Painting Conservation Techniques and Materials

Paul Gratz’s presentation on art conservation will explain how the combination of modern techniques with Old World craftsmanship offers the finest in treatment for oil paintings, murals, and gilt objects. Truly skilled art conservation preserves as much as possible of the original art itself, and therefore preserves its utmost value. Conservation treatment restores original radiance, color, and detail to treasured oil paintings and art objects, adding years of life and maximum value to even the most damaged artwork.

Mr. Gratz is the owner of Gratz Gallery & Conservation Studio, Inc. Under his leadership, the gallery has represented American artists with numerous exhibitions and publications for over four decades. Most recently, Mr. Gratz started representation of an extensive collection of works by American Modernist, female painter, Peter Miller. The collection of over 220 works went through his careful art conservation and is accompanied by a monograph on the artist published by Mr. Gratz in cooperation with art historian Francis M. Naumann.

Gratz Gallery has been a trusted representative for private collectors and museums in the expansion and upgrade of their fine American art collections. Over the years, Gratz Gallery has successfully sold to and represented a long list of renowned art organizations and private collectors, and assisted in exhibitions with fellow galleries and Fine Art Museums.

Mr. Gratz has been a private conservator for 40 years, working with Princeton University Art Museum for 30 years, providing conservation services for private collectors, prestigious national museums, and art organizations. The Conservation Studio specializes in the conservation and restoration of oil paintings and gilt frames.

Mr. Gratz’s formal training began at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and was developed through various apprenticeships with some of the nation’s most respected art conservators. While attending the Academy, Mr. Gratz studied with the esteemed Louis Sloane, the conservator and artist Joseph Amarotico, and the unparalleled instructor, Arthur DeCosta. Paul Gratz was a founding member of the Society of Gilders.

This event is free for members. Non-members are also welcome to attend, and donations are always appreciated.