How to Find an Art Conservator

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Research your own collection.

   Know what you have and how old it is.
   
   If you have been unable to do this on your own, consult with museums or find curators or other professionals that may know.
   
   Many can help identify art from good digital photos.
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   Step 2: Document your art.

   Start a folder for each object and keep all documents together like receipts, certificates, historical notes or labels, and old photos.
   
   Learn how to take good digital photos yourself and include some sort of scale in the picture, or record measurements in three directions.
   
   You should be documenting your collections for insurance purposes anyway.
   
   Take close-up pictures of maker's marks, interesting details or damage for future comparisons. ,,, A good appraiser can give you an idea of market value, but only you can decide if it is worth it to you.
   
   Some things to remember are that artworks often become important heirlooms to later family members.
   
   Broken/damaged art usually has little market value and can be reminders of painful events.
   
   Finally, if we own important historical or artistic works, it is our duty to look after them properly.
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   Step 3: Ask for referrals to good art conservators from museums

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   Step 4: historical societies

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   Step 5: or other organizations responsible for cultural material.

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   Step 6: Go to the website of the AIC (American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works) http://www.conservation-us.org where you can find links to helpful information about caring for your artifacts

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   Step 7: about choosing a conservator

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   Step 8: and even an online registry of professional art conservators in your region.

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   Step 9: Eventually

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    Step 10: you will need to decide if your art is worth the expense of having it treated professionally.

Detailed Guide

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