Preserving The Past
McGannon Studios was established by Patrick McGannon in the Atlanta area nearly thirty years ago and offers complete museum quality conservation and restoration of paper artifacts. The wide array of works on paper that can be preserved include prints, drawings, watercolors, maps, pastels, historical and personal documents and paper memorabilia. Combining art and science, the conservators at McGannon Studios use our unique experience in paper conservation to preserve the history and beauty of all paper artifacts. Our clients include galleries, museums and private collectors nationwide. Please see the treatments page for images of artifacts that we have successfully treated and brought back to life.
Since the cost of treatments depends on the treatments required, an artifact must be examined before an estimate of treatment costs can be given. We do not charge for estimates. Artifacts that are presented for conservation are examined and tests will be made on all components if any treatment involving water or solvents is contemplated. We provide a written proposal with recommended treatments and cost estimates. All treatment options will be explained and their implications discussed. Please call to make an appointment to have your artifact examined at no cost.
People are generally aware that paintings, furniture and other artifacts can be successfully restored not just from age but also from major accidents and disasters. It is far less known that paper artifacts can also be successfully restored.
Paper artifacts of all kinds are possessed by just about everyone. Some of these may be valuable in a sentimental sense such as family letters and documents or they may be artifacts that are collectible and have a monetary value such as antique prints, drawings or watercolors. Often damaged pieces such as these are considered losses because their owners are not aware that paper can be restored effectively.
But paper is very resilient and much can be done to remove stains, dirt and glues from the fibers and return the piece back to its original condition.
This is an engraving by Giovanni Battista Piranesi called "Vedute Del Campidugliodio..." from his "Views Of Rome" series. It was badly damaged by water that stained the top of the paper and left the paper rippled and weak. The print was washed to remove the harmful stains and the weak paper was supported with Japanese tissue.