Below are answers to some of the more commonly asked questions. If more information or clarification is needed please feel free to contact BFAR via email or phone at 312-939-7630

Are estimates for conservation work free?

Yes, all estimates are free. After meeting, discussing the process of conservation and addressing any questions, an examination of the painting will be executed including any necessary tests to determine the best course of action. Following this a conservation proposal will be assembled and delivered. Upon review and pending approval work will begin.

Does BFAR work with insurance claims?

Yes, BFAR is happy to work with your insurance company to address any claims relating to damaged artwork you may have. In the past BFAR has helped its clients work through minor incidents and major disasters such as fire and flood.

Is BFAR insured?

Yes, BFAR is insured through Huntington T. Block and carries coverage for $500,000 on artworks. Larger valuations can be addressed on an individual basis. The studio is located in a secure building, alarmed and equipped with fire-suppression equipment.

Can BFAR help me with research and scientific analysis?

Yes, BFAR is equipped to conduct many technical and scientific tests including HRMS, infrared and UV photography, x-ray imaging and material analysis. BFAR can also assist in recommending qualified researchers who can assist in more in-depth work.

Can BFAR tell me the value of my art?

No, BFAR is not licensed as an appraisal service and maintains no interest in the value of the works being conserved. That said, referrals to trusted appraisers and researchers can be made.

Will BFAR come to my location to view artwork and do work?

That depends on where you're located and the conditions of the premises and artwork. Starting with an email or phone call at 312-939-7630 is a good first step.

Is BFAR accredited?

While there is no current accreditation system, BFAR is a long-time member of the American Institute of Conservation.

Are the materials and work BFAR does reversible?

Yes, all materials used by BFAR are fully reversible, archival and specifically designed for conservation. In addition, all of the work conducted is in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics.

Can you give me an estimate over the phone or email?

That depends. Generally it's impossible to provide estimates over the phone. It is however possible to begin the conversation via email provided that good quality photographs are included in the message. Often times the photos do not reveal the information necessary to understand the condition of the artwork but that's not to say that they can't be a great starting point. If in doubt it certainly can't hurt to send a message with photos via email

Can you perform conservation as well as restoration?

Yes. When BFAR was founded in the late 1970s the term "conservation" was new and hardly used, undefined and novel. In the recent years there has been a trend to differentiating restoration and conservation with conservation being more academic and scientific with a strict code of ethics and best practices and restoration being a lesser, more haphazard approach. What BFAR practices is both restoration and conservation in that all codes of ethics and best practices are followed regardless of what's being done to an artwork. If there are any questions about conservation or restoration feel free to contact BFAR.