Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Art conservation focuses on the preservation and protection of artworks, such as paintings and statues, artifacts, documents, architectural and other cultural treasures. 

Art conservation embraces an interdisciplinary and science-based approach to art. Research and science are the fundamental basis of the work of a conservator, who is highly educated in art history, chemistry and art restoration.

This field has evolved continuously, and it continues to embrace new technologies and innovative approaches. It would be wrong to state that there are many outdated methods in art conservation, in fact, often art conservators use the techniques used by the ancient masters that created the artwork they are restoring. Instead, there is a continuous evolution of techniques. New and innovative techniques focus on leaving an improved environmental imprint, such as the creation aqueous solutions and nanotechnologies, where in the past art conservators used only solvents. 

Art conservation ensures the long-term preservation of our cultural heritage by applying preventative care, as well as examining, treating, cleaning and repairing artworks that are consumed by time or ruined by disasters and accidents.

Art Conservators are the guardians of our cultural heritage. They are passionate about the arts and dedicated to preserve our treasures for future generations.

Conservators are highly educated and trained individuals who underwent years of studies in science, chemistry, history, ethics, art, to name but a few. They are also highly trained in preventive conservation: They maintain the best environment for art and artifacts by providing a stable storage, ensuring the correct light levels, controlling the temperature, humidity, safety and other potential damaging agents. They have a deep understanding of indoor pollutants and toxicity and must be prepared in emergency preparedness.

Art conservators ensure non-invasive and non-destructive methods of analysis and preventive conservation. Their art conservation treatments consist of stabilization or maintaining of the artwork’s integrity and minimizing deterioration, and of restoration, which is intended to return objects to a known or assumed state. When choosing an art conservator, it is advised to make sure they are AIC Professional Associates (American Institute for Conservation).  

Conservators employ methods of reversible stabilization. All added materials are isolated from the original so that they remain detectable and may be removed with no ill effect to the artwork.

The terms “conservation” and “restoration” are often used interchangeably. Yet, although their techniques and methods go hand in hand, there are significant difference between art conservation and restoration, such as the education of the professionals and the treatment approaches used.

Art conservation is a discipline that aims at preserving and protecting our cultural heritage and artworks from future damage and deterioration. 

Art Conservators are highly trained professionals. They graduated from accredited graduate programs that offered them an interdisciplinary education in history, art, chemistry, material science and more, in addition to practical experience in art conservation and restoration.

Art conservation aims at ensuring long-term preservations of artworks and embraces art restoration, preventive conservation as well as remedial conservation. Conservation activities include examination, documentation, treatment, and preventive care.

Art restoration, by contrast, denotes the repair or renovation of artworks. It is a generic term that may include any process that will make the artwork look better or work again. Contrarily to an art conservator, and art restorer may sometimes use irreversible materials to remove or cover up signs of wear and use.

Art restorers don’t generally have an academic background and gain experience through apprentice. Hence, an art restorer lacks the scientific knowledge that an art conservator has.  

So, while art restoration aims at making an artwork look better, art conservation wants to preserve the artist’s original intention and the history of the piece, while making it usable again.

Preserving treasures for future generations begins with correct day-to-day maintenance efforts. Preventive conservation is highly recommended as it can extend the life of your artwork considerably. It can reduce if not eliminate the need for interventive treatments. Preventive conservation is an ongoing process.

If you want to learn more how to care for your treasures, the American Institute for Conservation has prepared carefully detailed guides for you, whether you want to care for your paintings, books, ceramics, photographs, furniture, or more. Click here now

Stella Art Conservation first examines the artwork and conducts research to gather as much information about the artwork itself, the style, techniques, and materials used. Then we assess the project scope and time-to-completion as well as the necessary methodologies, techniques, storage conditions, equipment, tools, and materials to be used.

We usually examine the art here at the laboratory in order to provide you with an accurate treatment protocol and an estimate. This initial examination is free of charge and there is no obligation to proceed with the restoration.

If requested, Stella Art Conservation is happy to assist with arranging the transportation of the painting to our laboratory. However, please note that the transportation fee is at the client’s expense.

The restoration work begins upon approval of the client.

Absolutely. We offer services to individuals and art lovers, as well as national and international galleries, private and corporate collectors, art advisors, fine art storage facilities, art dealers and auction houses, museums, insurance companies, art appraisers, interior design firms.

After your approval to proceed with the restoration of your artwork, you will need to sign the proposal for conservation/ estimate and guarantee a minimum deposit of 50% of the total cost to begin the work. 

At Stella Art Conservation we feel honored to restore sentimental paintings and artifacts. We believe that the value of an artwork lies in the eyes and hearts of its owner. So, whether your item is part of your family heritage, or a high-value artwork, we will care for your treasure with the highest attention.

We do work on-site, depending on the location, conditions of the premises and of the painting. On-site consultations can also be provided for condition reports, large-scale and/or highly valuable projects,  and collection examination or surveys.      

Our Clients Services will be happy to offer assistance with transporting your piece to our Laboratory. Please contact us at (561) 346-3402. We receive artworks from across North America and Europe.

Absolutely. Check out our glossary page for a quick and easy reference.