SERVICES
Examination Services
Reanda Art Conservation provides expert assessments of paintings.
A visual assessment is necessary to understand the condition of an artwork and determine its needs. In most cases, an official cost estimate for treatment will not be made without an in-person examination. It may be necessary to unframe the painting for a full assessment. Technical imaging with ultraviolet fluorescence and infrared photography may also be utilized.
Common situations requiring an examination include:
When there is concern about damage or the aesthetic appearance of an artwork, so that a treatment plan can be formulated.
Before, during and after a loan in order to monitor any changes to condition during transport or while on display.
When an artwork is moved, 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 results in an insurance claim.
Examinations can be undertaken on-site or at the RAC studio in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago
Treatment Services
Reanda Art Conservation specializes in paintings conservation.
We are a licensed and insured professional paintings conservation business with extensive experience treating paintings from the 14th-21st centuries. We consider our clients needs alongside the artwork’s natural aging and condition history, and aim to provide a range of treatment options to best accommodate budget and time constraints. Our focus is on preserving artworks, and we only recommend more in-depth treatments when truly warranted.
Common treatments we undertake include:
Grime removal from various paint surfaces
Re-adhering flaking paint
Reducing canvas distortions
Structural repairs of damaged supports
Varnish and overpaint removal
Reintegration of paint loss
Frame improvements and minor repairs
We prioritize treating structural issues first. For example, it is not advisable to try to remove discolored varnish layers from the surface of an artwork with flaking paint.
For artworks that need hands-on conservation treatment, RAC uses a service agreement contract to grant formal approval for the proposed work. If you have a Fine Art insurance policy, we will require a copy of the Certificate of Insurance (COI) that includes a “waiver of subrogation” before accepting a painting into the studio (we can assist with this process).
All treatments are performed to the highest standards, following the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice of the American Institute for Conservation.
Documentation Services
Reanda Art Conservation provides the documentation you need.
We generate documentation to suit different needs, whether for a registrar coordinating a loan or an individual looking to sell or make a purchase.
Typical documentation may include:
Condition Reports
Treatment reports
Digital photography
Technical imaging
Written 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.
RAC has a professional photographer on staff and we have the capability to perform ultraviolet fluorescence and infrared photography. Ultraviolet light can show where restoration work has been performed, as well as provide information about pigments and varnish layers. Infrared photography may reveal an artist’s underdrawing and can be used to assess damages.
At the end of every treatment, clients are provided with a written treatment report and digital images documenting the process.
Consultation Services
Reanda Art Conservation provides consulting services to help reduce risks to artworks.
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 unique problems. The owner of RAC, Daniela Leonard, has been a paintings conservator for over 15 years, including 5 years at the Art Institute of Chicago. She is passionate about safeguarding artworks so that they continue to bring joy into the future.
Consulting services may include:
Preventive measures to reduce adverse environmental effects that lead to damage
Overseeing the packing and unpacking of artworks
Advising on the installation, deinstallation and transport of oversized paintings
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.