Synopsis

How often have you stood in front of a painting and thought I should like this, but I just don’t? The artwork may be too dark to see the subject matter properly.  Water, fire, accidents (a foot through the canvas), damp, mould, air pollution, sunlight, acidity all affect our appreciation of a piece of art.  Then the frame might be too ornate, heavy or in poor condition.  During this Study Day, renowned conservator, Julia Korner, reveals how to bring fine art to life through appropriate repairing & restoration, framing and mounting.

 

The morning will start with a step-by-step session on how oil paintings can be cleaned and conserved using ancient techniques as well as state-of-the art equipment like x-ray machines & UV lamps.  After the break, Julia discusses different gilding techniques & framing ideas as well as whether to mount or not to mount. She uses a range of slides and props from her studio to demonstrate case studies.  These may include examples of her various commissions – subject to the owner’s permission. Guests are welcome to ask about museum pieces or her studio’s own work.

​

After lunch, if wished, guests may bring along their own paintings (only one each) so a selection can be appraised to the wider audience in a ‘Roadshow’ session. If you are puzzled by a picture’s subject matter, origin or wish to receive advice on its value and the best way to display it in its original glory, Julia will do her best to provide guidance.

​​

Profile

Julia Korner LSIAD, is a specialist and lecturer in fine art conservation & restoration including frames. She is a valuer, passionate collector, advisor & curator of works of art.

Julia studied as an illustrator and art historian in London & Cambridge before further training as conservator, carver and guilder. In 1978 she joined Christie’s as a paintings specialist where she built on her knowledge of Old Masters. She set up Christie’s Maritime Department followed by several other specialist sections. In 1997 she was elected Huntington Fellow of the Mariner’s Museum, Newport, New Virginia, USA.

Since then, Julia has worked independently training and build up her own team. Her studio undertakes specialist conservationist work. She acts as an advisor, valuer and curator for public and private collections.

Julia lectures for The Arts Society, Sotheby’s Institute, Christie’s Education and Fine Arts Societies across the UK and overseas.