SERVICES

 

Examination Services

Reanda Art Conservation provides in-person assessments of artworks.

A visual  assessment is necessary to understand the condition of an artwork and determine its needs. In most cases, an official cost estimate for conservation treatment will not be made without seeing the artwork in person first. Tests to determine the sensitivity of the artist’s materials may also be required. Technical imaging making use of infrared and/or ultraviolet light may be utilized to better understand the condition of a painting.

Common situations requiring an examination include:

  • When there is concern about damage or the aesthetic appearance of an artwork, so that a conservation treatment plan can be determined.

  • Before, during and after a loan in order to monitor any changes to condition during transport or while on display, in case an incident occurs.

  • Before movement of an artwork, whether it is being taken off display or going in or out of storage, so that condition issues can be noted and addressed in a timely manner.

  • During a sale transaction so that the seller and potential buyer can have a professional opinion about the condition of an artwork.

  • After an incident that may result in an insurance claim.

Examinations can be undertaken on site or at the RAC studio in Ravenswood, Chicago

 
 

Treatment Services

Reanda Art Conservation specializes in the conservation treatment of paintings.

We consider our clients needs alongside an understanding of a painting’s natural aging and evidence of its condition history. RAC aims to provide a number of potential treatment options where possible, to best match a client’s budget and time constraints. Our focus is on preserving artworks, and we only recommend more in-depth treatments when warranted.

We have noted experience in:

  • Grime removal

  • Adhering flaking paint

  • Reducing canvas distortions 

  • Structural repairs

  • Varnish and overpaint removal

  • Reintegration of paint loss

  • Frame improvements and minor repairs

It is usually advisable, and sometimes a requirement, to address structural issues in an artwork before dealing with any aesthetic problems. For example, one should not try to remove discolored varnish layers from the surface of an artwork with flaking paint. Structural issues will be prioritized first.

For artworks requiring hands-on conservation treatments, RAC uses a service agreement contract including a condition report with treatment proposal that lays out the work agreed to with a cost estimate. At the end of every treatment clients are provided with a written treatment report that describes the work performed, as well as digital images documenting the process.

 
 

Documentation Services

Reanda Art Conservation can generate the documentation needed for a variety of situations.

We provide artwork documentation services to suit different needs, whether for a registrar coordinating a loan or a private owner looking to sell or make a purchase.

Typical documentation includes:

  • Condition Reports 

  • Treatment proposals

  • Treatment reports

  • Digital photography

  • Technical analysis

Condition reports may be tailored to the needs of a client, whether it’s an informal confirmation that a painting is in good condition, official loan paperwork, or documentation of damage for an insurance claim. All conservation treatments are documented with a written report that describes the work performed. These documents include information about potential risks, based in the specific needs of each artwork, and recommendations for preventive care. 

RAC has a professional photographer on staff. We offer ultra-violet and infra-red photographic analysis. UV photography is used to get information on whether there is reworking / previous restoration work, data about the pigments and varnish layers, or to better learn about damages. Infra-red photography is used to see any underdrawings and to assess damages.

 
 

Consultation Services

We can provide expert advice on the proper care of artworks on display, in storage and in transit, as well as perform research to troubleshoot specific problems. 

  • Preventive measures to reduce risk of damage to artworks

  • Overseeing the packing of artworks

  • Courier escort for artworks in transit

  • Collection assessments

  • Research on artist’s painting materials and techniques

We understand that the world is not a perfect place and aim to offer practical solutions to clients seeking to mitigate risks to their artworks.