What is conservation?
Paintings change over time, and they may need to be restored. Some changes are the result of aging and don't all need to be treated: increased transparency of oil paints and certain types of cracks, for example, don't threaten the stability of a painting. But other effects of aging will obscure the artist's intent: dirt, grime, and the natural oxidation of varnishes will dim a painting, changing colors and the balance of lights and darks. Changes to temperature and humidity and mold can do worse damage. Accidents, fires, and floods can deal more serious damage still. A painting conservators' mission is to preserve the artwork - and the artist's original intent.
How to choose a conservator
In the United States, professional conservators are members of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works, or AIC. The body maintains a list of accredited professional associates, and has guidelines on how to choose a conservator. Marie-Hélène Gugenheim has been a professional associate at the AIC since 1993. Trained in Europe and the United States, she has more than 24 years' experience as a full-time conservator. She has worked in areas as diverse as the conservation of Russian icons, to vast mural projects in the United States and France, and is the paintings conservator for the Kelly Collection of American Illustration.
Working with the conservator
There is only so much that can be done over the phone; whenever possible diagnosis should be made in person. To set up an appointment, call one of the numbers noted below. A preliminary examination can be done at the studio free of charge. The next step is usually an in-depth examination of the artwork, which includes a written condition report, a detailed treatment proposal, and a cost estimate. Receipts are given for artwork left at the studio. Paintings are covered under the conservator's insurance policy - but the owner is responsible for declaring the work's value. If the owner authorizes treatment, the nominal fee for the detailed condition report will be waived.
Further information
For examples of what can happen to paintings, click here. For a series of before-and-after photos, click here. Finally, you can access Marie-Hélène Gugenheim's LinkedIn profile by clicking the button below.