Paintings Conservation and Restoration

The paintings conservation and restoration field covers artworks from the early paintings in the Fourteenth Century to the work of contemporary artists, and embraces a broad range of materials and techniques. From the old egg tempera technique to the contemporaneous acrylic painting, there are a wide variety of conservation techniques that can be applied according to the necessities of each unique artwork.

Among the primary Painting Conservation and Restoration treatments it can be mentioned the structural conservation of the supports (canvas, panels, metal plates or contemporary composite materials), the delicate cleaning of surfaces, removal of darkened or yellowed varnishes (including, if necessary, the elimination of old overpaints) and the filling and reintegration of losses. At South Florida Art Conservation, the Paintings conservation and restoration field is one of our top specialties.

At South Florida Art Conservation, we specialize in paintings conservation and restoration—from centuries-old oil portraits to contemporary mixed media works. Our West Palm Beach studio offers museum-grade treatments designed to preserve the integrity, beauty, and historical significance of each piece.

Paintings are among the most vulnerable forms of fine art, often subject to environmental damage, aging materials, and improper handling. Paintings conservation approach begins with a thorough condition assessment, using high-resolution imaging to identify issues such as flaking paint, discolored varnish, surface grime, or structural instability. Every treatment plan is customized to the artwork’s medium, age, and condition, and guided by ethical standards that prioritize reversibility and respect for the artist’s intent.
We serve a wide range of clients, including private collectors, galleries, estates, and institutions. Whether restoring a cherished family heirloom or preparing a painting for exhibition or sale, our team combines scientific precision with artistic sensitivity to deliver results that honor both the artwork and its story.

Paintings conservation lab

Common Issues we Address in Paintings Conservation

  • Surface dirt and discoloration
  • Yellowed or degraded varnish
  • Paint loss and flaking
  • Canvas tears or deformations
  • Mold, mildew, or water damage
  • Overpainting or previous restoration errors
  • Painting Cleaning and Stabilization: We use pH-balanced solutions and micro-tools to gently remove contaminants while preserving original materials.
  • Structural Repair: Treatments may include re-lining, edge repair, or canvas tensioning to restore physical integrity.
  • Chromatic Reintegration: Using reversible pigments and optical blending, we reintegrate areas of loss to restore visual harmony without compromising authenticity.
  • Protective Coatings: Conservation-grade varnishes and isolating layers are applied to support long-term preservation and future treatment flexibility.
  • Each step is documented with photographs, ensuring transparency and providing clients with a clear understanding of the process and outcome.

Why Choose SFLAC for your Paintings Conservation

Our studio is equipped with tools, materials, and workspaces that support precision and safety. We maintain strict adherence to professional codes of ethics, including those set by the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), and we collaborate with specialists when needed to ensure the highest level of care.
Clients appreciate our discretion, responsiveness, and ability to tailor services to their needs. Whether you’re managing a museum collection or restoring a single painting, we treat every project with the same level of dedication and respect.

Before tratmentAfter Treatment

Consultation and Next Steps

We welcome inquiries from collectors, curators, and families seeking expert guidance. To begin, simply contact us or use our secure upload form to share images of your artwork. We’ll review the condition, discuss treatment options, and provide a treatment proposal tailored to your goals and the unique caracteristics of your painting.
Preserving a painting is more than a technical task—it’s an act of stewardship. At South Florida Art Conservation, we’re honored to help protect the legacy of fine art for future generations.