Is there a career combining art and archaeology?

Dr. dig responds:
One field of archaeology you will want to consider more carefully as a career choice is called Forensic Archaeology, which employs the art of forensics to reconstruct the appearance of humans and animals from skeletal remains. This a most fascinating field and one that will draw on your skills as an artist as well as a scientist to observe small details.

You may want to get a hold of a book called Making Faces by John Prag and Richard Neave. Click here for a review.

Another area to consider is archaeological conservation and restoration, and there are many excellent programs across the US that specialize in this.

Depending on your interests, you will want to consider double majoring in anthropology and art, art history and art, or archaeology and art. Some museum experience, archaeology lab experience, and field work experience will also be very helpful in helping you narrow your interests and gain experience. If you decide you want to specialize in forensic reconstruction, you will need a background in human anatomy and medical drawing. For conservation and reconstruction you will need to do chemistry.

Once you decide the area of expertise you want to enter, choose your courses carefully, research the best programs, and try to find appropriate job/ volunteer experience that will build on your skills.