WhatsApp usAbout Fine Art Restoration Company
Fine Art Restoration Company is one of the UK’s leading conservation studios. Based in London and Cumbria, our mission is to restore and preserve the art of the nation, from culturally significant paintings to sentimental family heirlooms.
As well as serving many influential private clients from across the country, we have the honour of being the studio of choice for many public institutions, businesses and insurance companies. Previous and ongoing clients include Hiscox, Durham Cathedral, Westminster Council, Mandarin Oriental, the US Ambassador’s Residence, Farnborough Abbey and Powderham Castle.
Conservators And Specialists
Offering a bespoke approach to restoration for private clients and insurance companies, our team consists of conservators and experts from a wide variety of disciplines, including paintings, paper, sculpture, furniture, gilding and ceramics.
Sophie Mcaloone
Operations and Conservation Manager
Sophie leads our conservation team to ensure every treatment plan is ethical and accurate, she is an experienced Easel Painting Conservator with an eye for detail. Sophie’s qualifications include a BA in History of Art from Warwick and a MA in Conservation of Fine Art from Northumbria. Sophie has published work in the Picture Restorer, organised specialist workshops in our studio and given presentations at influential conferences.
Anna Rolph
Easel Painting Conservator
Following her BA (Hons) in Conservation of Cultural Heritage from the University of Lincoln, Anna went on to study the Conservation of Fine Art (MA) at Northumbria University, where her research focused on gel cleaning treatments for acrylic paintings. After volunteering for museums, galleries and completing work for studios and historic homes across the UK, Anna came to Fine Art Restoration Company where she is a key member of our painting conservation team.
Sabrina Rodi
Easel Painting Conservator
A graduate of Northumbria University’s MA in Painting Conservation, Sabrina gained experience through placements at The Laing Gallery, Bishop Auckland Palace and Brickhouse Conservation. She first joined us through a six-month ICON work placement and has since become a permanent and integral member of our paintings conservation team. Known for her keen eye, steady hand and thoughtful approach, Sabrina brings exceptional skill and steadfast dedication to every project she undertakes.
Amy Walsh
Ceramics and Objects Conservator
Coming to us from Australia, Amy is an expert in all aspects of object conservation. Her qualifications include an MA in Objects Conservation from the University of Melbourne and a diploma in the Conservation of Ceramics from West Dean College. Amy previously worked for Australia's largest private conservation practice, as well as the Australian National Maritime Museum and State Library of New South Wales. She has also been part of archaeological excavations in Italy and Greece.
Wiktor Kosik
Specialist Objects, Furniture and Frame Conservator
After completing a degree in Easel Painting Conservation, Wiktor developed a passion for ornate frames. Frame restoration has since become the heart of his work, leading him to study the historic craft of gilding under renowned tutors. His expertise expanded further after mastering the art of French polishing, entering the complex world of antique furniture restoration.
Frank Libal
Furniture and Frame Conservator
Beginning his career as a wood carver and furniture restorer in Czechia, Frank went on to study conservation with a focus on polychrome panels. In Czechia, Frank worked in chapels and castles, restoring everything from carved angels to rococo style chairs. He came to our studio as a frame specialist and has since branched out into many of his areas of experience, including developing further skills in furniture repair and French polishing.
Tom Burton
Frame Technician and Art Handler
Tom has been part of our studio since he was 16, coming to us as an apprentice from a college carpentry course. Being part of our team opened his eyes to new possibilities, realising a new passion for gilt frame restoration. Tom is now a key member of our frame workshop, as well as a frequent assistant to our art handlers when they are on the road.
Dean Albutt
Objects and Furniture Specialist
With decades of experience in the repair of toys, furniture and unusual objects, Dean is always looking for his next project. With a dedicated approach to each item, his work is some of the most intricate in our studio. Recent projects include the restoration of rigging on a miniature ship and the revival of fibreglass statues from world-famous city sculpture trails.
James
Paper Conservator
(ICON accredited)
James is an ICON accredited conservator with over 30 years of experience in paper conservation. His training includes a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, followed by a diploma in Conservation of Works of Art on Paper and a PhD in Conservation Science. Throughout his career, James has worked for many high profile clients as well as organisations such as the National Trust and English Heritage.
Louisa
Conservation Intern
Louisa is completing an ICON internship with our studio, where she is developing her practical conservation skills and gaining hands-on experience across a range of studio projects. She supports the team with technical examination and documentation and undertakes complex treatment processes. Louisa approaches every project with enthusiasm, bringing a strong commitment to professional development, attention to detail and a thoughtful, professional presence in the studio.
Maria
Conservation Intern
Maria is an Easel Painting Conservator undertaking an ICON internship to broaden her hands-on studio experience and deepen her practical treatment skills. She contributes to the conservation team through careful condition reporting and treats paintings with gentle precision. With a calm, focused approach and strong attention to detail, Maria works sensitively with each painting in her care.
Office Team
Chris
Technical Director
As the son of an artist, Chris has always been immersed in the importance of art in our daily lives. After running galleries alongside his wife Anna, the pair decided to branch out into a business that had a stronger impact on people's lives. The development of Fine Art Restoration Company has been and continues to be an inspiring journey. Chris leads all of the larger scale projects as a technical director, including the reclamation and restoration of Banksy street art.
Anna
Accounts Director
As a director of the business, you will find Anna leading our office team to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction through a seamless service. As well as overseeing the finances, Anna arranges our complex route planning to guarantee a swift collection and delivery for all of our clients - no matter where they are in the country. Anna also leads our social calendar with plenty of outings and activities throughout the year.
Violet
Business Development & Partnerships Manager
Violet builds our relationships across the art world with a warm and client-focused approach. She’s committed to supporting every part of the sector, from private collectors to large organisations, ensuring partners feel listened to and well looked after. Violet holds a degree in History of Art from the University of York and has shaped her career around business development and client partnerships in the cultural sector.
Janine
Key Account Executive
Janine loves to speak to clients about their artwork, ensuring that every project is truly personal and bespoke to their specific needs. After studying Modern Languages at university, with a focus on Italian and Russian, Janine has spent a great deal of time immersing herself in the visual culture of the world. In our office, Janine takes great pride in delivering a seamless and sensible service from start to finish.
Joanne
Key Account Executive
Joanne brings valuable expertise to client care and service coordination. Her impressive background spans sales and account management, business operations and customer liaisons. Joanne takes pride in making each project feel truly personal and bespoke, ensuring every client feels supported and understood throughout their artwork’s restoration journey.
Jenny
Client Care Manager
Jenny has been a key part of our office for many years and is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to the restoration process. As the liaison between our studio and office staff, Jenny will always have updates for you as she oversees each stage of the work. After studying English Literature at university, Jenny worked for Oxford University Press before returning home to Cumbria, where you will find her in our flagship studio.
Danielle
Lead Art Historian
As our Lead Art Historian, Danielle has produced over 200 articles and case studies for our website, covering everything from ancient terracotta to modern paintings. She also leads our educational outreach, giving talks at some of the most prestigious universities in the UK. Danielle’s background includes a degree in History of Art alongside many roles focused on research, client services and technology.
Katy
Client & Logistics Coordinator
Katy plays a vital role in welcoming clients and coordinating the safe transport of their artworks and treasured objects. With a strong background in customer service, she is committed to providing a seamless and supportive experience from initial enquiry to final delivery. Katy brings genuine enthusiasm for art and history to the team, an interest sparked by previous volunteer work at a local museum.
Lauren
Personal Assistant
Lauren is PA to the Directors, supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the studio by coordinating behind-the-scenes logistics, managing office administration and overseeing all communication. Highly organised and proactive, she keeps everything on track while bringing a warm, personable presence to the team.
Jade
Studio Assistant
Jade completed a Fine Art degree at Northumbria University before joining our studio. Her interests include seeking out treasures in charity shops, especially retro ceramics and art. Constantly on her feet, Jade is on top of everything that happens in our studio and ensures that everything is in its rightful place. Acting as a concierge for the many objects that stay with us, Jade welcomes them at the beginning of their restoration and prepares them for departure at the end.
Logisitics Team
Mat
Art Handler and Driver
When he’s not on the road, you will find Mat on the studio floor leading our logistical team. His detail oriented approach ensures that every item is stored, wrapped and returned with the utmost care and attention.
Leo
Art Handler and Driver
Leo has worked for Fine Art Restoration Company for over a decade, assisting with the logistics of our nationwide collect and delivery service. With a degree in photography, Leo understands the visual impact art has for our clients. He travels the country on a weekly basis, from Carlisle to Cornwall.
Ed
Art Handler and Driver
Leading our collections and deliveries in the south, Ed is a vital part of our London studio. You will find him preparing and safely couriering a wide variety of artwork within central London and beyond. Outside of his role, Ed is a keen photographer and visits the city's galleries to indulge in his love of historic and modern art.
