1. What are conservation and restoration?
2. Why do conservation and restoration?
3.What causes damage to a work
of art?
4. What can you do to minimize
the risks to your works of art?
1. What are conservation and restoration?
The primary purpose of conservation is to prolong the
life of a work of art by slowing down the process of decay affecting
the materials used by the original artist, in order to minimize further
deterioration. Restoration is the process of repairing damage, thereby
returning the work of art as closely as possible to its original state.
The goal of the procedures and treatments used is to achieve the proper
balance between historical integrity and aesthetic value.
Top of Page
2. Why do conservation and restoration?
-
Repair damage
-
Extend the life of the work of art
-
Maintain the value of the work of art
-
Retain and enhance our understanding of the artist and his or her culture
Top of Page
3.What causes damage to a work of art?
-
Pollutants
-
Temperature changes
-
Humidity
-
Ageing
-
Mishandling
-
Inadequate packing
-
Inappropriate restoration
-
Careless preparation by the original artist
-
In the case of works of art on paper, improper framing materials
Top of Page
4. What can you do to minimize the risks to your works of art?
-
Maintain works of art in an environment of stable temperature
and humidity.
-
Keep works of art out of direct sunlight.
-
Do not touch the surface of a work of art with anything.
-
Inspect your works of art periodically, and note any changes in their
appearance.
When in doubt about their condition, bring your works of art to the
attention of your art conservator for evaluation. Normally, we charge
nothing for a consultation in our studio.
Top of Page
