"Over time, the vibrancy and physical condition of a painting can be compromised by many things — the smoke from fireplaces, from years of tobacco smoke, the effects of water damage from floods and burst pipes, damage incurred during display or storage, darkening due to the chemical changes of the original picture varnish, and simply the slow deterioration caused by air born dust".
Restoration is the general term used to describe a range of processes that can be done to restore an oil painting to its original aesthetic appearance. In broad terms, these processes include:
Surface Cleaning
Cleaning of dirt, smoke, grime and the accumulated “stuff” that adheres to the surface of an oil painting
Varnish Removal
Most oil paintings have had at least one coat of a varnish applied as both a protection as well as for its effect of enhancing colours. Over time, varnish begins to darken. Combined with the accumulation of years of dirt, smoke and grime, the result is a painting that has become dark with many details obscured or lost. Varnished paintings, however, do tend to be more resistant to mould and damage than oil paintings that have never been varnished.
Damage to Picture support
Repair of holes, scratches, peeling, chipping or other damage to the surface of the painting(canvas, panel or board). Many paintings have been damaged by accidents, vandalism, attempts by untrained persons to “clean” them, and poor storage or display. Exposure to, or submersion in, water can cause the paint to begin separating from its support. Mould is often detected first as a whitish discolouration or the common dark “circles.” Holes need to be patched, and “in-painting” needs to be done to match the colours and return the painting to a near new condition.
New Protective Varnish
Application of new varnish. Similar to the last step when a painting was newly painted, a varnish is applied to protect valuable art so it is again ready for many more years of enjoyment.
An oil painting is a work of art. While many individuals can learn to clean a painting, kill mould, and even repair a small tear or hole, it is the careful reapplication of paint to the surface of the painting that reveals the difference between having a painting restored by a technician or a true artist! The careful and precise mixing and application of oil paint, replicating the original artist’s technique, will allow a casual or trained viewer to enjoy a unified work of art.
That is why when you entrust your precious work of art to The Original Artwork Store you can rest assured it will be in the safe hands of our in house skilled Artist/ Restorer.
That is why when you entrust your precious work of art to The Original Artwork Store you can rest assured it will be in the safe hands of our in house skilled Artist/ Restorer.
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