For many art collection is more than just a hobby; it’s a passionate vocation, and one that will require a great deal of collaboration. The relationship between an art collector and an accredited art restorer should be a long-term union that eventually dissolves into shorthand. All vintage art needs a little TLC from time to time, so there is no getting away from the fact that you’ll need an accredited art restorer in your corner.
To find the perfect accredited art restorer for your needs, you should always take the time to conduct an interview and ensure that expectations and working practices are compatible. This doesn’t need to be anything too formal, but at the very least, ensure that these questions are answered to your satisfaction.
What is your speciality?
The first thing to check with an accredited art restorer is where their experience and expertise lies. The restoration and repair of classic art differs from the techniques used in modern or contemporary works. Ensure that your collection and the skill of the art restorer are aligned.
How much experience do you hold?
An accredited art restorer should hold an MA in the science at the very least, and several years of experience in restoring art. On paper, anybody could take a night school class – or even just watch a handful of YouTube videos! – and consider themselves ready to take on this challenge.
These people are not accredited art restorers and should thus be approached with care. You would not ask a mechanic without formal training to fix a sports car. The same logic applies to art.
Do you welcome client input?
The adage that “the customer is always right” very much applies to an accredited art restorer. Naturally, anybody that enters this line of work will have strong views about, and a natural appreciation for, all things pertaining to the world of art. These need to be parked in favour of what the owner of a painting wishes, though.
For example, many Old Master paintings have a comparatively muted colour palette due to the limitations of the equipment of the time. Some owners prefer an art restorer to make the colours “pop” a little more. If this is the case, ensure that your accredited art restorer of choice will meet this request.
What services will you not provide?
An extension of the point discussed above. An accredited art restorer should never refuse the requests of an art owner. If, to use your example above, an art restorer refuses to work to the parameters of your wishes, it’s best to look elsewhere. The word “no” should not feature in the vocabulary of an accredited art restorer.
If you are on the lookout for an accredited art restorer in London – or indeed beyond – do feel free to contact the Simon Gillespie gallery in New Bond Street. Here, you’ll find an experienced and friendly team of accredited art restorers that can talk you through the process in greater detail – and hopefully commence a new working relationship.
