Preserving Art Through Science, Craft, and Community

Rahul Sharma (India, UWC Mahindra, College of Idaho ’14) has been awarded a coveted research scholar position at The Metropolitan Museum of Art—an achievement he credits to his formative years in Caldwell, Idaho. Though now an emerging figure in art conservation, Sharma’s path wasn’t always clear.

“My entire trajectory was shaped during my time at the College of Idaho,” he reflects. “I did not know I would go into conservation when I was in Caldwell, but being there among the community, both academic and local, really set me up for what I am doing now.”

His journey began when archivist Jan Boles gave him his first camera and studio space. Professor Garth Claassen granted him unrestricted darkroom access. Chemistry professors Dr. Truksa and Dr. Saunders helped him understand the science behind photographic processes, remaining patient even after he accidentally filled a lab with nitric acid fumes. Beyond campus, neighbor Steve Towrey shared vintage photos, while Andy Yee taught him steady brushwork. “The saying is true—it really takes a village,” Sharma notes.

“In all honesty, nothing I directly do day-to-day was taught at the College of Idaho,” he admits. “But then, a liberal arts education isn’t a professional education. What I learned was how to think.” Over time, courses that seemed tangential—Idaho Natural History, sociology, literature—became increasingly relevant to his conservation work.

“I can guarantee you that I would not be where I am today, if it wasn’t for the education I received and the people I got to meet while I was there.”

This profile is part of the “Graduates in Action” series from the 2026 Annual Report