Katya Birukova is a museum-trained paintings conservator specializing in the preservation of historic and culturally significant artworks—from 14th-century European panel paintings and Orthodox icons to modern and contemporary works. With more than a decade of professional experience, she has treated paintings for major museums and private collections in the United States and Europe.

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Before establishing her studio in Los Angeles, Katya served as an Associate Paintings Conservator at the Williamstown + Atlanta Art Conservation Center, where she worked closely with the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and other partner institutions. During this time, she contributed to the examination and conservation of works ranging from Old Master paintings to modern masterpieces.

Her conservation portfolio includes paintings associated with artists such as Pieter Lastman, Philips Wouwerman, Benjamin West, Mary Cassatt, Edgar Degas, Florine Stettheimer, Marc Chagall, Ivon Hitchens, Hale Woodruff, Damien Hirst, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Robert Swain, among others. Her experience spans a wide range of artistic traditions, from early European religious painting and icons to Impressionist, modern, and contemporary works.

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Katya received her Master’s degree in Paintings Conservation from the St. Petersburg Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design, one of Europe’s most respected conservation programs. There, she specialized in the conservation of oil paintings, tempera icons, and gilded frames while working under the guidance of conservators affiliated with the State Hermitage Museum.

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Today, Katya operates a private conservation studio in Palos Verdes, California, where she provides conservation treatment, condition assessments, and collection care for museums, galleries, churches, and private collectors. 

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As a member of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), Katya follows the highest ethical and professional standards of the conservation field. Her work is dedicated to preserving the material and historical integrity of artworks—whether a centuries-old museum masterpiece or a cherished painting passed down through generations.