Artwork Damage, Repairs & Restoration

When Something Precious Has Been Damaged, We’re Here to Help

Finding a treasured artwork or framed piece damaged can be incredibly upsetting.

Whether it’s a favourite painting, family photograph, limited edition print or cherished heirloom, accidents can happen when you least expect them. Broken glass, water damage, fire, transit accidents or everyday mishaps can leave you wondering whether anything can be done.

At Van Uffelen Gallery & Picture Framing, we’ve been helping customers through these situations for many years. Every project is different, but many damaged artworks and frames can be repaired, restored, reframed or stabilised.

The important thing is not to assume the damage is beyond repair before it has been properly assessed.

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Artwork Repairs • Frame Repairs • Restoration • Broken Glass • Trusted Since 1985

Common Types of Artwork Damage

Every damaged artwork has its own story, but there are some situations we see more regularly than others.

Broken Glass

Broken glazing is one of the most common reasons customers visit us. Whether caused during a house move, transport, storage or an accidental knock, shattered glass doesn’t always mean the artwork itself has been damaged.

Once the broken glazing has been safely removed, we can assess the condition of the artwork and recommend the most appropriate way forward.

Canvas Damage

Punctures, tears and impact damage to canvas can often appear far worse than they first seem.

Depending on the artwork and the extent of the damage, professional conservation treatment can often help to stabilise and repair such damage before the artwork is carefully reframed.

Fire & Smoke Damage

Fire doesn’t always destroy an artwork.

Smoke residue, soot, heat exposure and damage to the frame or glazing can often be addressed through a combination of professional conservation treatment, cleaning, reframing and, where necessary, replacement of damaged framing components.

Water & Flood Damage

Water can affect artwork in many different ways, from stained matboards and swollen timber frames to mould growth, cockled paper and damaged canvas.

Prompt assessment is important, as the sooner an artwork is examined, the greater the opportunity to minimise ongoing deterioration and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Working Alongside Trusted Specialists

Some projects require more than framing alone.

Where specialist conservation treatment is appropriate, we work alongside respected conservator Maria Batiz, whose expertise has helped restore many damaged artworks entrusted to our care.

Where independent valuations are required, we can also refer clients to Neil Roberts of Art Valuations, who provides professional valuation services for artworks and collections.

Working together allows us to bring together the right people for each project, ensuring every artwork receives the care and attention it deserves.

Repair, Restore or Reframe?

Every artwork presents different possibilities.

Sometimes the solution is as straightforward as replacing broken glass or a damaged frame. Other projects benefit from professional conservation treatment before being reframed. In some cases, original framing elements may be retained because they form an important part of the artwork’s history.

Our role is to assess the situation, explain the available options and help coordinate the most appropriate path forward.

Not Local?

We regularly assist customers throughout New Zealand.

Many projects begin with photographs emailed through to us, allowing an initial discussion before arrangements are made for the artwork to be brought or couriered safely to our Palmerston North workshop.