I am often asked by potential clients what to expect; below is a general outline of the entire process.

Initial Consultation                  

An appointment is scheduled for the artwork to be brought into studio space in Georgetown (Washington, DC) that is free of charge or obligation. If possible, a client should be present so that I can discuss the object’s needs with him/her firsthand. Where it is not possible or practical to examine the artwork at the studio, and travel and/or an on-site visit is required, a fee will be charged.

At the initial consultation, a preliminary physical examination of the art or artifact is performed during which the condition of the piece will be discussed as well as desired goals in treatment and realistic outcomes. If possible, a written estimate outlining a general course of treatment along with the cost will be generated at the conclusion of the meeting; otherwise, a written estimate will be sent within a reasonable amount of time to a prospective client. When additional time is required by the conservator for the initial examination and/or the generation of the estimate, a receipt will be given to the owner while the artwork remains in our care. If a significant amount of time is required beyond that initial examination for the extant of damage to be determined and therefore an estimate to be generated, there will be a fee for the expense based on the hourly rate of the studio unless otherwise waived in written arrangement with Steven Pickman Objects Conservation, LLC. Following presentation of the written estimate and where the artwork has remained within the studio space, after (15) calendar day it will be understood that the client does not wish to proceed with the firm at that time and object(s) must be picked up from the conservator or be returned at the potential client’s expense.

Examination and Pre-treatment Documentation:               

Following an expression of client's interest, an in-depth examination of the artwork will be undertaken at the studio space from which will be produced a detailed Condition Report and Treatment Proposal (occasionally, when circumstances warrant, two or three different treatment options, each with its own itemized cost, may be offered.) Two sets of the report/proposal as well as a service agreement will be sent to a client for approval – one set will be for you to keep for your own records and the second set is to be sent back to me signed along with a check for a percentage of overall treatment as detailed in the service agreement according to a designated payment schedule. This report and service agreement should be read carefully and if any questions remain for a client, he/she/they should feel free to contact me for clarification. If subsequent authorization for conservation treatment is given, there is no separate charge for examination and report. If, however, you elect not to authorize treatment, you will be invoiced a modest report fee.

Treatment and Post-treatment Documentation:

In the course of treatment, any additional issues that become apparent will be brought immediately to the client's attention and amendments will have the Client's written approval prior to any changes in the proposed course of treatment. Upon completion of the treatment, a Treatment Report will be provided. This report, as well as the artwork, will be released upon full payment of the remaining balance by the Client.

Cost:

The overall cost of a conservation treatment is based on the number of hours of required work multiplied by an hourly rate + an additional line item for any supplies needed specific to the treatment.