Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services does McGlinchey Sexton Conservation offer?

We specialize in the preservation of cultural heritage, focusing on works of art on paper and photographs. Our services include conservation treatment or repair, consulting, education, conservation framing, and advanced imaging. We can repair physical damage, such as tears, planar distortions (ripples, cockling, creases), losses, discoloration and stains. We can reduce mold and provide guidance for materials that have been exposed to mold and water damage.

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​2. What kind of materials do you work on?

We provide treatment services on anything that is made with photographic techniques or on a paper support. We work on both artwork and historical materials. This includes (but is not limited to) works of art on paper, drawings, watercolor paintings, paintings on paper, documents, maps, newspapers, photographs, gelatin silver prints, black and white prints, color prints, chromogenic prints, c-prints, tintypes, daguerreotypes, digital prints, and negatives.

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3. What is art conservation?

Art conservation involves the restoration, preservation and repair of artworks and historical materials, such as paintings, drawings, prints, documents, textiles, sculptures, and decorative arts, that have been affected by time, damage, or environmental factors. Art conservation also encompasses the conservation of historical materials, not just expensive works of art. Conservators in private practice, like Jennifer, typically provide treatment services for something that has been damaged, or advice for how to prevent damage. Art conservators are professionals trained in the care and long term preservation of artwork through advanced university programs/degrees, or over time from other professionals, such as an apprenticeship. Art conservators specialize in a type of material, such as paper, photographs, textiles, paintings, sculpture, etc.

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4. How do I know if my artwork needs conservation?

If you notice changes in your artwork's appearance, such as discoloration, fading, stains, tears, or structural instability, it may require conservation. Regular assessments by a professional conservator are recommended to ensure the longevity of your pieces.

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5. How do I get a quote for conservation treatment or other services?

We can give a ballpark or rough estimate from photographs of your item. Please also include details about the item, especially the size and media. The best way to get an accurate quote is to make an appointment to bring your item for an assessment by our conservator. On our Community Assessment Days, this appointment is free for up to 30 minutes. If you need to schedule outside of that time, there is a small fee. See availability here: www.msartconservation.com/book-online. If you are unable to travel to our location, you may ship the item to us for assessment. Please contact us before shipping.

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6. How much does conservation treatment cost?

The cost of conservation treatment varies widely depending on the specific needs of each piece. Generally, treatments rarely cost less than $500. After an initial assessment, we provide a detailed proposal outlining the recommended treatment and associated costs.

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7. How long does the conservation process take?

The duration of the conservation process depends on the complexity and condition of the artwork. After evaluating your piece, we can provide an estimated timeline for the necessary treatments.

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​8. Will my item look better after treatment?

We try to give realistic expectations for the success of treatment at the time of the initial assessment and proposal for treatment. Generally, the goal of aesthetic treatments to improve the appearance of artwork, but it is usually not possible to completely remove staining or obscure damage. Damage may still be visible upon close inspection. Many factors influence the treatment of complex works, and the conservator will outline these as best as possible.

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9. How should I care for my art collection to prevent future damage?

To preserve your art collection:

• Keep artworks out of direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration.

• Use UV filtering glazing to minimize exposure to harmful UV rays.

• Avoid placing art near sources of heat, humidity, or moisture.

• Handle artworks carefully to prevent accidental damage.

• Use museum quality storage and framing materials.

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10. Do you offer educational workshops or courses?

Yes, we are committed to education and offer various workshops and courses related to art conservation. Please visit the 'Education' section on our website for current offerings and schedules.

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11. What is your approach to conservation?

Our highest priority is the long-term stability of artworks. We employ meticulous methods that adhere to the high professional standards outlined in the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. We aim to be as transparent as possible with our clients about the risks and expected outcomes of our work. We prioritize the long term stability and re-treatability  of the artwork. Our materials are always conservation quality and as reversible as possible.

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12. Why should I choose McGlinchey Sexton Conservation?

Jennifer McGlinchey Sexton is a highly trained art conservator with a fine-art photography background. Our studio treats every item as priceless and irreplaceable, earning the trust of numerous national and local institutions.

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13. Do you provide appraisals or determine the value of artworks?

No, we do not offer monetary appraisals or evaluations. Our focus is on the preservation and conservation of artworks, regardless of their market value. For appraisals, we recommend consulting a certified appraiser.

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14. Do you also provide framing services?

Yes, we use only museum quality materials and techniques. 

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15. Do you do digital restoration?

Yes, we can provide digital restoration in place of or in addition to conservation treatment. We work with local vendors to provide high quality digital inkjet prints, on request.

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16. What housing materials should I use for my collection?

Use materials that have passed the Photographic Activity Test (PAT), or meet International Standards Organization (ISO) standards for paper documents.

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17. How can I contact McGlinchey Sexton Conservation?

Our studio operates by appointment only in Colorado Springs, Colorado. You can reach us via email at msart@msartconservation.com or through the contact form on our website.

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18. Can I observe the conservation process?

While we prioritize the safety and focus required during conservation treatments, we are happy to document the process and share updates with you. This documentation can include photographs and detailed reports of the work being performed.

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19. What is the difference between art conservation and restoration?

Art conservation and art restoration are related but distinct fields within the preservation of cultural heritage. Conservation aims to preserve and prevent further damage. Restoration seeks to repair and return an artwork to a previous state.

Most museums and professional conservators prioritize conservation over restoration to maintain historical integrity, though restoration is sometimes necessary, especially for display purposes.

Art Conservation

• Focuses on preventative care and stabilization of artworks to ensure their long-term preservation.

• Uses scientific analysis to understand materials and deterioration processes.

• Involves non-invasive or minimal intervention techniques to slow decay.

• Emphasizes ethical standards like reversibility, meaning any treatments should be removable in the future if needed.

• Common tasks include climate control, pest management, surface cleaning, and structural reinforcement.

Art Restoration

• Focuses on repairing or reconstructing damaged or missing parts of an artwork to bring it closer to its original appearance.

• May involve more invasive techniques, such as repainting or filling in missing sections.

• Sometimes requires artistic interpretation to match the original style.

• Historically, restoration could be less concerned with reversibility, though modern restorers aim for ethical, reversible techniques when possible.