Sara Mazzarino

Sara Mazzarino is a tenured Professor at the Academy of Fine Arts of Bologna since 2024, specializing in the conservation and restoration of library and archival materials. With over two decades of international experience, she has collaborated with prestigious institutions including the British Library (2005-2012), the Library of the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine (Sinai), the American Academy in Rome, and the National Museum and Galleries of Wales.

Her educational background includes a 2001 specialization in manuscript and printed book restoration from the European Specialized Training Course in Conservation and Restoration of Book Heritage (Spoleto), complemented by UK teaching qualification (NVQ Level 3) in 2010 and ICCROM International Summer School training in 2017. She has taught conservation techniques at Brera Academy of Fine Arts, ICPAL School of Advanced Training, SUSCOR (University of Turin), and University of Rome Tor Vergata.

Professor Mazzarino's research focuses on historical bookbinding techniques, book mechanics, parchment/leather conservation methodologies, and preventive conservation strategies. Her work integrates codicology and book archaeology with practical restoration, emphasizing artifact degradation analysis and evidence-based intervention design. At the Academy, she leads laboratory-based instruction where students develop hands-on skills in material analysis, conservation treatment execution, and professional documentation.

She mentors students through comprehensive restoration projects from initial assessment to final presentation, fostering expertise in both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Her current teaching includes Bookbinding Techniques (ABPR76), Restoration of Library and Archival Materials 2 (ABPR27), and Techniques of Leather and Parchment Artifacts (ABPR75), requiring mastery of specialized tools and techniques for cultural heritage conservation.