What is WAAC?

The Western Association for Art Conservation (WAAC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care and preservation of cultural heritage. Our members include professional conservators as well as anyone with an interest in protecting the objects, artworks, and histories that shape our shared past.

What We Do

WAAC brings people together to share knowledge, build skills, and support the field of conservation. We publish the WAAC Newsletter three times a year and host an annual fall meeting where professionals present new research, ideas, and approaches.

Through these efforts, we foster collaboration and help ensure that cultural materials—whether in museums, historic sites, or collections—are preserved for future generations.

Membership

Membership is open to both individuals and institutions, in the United States and internationally. Individual members can participate in shaping the organization by voting in elections, serving in leadership roles, and attending the annual meeting.

Our Mission

The Western Association for Art Conservation (WAAC) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the professional development and support of conservators. Its activities aim to expand knowledge related to the conservation of artistic, historic, and cultural heritage, while following current professional ethics. WAAC encourages advocacy, education and research in conservation, promotes proficiency and skill in conservation practices, facilitates professional relationships, and disseminates technical and professional information to advance conservation knowledge.

Publications & Resources

In addition to the newsletter, WAAC produces practical resources that support the field, including A Guide to Handling Anthropological Museum Collections and Disaster Salvage and Response, a special issue focused on emergency preparedness and recovery.