Protect Your Art Investment
True colours brought on by cleaning (varnish removal).
..... Invest in the future - protect your art collection today
The acquisition of an art object occasionally requires cleaning, restoring and/or conservation. Early detection of any problem, will minimize costly future interventions.

Inherent Vices
Some works of art have a built in "time-bomb" which will result in costly conservation treatments and/or, in extreme cases, a complete write off. If in any doubt the buyer should consult a qualified conservator regarding the stability of an art object.

Framing
Framing plays an important role in preserving the artwork. Apart from its aesthetic function, a frame protects the edges of the painting and makes handling and storage safer. Frame facilitates glazing of especially delicate paintings and works of art on paper.
The backs of paintings should be protected with sturdy acid-free cardboard or plastic backing boards. A backing board not only prevents an artwork from accidental damage, but reduces the exposure of the canvas to pollutants in the atmosphere and so slows the rate of deterioration.

Large sums of money are spent on visual appeal of the frame, frequently disregarding the detrimental effects of the materials used. The works of art on paper are especially vulnerable and the proximity to an acidic environment (mats, backing boards, hinges etc) will seriously and often permanently damage them.

The Role of a Conservator
Presently there are three types of conservators in Canada: Those with diplomas in art conservation from accredited Canadian and foreign universities, those with many years of apprenticeship in recognized conservation studios and those who think they "know it all" by reading one or two do-it-yourself manuals.

Treatment by an unskilled conservator may result in partial or total ruin of an art object. The most common problems are: overcleaning, and the use of inappropriate, non-reversible materials.

Selecting a Conservator
Before any work begins a client should be aware of both, the scope of the work and the cost. The client should obtain a written condition report, treatment proposal and cost estimate. Upon the completion of the work a written treatment report including a list of materials used, should be provided. Photographic documentation might be included, if requested and specified by the contract.

Clients are encouraged, should they have any doubt about the treatment and cost, to seek a second opinion from another qualified conservators.
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