Angelina Bakalarou is a name that has become increasingly familiar to lovers of art, heritage preservation, and heart-warming television. Known to millions as the paper conservator on the beloved BBC series The Repair Shop, she has captured audiences with her skilful restorations and calm, thoughtful approach to even the most delicate of projects. Beyond her television appearances, Angelina has built a career grounded in artistry, patience, and a deep respect for cultural heritage.
Early Life and Cultural Roots
Born and raised in Greece, Angelina Bakalarou grew up surrounded by a rich tapestry of history and culture. Greece, with its centuries-old monuments, vibrant art traditions, and deep respect for heritage, provided a fertile ground for developing her interest in the preservation of artistic treasures. From an early age, she developed a fascination for artefacts and the stories they held. This appreciation was not purely academic; it was an emotional connection to the past, one that would later shape her professional path.
The cultural backdrop of Greece, where ancient ruins stand alongside bustling modern life, instilled in her a keen awareness of the fragility of history. Watching how time, environment, and human activity could alter or damage priceless works inspired her to consider how such items could be protected and restored.
Academic Pathway and Training
Angelina’s formal education began with studies in the Conservation of Antiquities and Works of Art in Athens, a rigorous programme that combined technical skill with historical and artistic knowledge. Here she learned the scientific principles of conservation, the chemistry of preservation materials, and the ethics of working with historical objects.
Eager to refine her skills and gain a more specialised focus, Angelina moved to the United Kingdom to pursue a Master’s degree in Paper Conservation at the University of London. This marked a decisive step in her career, as it provided her with advanced knowledge of paper fibres, inks, pigments, and the impact of environmental factors on these materials. She also developed expertise in treating works on paper—ranging from rare manuscripts and maps to watercolours and printed artworks.
The Road to Professional Excellence
After her postgraduate studies, Angelina began working with both public institutions and private collections. Her work involved creating condition reports, carrying out delicate cleaning and repairs, and advising on proper storage and display techniques. She became known for her precision, patience, and unwavering dedication to the preservation of artworks.
One of the hallmarks of Angelina’s approach is her commitment to ethical restoration. In conservation, the goal is not to make an object look brand new, but to stabilise it, prevent further deterioration, and respect the integrity of its history. Angelina’s work embodies this principle—restorations are discreet, reversible where possible, and always guided by respect for the original craftsmanship.
Co-Founding “The Conservators”
Together with fellow conservator Ashleigh, Angelina co-founded The Conservators, a professional practice dedicated to the preservation and restoration of works on paper. This venture allowed her to extend her services beyond institutions and into the hands of private collectors, families, and individuals who wished to safeguard their treasures.
The Conservators handle a wide range of projects, from centuries-old maps to family heirlooms such as handwritten letters or original artworks. Clients value the combination of scientific expertise and artistic sensitivity that Angelina brings to every piece.
Television Breakthrough on The Repair Shop
Angelina’s public profile took a significant leap in 2023 when she joined the cast of The Repair Shop on BBC One. The programme, set in a charming countryside workshop, features skilled artisans restoring cherished possessions brought in by members of the public.
As the resident paper conservator, Angelina’s role involves tackling projects that others might consider too fragile or complex. From repairing torn documents to restoring faded artworks, her contributions often bring emotional moments to the show. Families frequently see their heirlooms returned to them in a condition that preserves both their beauty and their history.
Her calm and gentle manner on screen has resonated with viewers. She not only explains her restoration process with clarity but also shares the stories behind the objects, ensuring that the human connection is never lost amid the technical work.
Approach to Paper Conservation
Paper conservation is a highly specialised discipline that demands patience, dexterity, and a deep understanding of materials. Angelina’s process typically begins with an in-depth assessment of the item, noting its condition, materials, and any previous restorations. She then develops a treatment plan tailored to the object’s needs, often involving:
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Surface cleaning to remove dirt and debris without damaging delicate fibres.
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Repairing tears using archival-quality Japanese papers and reversible adhesives.
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Stabilising pigments and inks to prevent further fading or deterioration.
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Rehousing and mounting the work in conservation-grade materials for safe storage or display.
This methodical approach ensures that each piece is preserved for future generations without compromising its authenticity.
Personal Inspirations and Lifestyle
Outside of her professional life, Angelina leads a creative and aesthetically rich existence. Based in London, she shares glimpses of her life through social media, where followers see her love for art, plants, and interior design. Her living space, often adorned with greenery and carefully chosen decorative pieces, reflects her appreciation for beauty and detail.
Her long-term relationship with her partner, Simone, is another central part of her life. Friends and colleagues describe her as warm, approachable, and genuinely passionate about both her work and the people around her.
Contribution to Heritage and Education
Angelina Bakalarou’s impact extends beyond her own studio. By sharing her knowledge through public talks, media appearances, and collaborations, she contributes to greater public understanding of conservation. She helps demystify the work of conservators, showing that it is both a science and an art form.
Through The Repair Shop, she has also inspired young people to consider careers in heritage preservation. Her work demonstrates that conservation is not merely about objects—it is about safeguarding the stories, memories, and emotions tied to them.
Challenges in the Field
Conservation is not without its challenges. Paper is particularly vulnerable to light, humidity, insects, and handling. Each restoration project must balance the need for preservation with the desire to retain the original appearance. Furthermore, conservators often face limitations in resources, funding, and time, especially when working with public institutions.
Angelina’s ability to navigate these challenges with grace and professionalism is a testament to her skill. Her projects often require creative problem-solving, whether sourcing rare materials or developing new techniques for complex cases.
The Growing Public Appreciation for Conservation
In recent years, public interest in conservation has grown, thanks in part to television programmes like The Repair Shop. People are beginning to see the value in preserving not just high-profile museum artefacts, but also personal items that hold sentimental value. Angelina’s work plays a key role in this cultural shift, showing that even the most modest objects can carry deep meaning.
Future Plans and Aspirations
While Angelina has already achieved notable success, her journey is far from over. She continues to take on new projects with The Conservators, balancing her private practice with television work. There is potential for her to author educational materials or lead training workshops, passing her knowledge to a new generation of conservators.
Given her talent and dedication, it is likely that Angelina will remain a prominent figure in the world of paper conservation for years to come. She embodies the ideal blend of technical expertise, artistic sensitivity, and personal warmth—qualities that make her work not only impressive but also deeply meaningful.
Conclusion
Angelina Bakalarou’s career is a shining example of how passion, skill, and cultural heritage can intersect to create meaningful work. From her early days in Greece to her postgraduate studies in London, from private conservation projects to her television role on The Repair Shop, she has consistently shown a commitment to preserving history with integrity and care.
Her journey offers inspiration to aspiring conservators and serves as a reminder that every artefact, no matter how small, is a link to our collective story. As she continues to restore and protect the treasures entrusted to her, Angelina Bakalarou stands as a guardian of both art and memory—a role that is as vital as it is inspiring.
