Debra Daly Hartin, Ruggles Award Recipient 2023

This award was presented posthumously to Debra Daly Hartin, who sadly passed away in 2022. The following biography is a condensed version of a longer article describing Debbie’s many contributions to the field of painting restoration, published in the Fall 2023 Bulletin.

Debra Daly Hartin received her Honours B.A. in Art History and Studio Art, with a minor in Natural Sciences, from the University of Western Ontario in 1976. She earned her Master of Art Conservation degree in Fine Art (Paintings and Paper) from Queen’s University in 1978. In 1979, she joined the Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) in Ottawa, where she dedicated her professional career for over 37 years as a painting conservator, researcher, collaborator, and educator. Debbie was Senior Conservator of Fine Arts at the time of her retirement in 2016.

Debbie was a gifted practicing conservator, with a keen eye, excellent interpretation abilities, and outstanding hand skills. During her time at CCI, Debbie treated a number of notable paintings, including Death of General Wolfe by James Barry (New Brunswick Museum) and Horse and Train by Alex Colville (Art Gallery of Hamilton). She mentored many interns and Fellows whom she welcomed as members of the CCI family and who will always remember her kindness, her wisdom, and her skill.

Curious and by nature collaborative, it is not surprising that Debbie was actively involved in research throughout her career, with a primary focus studying the lining of paintings. Her record of publications and presentations demonstrates the numerous contributions she made in this area. Debbie published online articles and gave workshops to small museums. By writing many CCI technical notes, as well as numerous articles for conference proceedings and journals, Debbie contributed significantly to the professional literature.

Debbie’s professionalism and dedication were beyond question. But more than that, Debbie had the personal qualities that made her a superb role-model, mentor, researcher, and team member—earning her much respect and love from her peers.

Debbie made an outstanding contribution to the conservation profession within Canada and around the world. She was a beautiful person who consistently made life better for others in so many ways. She is truly missed by her adoring family and many loving friends and colleagues. Debbie would have been truly honoured and humbled to receive this prestigious award, created to honour her mentor, Mr. Ruggles.