RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION STEPS
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CONSULTATION
The first step in the process is to view the artwork in the studio with the clients present.
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A thorough in-person examination is essential to accurately assess the condition of your artwork or object. Many conservation issues—such as surface instability, structural damage, or prior restoration—can only be properly identified through close physical inspection by a trained conservator.
Seeing the piece in person allows us to evaluate materials, techniques, and vulnerabilities, which directly inform the proposed treatment methods, timeline, and pricing.
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If in-person examination is not possible photos can be emailed with a wide price range given over the phone. Special circumstances can be made for an on-site consultation if the project demands it. All in-studio consultations and estimates are free of charge.
A timeline for completion of the work will also be shared with the client.
EXAMINATION and PROPOSAL
After a 50% deposit is made on the project a full examination of the artworks will be performed. This includes assessing the condition of the artworks and test of materials to guide the conservation process. A complete understanding of all artworks is necessary as no two works or restoration techniques are ever the same.
If requested, once the examination is complete a conservation proposal will be created and sent to the client. The proposal will state all the work that needs to be completed to address any issues that were found during the examination. ​
RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION
Your artworks will be well taken care of in the studio and clients will be called upon completion of the work. Before and after photos will also be shared. A complete treatment report can be written upon request.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below are answers to some of the more commonly asked questions. If more information or clarification is needed please feel free to contact Melissa by email.
​HOW MUCH DOES RESTORATION/CONSERVATION COST?
Treatment is priced based on an hourly rate and the materials required. Each treatment proposal includes an itemized breakdown of services after examination and testing. Because every piece is unique, the cost will vary depending on complexity and condition.
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We work with items of both sentimental and monetary value. Whether your piece is a family heirloom or a high-value artwork, it will receive the same meticulous care and attention.
CAN YOU GIVE ME AN ESTIMATE OVER THE PHONE OR EMAIL?
Generally it's impossible to provide estimates over the phone. It is however possible to begin the conversation via email provided that good quality photographs are included in the message. Often times the photos do not reveal the information necessary to understand the condition of the artwork but that's not to say that they can't be a great starting point. So start with this email.
​WILL CHANEY FINE ART COME TO MY LOCATION TO VIEW ARTWORK AND DO WORK?
That depends on where you're located and the conditions of the premises and artwork. A fee for travel and work outside of CFA will be included in your estimate.
CAN CHANEY FINE ART TELL ME THE VALUE OF MY ART?
No. To avoid ethical conflicts of interest, we do not provide appraisals or authenticate artwork. However, we can help you connect with a qualified independent appraiser through professional organizations like the American Society of Appraisers or the International Society of Appraisers.
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CAN I REQUEST A CONDITION REPORT WITHOUT PROCEEDING WITH TREATMENT?
Yes. We can provide standalone condition reports for documentation, insurance, or legal purposes.
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HOW IS MY ARTWORK STORED DURING TREATMENT?
Artwork is housed in our secure, climate controlled area and protected with museum-quality, archival materials. Storage fees are assessed per item per month based on size and begin 15 days after your treatment proposal or final invoice is issued.
DOES CHANEY FINE ART WORK WITH INSURANCE CLAIMS?
Yes, we are happy to work with your insurance company to address any claims relating to damaged artwork you may have. A complete estimate and treatment proposal can be sent to your insurance company if requested. In the past CFA has helped its clients work through minor incidents such as contractor mishaps, fire and flood damage.
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IS WORK COMPLETED BY CHANEY FINE ART REVERSIBLE?
Yes, all materials used by CFA are fully reversible, archival and specifically designed for conservation.
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