The Frick Collection Appoints Julia Day as Chief Conservator Amid Major Upgrades

This spring, the Frick Collection in New York entered a new chapter. With the appointment of Julia Day as chief conservator, the museum expands its commitment to preserving art with modern innovation.

Day returns to the Frick after her recent position at the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. She steps into her new role following the retirement of long-serving furniture expert Joseph Godla.

Her homecoming aligns perfectly with the Frick’s behind-the-scenes transformation. This includes new, cutting-edge conservation facilities that mark a turning point for the institution.

New Conservation Studio Elevates Frick’s Preservation Capabilities

The Frick Collection’s $220 million Selldorf-designed renovation introduced public features like a dramatic staircase and underground concert hall. But just as significant is what lies behind closed doors.

A brand-new 1,200-square-foot conservation studio, now named the Sherman Fairchild Center for Art Conservation, is a game-changer.

The space includes:

• A full radiography room

• Adjustable, open-plan work areas

• Dedicated elevator access

• A high-vent room for advanced treatments

• Photo documentation zones

• Northern natural light for optimal visibility

Designed by Samuel Anderson Architects, the lab supports both object and painting conservation. Julia Day helped consult on the studio’s plans before her departure in 2022.

Julia Day Returns to a Very Different Frick

Day first joined the Frick in 2008, focusing on decorative arts. At that time, the conservation team was tiny—just Day and Godla—working from a cramped, 350-square-foot space without running water.

Today, the Frick’s facilities are state-of-the-art. One improvement Day celebrates most? “We finally have deionised water!” she laughs.

This essential feature allows conservators to clean delicate objects without leaving harmful minerals behind. In the past, she had to borrow it from the library department.

High-Tech Tools Usher in a New Conservation Era

The conservation lab is now equipped with cutting-edge instruments like:

• A standing microscope for enhanced precision

• A high-ventilation room for safe lacquer applications

• A laser designed for delicate, on-site cleaning—especially for stone surfaces

The lab opens doors for more detailed, localized treatments. While the Metropolitan Museum will still assist with painting conservation, the Frick can now host Met conservators on-site instead of sending pieces across town.

Current and Upcoming Projects on Day’s Desk

Though she’s still getting reacquainted with the building, Day has already taken on major responsibilities.

This fall, she’s overseeing preparations for two key exhibitions:

1. Flora Yukhnovich’s Mural Project (September 2025)

A mural will transform the Cabinet Gallery walls, echoing François Boucher’s 1755 “The Four Seasons.” Day’s team is helping integrate the piece without damaging historic interiors.

2. To the Holy Sepulcher Exhibition (October 2025)

This upcoming show features religious artifacts on loan from Jerusalem’s Terra Sancta Museum. Her team is carefully polishing intricate silver pieces for the exhibit.

Looking Ahead: Julia Day’s Personal Wishlist

Although her new role includes more administrative work, Day remains passionate about hands-on conservation. She’s especially fond of metal, glass, and stone materials. At the top of her wish list is “Diana the Huntress,” a life-sized terracotta sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon. Day wants to examine the surface texture and structural integrity. She also hopes to work on a bronze bust by Antoine Coysevox, a prominent French sculptor favored by Louis XIV. “I want to understand the surface,” she says, hinting at secrets beneath its coating.

Balancing History and Innovation at the Frick

The expanded facilities mark a new era for the Frick. Yet, its commitment to tradition remains. With Julia Day leading a new generation of conservators, the museum blends historical reverence with cutting-edge science. The team can now preserve fragile works more effectively—while also supporting new exhibitions and loans.

Day’s calm leadership and deep expertise position her as the perfect steward for the collection’s next chapter.

Final Thoughts

Julia Day’s return as chief conservator comes at a pivotal moment for the Frick Collection. Her leadership aligns with the museum’s physical and philosophical evolution.

From cramped quarters to world-class labs, the conservation department has transformed. With enhanced tools, expanded staff, and bold exhibitions ahead, the Frick is more prepared than ever to protect its treasures for future generations.