A respected conservator, Gary Hulbert has treated many of Hearst Castle’s paintings. He holds BFA and MA degrees in studio art and conservation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and New York State University College in Buffalo.

Since 1989, as an outside contractor, Mr. Hulbert has worked on site at Hearst Castle on a variety of projects. These include the painted frieze by Francesco Maffei in the lobby of Casa del Monte (c. 1660), a fresco frieze attributed to Marcello Fogolino or possibly Francesco Verla in the lobby of Casa del Mar (c. 1520 – 1530), and the ceilings in the Doge’s Sitting Room (c. 1600), the Billiard Room (c. 1450 – 75?), and W. R. Hearst’s bedroom (c. 1390 – 1400) in Casa Grande.

For the past several years, he has taken on the ambitious project of bringing back to life a 16th century Spanish Mudéjar coffered ceiling spanning what came to be called Hearst Castle’s “Morning Room.” A massive undertaking, his expert cleaning and restoration has unveiled a gorgeous, vibrant, gessoed work of art; however, there is more yet to be done to return it fully to its former splendor. The Foundation at Hearst Castle has funded each phase of this critical restoration project.

We are incredibly grateful for Gary Hulbert’s time, care, and patient dedication.