Modern Art Restoration

The modern art period is often cited as the years between 1870 and 1945. During this time, artists gradually abandoned traditional materials and techniques in favor of new industrially-manufactured materials. Additionally, they experimented with new pictorial techniques including new framing supports, using pools of pigment in paintings, applying generous layers of paint (impasto), and bypassing varnish completely. 

These artistic modifications can pose specific problems in conservation and will have to be restored as such. 

Traditional restoration techniques used for classical works need to be adapted and meet new technological standards for modern art.  Moisture and heat inputs (traditionally used in classical restoration) are typically not used for modern art or art used in controlled methods thanks to new innovative technologies such as the low pressure heating table, solvent gels, surface conductivity, etc.