Painting Conservation & Restoration.Oil on copper.
Art Conservation & Restoration Sergey Konstantinov
Art studio Sergey Konstantinov
www.mindspring.com/~fineart3
http://artstudiosergeykonstantinov.blogspot.com/
fineart3@mindspring.com
skype-sergey.konstantinov2
415 928 8290
What is the difference between a CONSERVATOR and a RESTORER.
Many people are confused about the difference between an art conservator and a restorer. To the layperson there is seemingly no difference and the terms are used interchangeably. However, this is very much not the case and the gulf between "restoration" and "conservation" is rapidly widening. Art conservators are generally academically trained to at least the level of a Master's degree (M.A.C. – Master’s of Art Conservation – see FAQ on Where do I get conservation training?). They have training in the scientific, art historical and artistic aspects and requirements of works of art. Fine art conservation is relatively new (only the last 50-60 years, since WWII) whereas restoration has arguably existed since the beginning of the creation of art when artists restored their own or others' works. Restorers tend to have been trained as artisans (often apprenticed to artists) or have learned by experience. This type of learning is a necessary but not sufficient condition to treat works of art in a manner that will reliably ensure their survival.
Conservators attempt to perform the minimum treatment necessary and use as many reversible materials as possible – this is considerably different than a restoration approach. Conservation addresses the work of art not only from the aesthetic but from a materials point of view. The structure of a work of art must be thoroughly understood and preserved in order to preserve the image.
American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works.
