Restoration
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Restoration Project
I had the pleasure of helping a gentleman restore a lithograph from the early 1960s that had suffered from deep scratches and deterioration. Despite working with limited resources, I skillfully cleaned the lithograph and delicately applied a thin paint mixture to fix the scratches. During the entire restoration process, I quietly prayed and remained confident in my abilities. To ensure its longevity, I sealed the lithograph with a UV finish and meticulously matched the frame’s color to a stain that I had prepared.
When the gentleman returned to see the final result, he was overwhelmed with emotions. This lithograph held immense sentimental value as a cherished family heirloom that had been discarded by his sister and later recovered by him through dumpster diving. Witnessing his joy and satisfaction with the outcome of the project brought me great happiness as well. I was grateful to have played a part in preserving an important piece of his family history.
Slide example for restoration project
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Four Roses
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Restoration Project
I had the pleasure of helping a gentleman restore a lithograph from the early 1960s that had suffered from deep scratches and deterioration. Despite working with limited resources, I skillfully cleaned the lithograph and delicately applied a thin paint mixture to fix the scratches. During the entire restoration process, I quietly prayed and remained confident in my abilities. To ensure its longevity, I sealed the lithograph with a UV finish and meticulously matched the frame’s color to a stain that I had prepared.
When the gentleman returned to see the final result, he was overwhelmed with emotions. This lithograph held immense sentimental value as a cherished family heirloom that had been discarded by his sister and later recovered by him through dumpster diving. Witnessing his joy and satisfaction with the outcome of the project brought me great happiness as well. I was grateful to have played a part in preserving an important piece of his family history.
Local Artist
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Preservation Project
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Museum Restoration
I recently restored a 1980s poster for a client, but I must admit, I was quite enamored with it and wished it was mine! The poster is a masterpiece and is valued between $75,000 and $100,000. Regardless, I was sure to give it the love and care it deserves!
I couldn't be more thrilled! It's been rolled up in a tube for 30 years waiting for this moment! Thank you for the love you gave it! It may be our retirement piece!
ART ALLEY AND FRAME CLINIC
Preservation Project
When entrusted with the delicate task of restoring a precious artifact, I embark on a journey to preserve its history and bring its beauty back to life. Recently, I had the privilege of working on a document from 1922, a cherished diploma belonging to a client’s grandfather.
Upon receiving the document, it was clear that time had taken its toll. Enclosed in an old frame with clear glass, a mat containing acid, and a cardboard backing filled with the same corrosive substance, the document was exceptionally fragile. I knew that swift action was necessary to safeguard its integrity.
With great care, I delicately removed the document from its aging confinement, revealing its faded ink and delicate structure. A closer examination revealed that it had adhered to the cardboard backing using horse glue, a practice common during that era. Such craftsmanship had its charm, but it posed a threat to the document’s longevity.
Determined to revive its glory, I set to work. The first step was to eliminate the harmful acid from the backing to prevent further deterioration. With precision and expertise, I skillfully treated the backing, ensuring the document’s protection for years to come.
The cardboard backing, weakened over time, needed to be replaced with a more durable and acid-free alternative. Carefully, I selected an acid-free paper that would serve as a stable foundation for the document, guaranteeing its preservation for future generations.
The restoration process demanded an artistic touch, and to conceal the damage while enhancing the writing’s legibility, I chose an acid-free black mat. Its elegance not only added a touch of sophistication to the diploma but also created a striking contrast, making the writing stand out with renewed clarity.
One of the challenges I faced was the presence of blank lines and fading ink, making it difficult to read the valuable content. As an experienced restorer, I took on this task with dedication, using my expertise to bring the document back to life. The once-diminished writing now emerged with renewed prominence, allowing the reader to connect with the past and relive the memories inscribed upon it.
Upon completion of the restoration, I presented the revitalized diploma to the client. Witnessing the joy and gratitude in her eyes was truly rewarding. Preserving her grandfather’s legacy for posterity was not only a duty but a passion that fuels my commitment to the art of restoration.
As a restorer, my capabilities extend beyond the technical aspects of the craft. With each project, I embark on a journey to honor the stories locked within artifacts, weaving together the threads of the past with meticulous care and reverence. I take pride in my ability to breathe life into aged relics, ensuring that the essence of history remains alive and cherished for generations to come.
Preservation Methods
Preservation goes hand in hand with restoration. We use archival-grade materials and conservation techniques to protect the restored item from further damage. This may involve using acid-free materials, UV-filtering glass or acrylic, and proper framing practices to prevent humidity or temperature fluctuations.
Art Conservation
Memorabilia Preservation
Document Restoration
Artwork Cleaning and Preservation
Brenda Gardner
Brenda Gardner, the owner of The Art Alley and Frame Clinic, is a skilled artisan and restoration expert who is well-versed in various restoration techniques. We provide exceptional restoration and preservation services that focus on reviving and preserving artwork, photographs, and other valuable items that may have been damaged, old, or deteriorated. Our services are essential in protecting and extending the life of sentimental and historically significant pieces, ensuring they can be cherished and enjoyed by future generations.
The first step in our art restoration process involves a comprehensive assessment of the artwork. Our restoration experts carefully examine the piece to identify any damages, deterioration, or areas that require attention. We document the current condition of the artwork through detailed photographs and notes.
We thoroughly discuss with the client to understand their goals and expectations for the restoration. We listen to their specific concerns and desires regarding the artwork's preservation and enhancement. Understanding the client's vision helps us tailor our restoration approach accordingly.
We develop a detailed action plan for the art restoration based on the assessment and the client's goals. This plan outlines the restoration techniques, materials, and processes we will employ to address the artwork's specific needs. We present this plan to the client for their approval and feedback.
Our team commences the restoration work once the client approves the restoration plan. Our skilled artisans and conservators diligently work to restore the artwork to its former glory, carefully following the agreed action plan. We maintain open communication with the client throughout the process, providing updates on the progress and any significant findings.
We have created a four-step process guaranteeing our clients a smooth and successful art restoration experience. Our exceptional results bring new life to their treasured artworks while preserving their inherent value and beauty.
Art Installation
Assisting customers with the professional hanging and installation of framed artwork in their homes or businesses is available upon consultation.
We offer services for individuals, artists, art collectors, businesses, museums, and anyone who wants to professionally protect and display their cherished artwork or objects in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Adding the right frame to a piece of artwork is definitely the cherry on the cake! I'm not a frame expert, but I am lucky enough to know one who has decades of experience. She can choose a frame for you that will make these artworks museum ready!
Besides working closely with me and my work, she accepts local and out-of-state orders. There's no one I trust more with my artwork. Please check out Art Alley & Frame Clinic for your frame and restoration needs!
