Freckles, sun bleaching, burnt and mold - one would think we were having a conversation with a dermatologist! But theses are just some of the terms that have taken on new meaning for the students and restoration professionals who are learning the art of taking an old print and bring it back to life.

This isolated process is not well known to many restorers, let alone framers, who constantly come across pieces of artwork in need of attention.

The most recent round of classes was held in West Palm Beach, FL., under the guidance and tutelage of Arnie Landsman, AOR member. Landsman operates his business in Ormond Beach, FL., and is a retired surgeon with a degree in biochemistry. Retirement - yeah, right! If he only knew what was in store for him!

Arnies's first career was saving lives; his second is saving artwork. He dispensed his wealth of knowledge to students who previously could only receive this kind of information through a degree program at an institution of higher learning. Over a course of just three days, more than a dozen pieces of artwork that were given up for lost emerged with a new, pristine look and life!

One piece that received care and attention was a print by the artist Louis Icart (1888 - 1950). Icarts are highly sought after as print items. Mounted and in perfect condition, they can fetch $20,000 or more. In this particular image, there was more freckling (brown spots, also referred to as "foxing") than white showing.

In order to correct a print in which there was more freckling than art, the piece had to be dipped in solution. Working outside, in the direct sunlight, enhances the efficiency of the chemicals. Special bleaches were used, chemicals were added to de-acidify the paper and special rinses were given to make the artwork all squeaky-clean.

In another project, an original Rembrandt print was removed from a mounting that had deteriorated. It was allowed to soak, the glue loosened up, and it was laid out to dry. Once it is remounted, the client will be able to once again enjoy a piece of the past in perfect condition.

The great part about dipping art into chemicals is that the piece becomes whole again. With proper archival mounting, prints restored with chemistry will way outlast any other printed art. The paper is brought to a proper PH level and de-acidified. And, mold or any other deteriorating debris no longer inhabits the space.

The AOR conducts classes throughout the year in many areas of restoration, including antique frame, oil painting, ceramic / glass, furniture and more. For more information visit the AOR's webite at: www.assoc-restorers.com