"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.
Please
find out more:
