Most art is delicate and potentially fragile. How you handle your art during and after a move can determine your future enjoyment of the piece(s) and their value.

For the past 20 years, we had hung a beautiful limited edition print on a wall in the basement. This was mostly because the wall was large enough for the piece and because we had tired of it in our every day living space. Several says ago, during a discussion about art and artists, I took a close look at the piece. I discovered some tiny black dots on the Japon paper.

The print, framed by conservation standards, was installed on an exterior below-grade wall. Regardless of the finish level of the wall, the structural cinder block must get moisture that was trapped by the art. SO now, mildew in the  paper of a pretty valuable piece of art.

Naturally, my first thought was to contact an art conservator and organize its restoration. This is where a whole new world of art services came alive. Art conservators do not conserve paper. They restore/clean paintings – oils, linen, canvas, and the like. Paper restorers handle prints on paper. Yes, the same experts that restore books, restore art prints.

You know that some art will appreciate over time. We just never know what piece(s) might become valuable in the future. Most people buy art for its aesthetic value and not so much for investment. However, sometimes artists gain in notoriety and if their work survives long enough in good condition, the value could increase.

If you want to both enjoy and preserve your art, handle it carefully and install it with consideration of potential moisture (even condensation that forms inside a sealed frame).

Should you need a conservator of antiques, paintings or paper, we have now amassed a list of conservators who can help and/or direct you to solving your. Some have performed work for us personally, others have been recommended and have significant credentials. Give us a call and we will gladly share our list.