With age, a painting can darken, varnish can yellow, and dirt can accumulate on the surface. There are many surface chemistry reactions as well as physical reactions that occur between the varnish/paint/ground interfaces. Exposure to moisture, from high humidity or a sudden flood, can loosen the bond between paint and canvas, causing the paint to lift and fall away. Smoke can leave layers of residue on a painting, which flattens the perception of the image and diminishes the dimensional quality of the forms. And then there is the most prevalent damage of all, human negligence in handling, storage, display, and even restoration.

Fortunately, most paintings, even those that appear to be ruined, can be conserved. But the process requires experienced, program-trained conservators who understand the subtle balance between chemistry and art.

Fine art conservation is divided into specific areas of expertise. Conserving a painting or drawing, is in essence problem solving related to the “substrate” or, material on which the piece is executed. The techniques for treating a watercolor on paper are usually very different from those used to treat a painting on canvas. Conservation is divided into the specific areas of paintings, works on paper, textiles, sculpture, furniture, rare books, photographs, and archaeological/decorative objects.

Choosing the right conservator to look after a whole collection or one item is an important decision; the wrong choice could result in permanent damage affecting visual qualities, monetary value and historical or cultural significance.