The Repair Shop

Programme Overview

Lucia Scalisi revives a portrait of a heroic sea captain – In this captivating episode, viewers are taken behind the scenes of a meticulous restoration project. The BBC One East HD audience will follow renowned conservator Lucia Scalisi as she breathes new life into a historic portrait that celebrates a daring sea captain. The segment showcases the delicate balance of preserving original brushwork while revitalising colour and detail, offering a rare glimpse into the artistry of portrait restoration.

What to Expect

The episode weaves together three distinct restoration stories, each highlighting the skill and patience required to rescue treasured objects. First, Lucia Scalisi tackles the portrait, carefully cleaning layers of varnish, repairing micro‑cracks, and stabilising the canvas. Next, Kirsten Ramsay faces the challenge of reconstructing a shattered plaster bust, piecing together fragments with precision and using historically appropriate materials to ensure authenticity. Finally, the beloved Well‑Travelled Jamaican Trunk is handed to veteran restorer Will Kirk, who restores its battered exterior while preserving the stories etched into its wood.

Restoration Highlights

Each specialist brings a unique approach to their craft. Lucia’s expertise lies in colour matching and delicate surface treatment, allowing the heroic sea captain’s likeness to emerge with renewed vigor. Kirsten’s methodical reconstruction of the plaster bust demonstrates the art of invisible joins, where the finished piece appears whole despite its broken past. Will Kirk’s work on the Jamaican trunk combines structural repair with careful conservation of travel‑worn patina, ensuring the piece remains a testament to its adventurous history.

Why Watch

This episode appeals to a broad UK audience, from heritage enthusiasts to casual viewers who appreciate the transformation of forgotten artefacts. It offers an educational yet entertaining look at the painstaking processes behind conservation, underscoring the cultural value of preserving our shared past. Broadcast on BBC One East HD, the programme promises high‑definition visuals that capture every brushstroke, crack, and wood grain, making it a must‑see for anyone interested in British television’s finest documentary‑style entertainment.