Removing particulate contaminants from the surface or an art work can in some instances be enough to restore its visual vigor. This stage is also often the first stage in more complex and lengthy conservation treatments, removing dirt so it isn’t imbibed into the paper structure further.

Historically some artworks were adhered to backing boards in order to improve their structure or aesthetic. Boards and materials of varying qualities have been used which over time can become increasingly acidic and discoloured, posing risk to the artwork attached, that it was originally meant to protect, through migration of these acids.

Pressure Sensitive Tapes, the name given to a broad range of self adhesive tapes (sellotape and masking tape as examples) that require pressure for adhesion have been used widely by amateurs to repair tears in paper. Whilst the instant result can appear adequate, over time the adhesive can fail, repairs become brittle and components within the tape can migrate into the paper causing oily discolouration that can be difficult to remove.

Removing and neutralising weak acids present within the paper structure can make aesthetic improvements to an artwork as well as making it more chemically stable and reducing its rate of degradation. There are multiple washing techniques that can be employed depending on the type of paper and media on its surface. At Stubbs Conservation we carry out rigorous testing prior to any aqueous treatment to ensure that we match your artwork with the safest and most effective treatment option.

We use Japanese tissues and conservation grade adhesives to repair tears and lacunae in works of art. In some instances in order to provide more structural integrity to a work where it may have been torn or damaged beyond the ability for a simple tear repair to be suitable, we will line a work onto Japanese tissue to increase its ease of handling and its overall structural integrity.

Where loss of media has occurred we colour match and fill these losses in order to restore the aesthetic integrity of an art work. With rigorous documentation at the core of our practice, any non original additions to the design layer will be recorded for future reference.

We can provide full mounting and framing services, consulting with you, the client, as well as external frame makers to ensure that the aesthetic that you want is achieved as well as ensuring that your work of art is displayed in a way that adheres to the highest conservation standards.