13/03/2026
Rick De La Espriella once maintained electrical systems on Melbourne’s rail network.
Today he is restoring historic objects and architectural treasures in London.
Rick has always enjoyed working with materials and understanding how things are made. While working in technical system roles, he realised his real passion lay in something that combined craft, history and problem solving.
Studying conservation in London would normally have been out of reach. Thanks to the support of a BASET Endeavour Heritage Award, Rick was able to take that step and pursue an opportunity that would otherwise not have been possible.
Today he is studying Conservation of Stone, Wood and Decorative Surfaces at City & Guilds of London Art School, one of the leading places to train as a professional conservator.
Since arriving in London, Rick has been able to apply his craft skills to the conservation of real historic objects. This year alone, he has worked on projects including an 11th century architectural stone from Rochester Cathedral and an altar candlestick from Bradford Cathedral.
“To study conservation in London has been transformative and pushed me to a level of growth that would not have been possible elsewhere. Without the support of BASET I would not be where I am today.”
Now in his third year at City & Guilds of London Art School, Rick is already looking ahead to a life in conservation and his eventual return to Australia with his specialist skillset.
Stories like Rick’s show what can happen when talent and opportunity meet.
✨Australian nationals studying conservation at City & Guilds of London Art School can apply for the BASET Endeavour Heritage Award, an award match funded by the Art School and BASET(The Britain-Australia Society Education Trust).
➡️Learn more here: https://www.cityandguildsartschool.ac.uk/BASET
