within the company, I view myself as a "Big Brother." I oversee and manage the financial and project administration while also providing support and guidance to my colleagues, offering a listening ear for questions and advice. Outside of work, I am actively involved in basketball, frequently found in sports halls or on outdoor courts as a referee or coach. My goal, along with my colleagues, is to foster a safe and supportive work environment at SRAL, where everyone feels valued and comfortable being themselves. m.deegens@sral.nl Marc Deegens

Marjolein Hupkes

Medior conservator paintings

I grew up in a small village,to the north of Groningen, where I was captivated by artisanship from an early age. Watching skilled craftsmen, from fine painters and woodcarvers to our village carpenter, sparked a fascination with the materials and techniques they employed. This early interest led me to the field of restoration, allowing me to merge my passion for craftsmanship with my curiosity about history and chemistry. My internship in Sydney provided valuable experience working within a large team, an environment in which I thrived, while also allowing me to enjoy the Australian outdoors. Though Maastricht is closer to home, its setting in the picturesque South Limburg hills feels just as inspiring. I am delighted to be a part of the SRAL team, where I can continue to pursue my passion for restoration and conservation. m.hupkes@sral.nl Marjolein Hupkes

Nico van der Woude

Senior conservator historic interiors

As the son of an architect, I developed an early passion for historical buildings. My academic journey in art and architectural history led me to specialize in historical interiors, with notable experiences including the Rietveld Schröder House and the 18th-century Oud-Amelisweerd country house. These projects ignited my dedication to the conservation and restoration. My professional focus lies in researching, conserving, and restoring architectural monuments and its painted finishes, particularly in relation to their original use and habitation. The practical aspects of restoration work are a source of great satisfaction for me. Over the past 25 years, I have worked closely with colleagues at SRAL, with a particular focus on the restoration of painted wallpapers, alongside other projects, across numerous locations in The Netherlands. n.vanderwoude@sral.nl Nico van der Woude

Rosanne Snijders

Junior conservator / trainee project PoCo

After finishing high school in Amersfoort, I took a leap of faith and moved to Koblenz, where I completed a year-and-a-half internship with a conservator. The unique combination of art, chemistry, and craftsmanship captivated me. Following my studies in art history in Nijmegen, I returned to Cologne to further specialize in the conservation and restoration of paintings and sculptures. In my spare time, I enjoy exploring the hilly landscapes of Germany and Limburg, whether climbing rock faces or riding my racing bike. For the Project Polychromy Conservation (PoCo) at SRAL, I find joy in examining the microscopic landscapes of painted wooden sculptures under the microscope. The different layers and their underlying stories come alive for me under the magnifying glass, revealing their gloss and varied textures. I look forward to delving deeper into the materials, historical techniques, and conservation of polychrome sculptures in the near future. r.snijders@sral.nl

Prof. Dr. H.E.G.S. Schneider

Prof. Dr. H.E.G.S. Schneider

Drs. A.L.C.J. van Beek RC MFE

Drs. A.L.C.J. van Beek RC MFE

Dr. J.J. de Jong

Dr. J.J. de Jong