Services

Treatments

With over twenty five years of experience, Ms. Foulke is knowledgeable in the treatment of paintings on panel, canvas, painted murals, and objects with painted surfaces.  The materials and techniques of paintings vary widely and are unique to each painting.  She assesses the construction and condition of each work of art and designs an appropriate treatment to repair structural damages and improve the visual appearance.   Treatments may include the removal of surface dirt, stabilization of fragile paint, reduction of planar deformations, removal of old and discolored varnish, removal of old and discolored retouch, application of a new and saturating varnish, repair of tears and punctures in a damaged canvas, filling of losses in the gesso and paint layers, and retouching of losses and abrasions.

Storage

Improper storage of paintings increases the risk of damage caused by poor climate.  Paintings stored without protection may develop pronounced and unstable craquelure.  Dust, debris, moisture and mold can initiate detrimental changes to the condition of paintings that have not had proper care.  Ms. Foulke can make recommendations for the appropriate storage of works of art to ensure stable conditions and long-term preservation.

Courier Services

Rikke Foulke has been trusted by numerous institutions for the safe handling of paintings for domestic and international travel.  She examines the condition of the painting prior to and after transport. She supervises the safe installation of a painting in an exhibit and oversees the appropriate handling of paintings going into storage.

Collection Surveys

For clients and institutions with collections of paintings, Foulke can carry out a survey to prioritize the needs of the collection.  She can identify paintings in the most fragile condition and in need of conservation.  She can make recommendations for display and storage.

Educational Lectures

Foulke has presented lectures to colleagues at professional conferences, to the public at museums, and in an academic context to students at universities.  She believes educating the public and museum professionals on painting conservation and the field of preservation will promote long-term preservation and stability of works of art.  She is also happy to share her experiences of researching and working on paintings with interested parties.