Work Experience Diaries: Part 2

My Art Collections Work Experience Diary, July 2025

Written by Winki Wang, Year 10 at The Holt School

I recently had the opportunity to spend two days undertaking work experience at the University of Reading Art Collection. Although this wasn’t a great deal of time, it was an incredibly valuable and eye-opening experience. As a Year 10 student with zero workplace experience, I felt nervous and unsure of what to expect. Fortunately, my supervisor, Hannah, as well as the entire team, were super welcoming, supportive, and keen to guide me. 

On the first day, Xionne (another Year 10 student on work experience) and I received a detailed tour of the building, learning about the history behind it. We were introduced to other staff and their various roles, followed by a health and safety induction. Later on, we started discussing our main task: art historical research on items in the University Art Collection. We were able to choose an object from the art collection to focus on and I chose to study Rembrandt van Rijn’s (1606-1669) etching, The Bathers, made in 1651. 

Four nude figures beside a stream. One sitting on the left bank with his knees pulled up, another to his right ascending the bank, a third in the distance on the right, supporting himself on the bank, a fourth standing in the shrubbery in the distance. Letters are lightly scratched in the river and bank. — Rembrandt, *The Bathers*, 1651, etching on paper. UAC/11609.

What seemed like a simple research project quickly became an interesting journey. I discovered and analysed the depth of meaning in this artwork, learning about Rembrandt’s techniques and materials. For example, I learnt about the etching process and the tiniest details that often go unnoticed to viewers. For an art student like me, I found this process fascinating and deeply inspiring! 

In addition to our research, we also had the chance to explore different areas of the workplace, allowing us to observe the variety of roles involved in the Museums and Collections department. We learnt different and interesting facts like: “what is red rot?”; how to photograph art pieces properly without reflections; and the importance of making reversible decisions in conservation. This experience not only deepened my passion and understanding for art, but it also gave me an experience of what working in a real and professional environment is like.

This experience was unforgettable and I am more than grateful for the opportunity.  