Flattening Undulations
What is it for?
Flattening undulations is an intervention that aims to correct geometric alterations of a canvas, allowing it to recover its original flatness. These deformations, whether localised or generalized, compromise not only the artwork’s aesthetic aspect but can also threaten paint layer adhesion over time.
This intervention allows to:
Restore original flatness of support for optimal artwork perception
Eliminate irregular tensions that progressively weaken paint layer
Prevent future cracks and lifting caused by mechanical constraints
Reduce parasitic shadow and light zones
created by deformations under lighting
Optimise museographic presentation by eliminating visual distortions
Facilitate framing
without risking new mechanical constraints
A particular stake for contemporary art
In the field of modern and contemporary art, my specialty at Atelier CROMA, flattening undulations presents specific problematics:
Modern industrial canvases react differently to traditional treatments
Synthetic preparations have distinct hygrometric behaviors from traditional preparations
Contemporary paint layers (acrylic, vinyl, mixed techniques) can present particular sensitivities
Large formats accentuate technical challenges linked to treatment homogeneity
Unvarnished artworks, frequent in contemporary art, require additional precautions
How I proceed at Atelier CROMA?
As a conservator specialized in modern and contemporary art, I apply a rigorous methodology for flattening undulations, adapted to each artwork’s specificities:
1. Precise deformation diagnosis
Before any intervention, I carry out detailed analysis:
- Observation of deformations by examination under raking light
- Identification of deformation nature (undulations, folds, depressions, bumps, peripheral deformations…)
- Analysis of causes (inadequate tension, shocks, hygrometric variations, water damage…)
- Evaluation of mechanical behavior of canvas and its preparation
- Verification of paint layer condition at deformed zone level
2. Development of custom strategy
According to established diagnosis, I determine:
- Most adapted treatment method and least invasive possible
- Precise intervention parameters (humidity, pressure, duration…)
- Zones requiring particular attention due to specific fragilities
- Optimal sequence of intervention for multiple deformations
- Necessary protection measures for paint layer
3. Specific techniques for contemporary art
I mobilise different techniques according to modern or contemporary artwork nature:
For localised deformations:
- Controlled localised humidification adapted to material sensitivity
- Application of progressive weights
- Use of suction tables for particularly refractory zones
For generalized deformations:
- Global humidification protocols (if possible) with parameters adapted to contemporary materials
- Progressive pressing respecting material response times
- Flattening systems under controlled tension for large formats
- Combined techniques associating moisture supply, moderate heat and pressure
4. Approach adapted to contemporary sensitivities
For modern and contemporary artworks, I take particular precautions:
- Prior tests on less visible zones to validate intervention parameters
- Permanent control of synthetic material reactions to humidity
- Specific protection of sensitive paint layers (matte, porous, thick…)
- Adaptation of treatment times to drying characteristics of industrial preparations
- Continuous monitoring of environmental parameters throughout intervention
Importance for preventive conservation
Flattening undulations is not limited to aesthetic intervention, but fits into broader preventive conservation approach:
Support stabilization to limit future appearance of new deformations
Homogeneous tension distribution in canvas to prevent localised weakening
Reduction of fragility zones where dust and pollutants could accumulate
Optimal preparation for possible complementary interventions (consolidation, retouching…)
Improvement of the artwork’s conservation conditions in long term
Specific intervention cases
At Atelier CROMA, I regularly treat different types of deformations, each requiring adapted approach:
Localised deformations
Punctual deformations (bumps, indentations, folds) often result from shocks or accidental pressures. Their treatment requires particular attention to avoid creating peripheral tensions that would compromise intervention. I use targeted techniques allowing to act precisely on concerned zone without disturbing overall support balance.
Perimetric deformations
Frequent in canvases stretched on stretchers, these deformations manifest as depressions or undulations along edges. They are generally linked to hygrometric variations or tension relaxation. Their correction requires global revision of peripheral tension associated with localised work on deformed zones.
Generalised undulations
These deformations affect the entire pictorial surface. Their treatment requires global strategy integrating controlled humidification, progressive pressure application and rigorous monitoring of material behavior, especially for contemporary materials, facing humidity variations.
Deformations linked to prior interventions
Certain deformations are consequence of inappropriate treatments or incorrect handling. These complex cases often require combined approach associating partial or complete removal of old treatment and progressive flattening undulation to avoid aggravating existing damage.
My ecological approach for flattening undulations
As an environmentally conscious conservator, at Atelier CROMA has ecologically responsible approach for flattening undulations:
Eco-responsible materials and processes
- Privileged use of bio-sourced materials for pressure and support elements
- Use of passive humidification systems limiting energy consumption
- Selection of non-acid and recyclable papers for protection interfaces
- Maximum reduction of plastic use in temporary devices
Reasonable resource management
- Optimization of material surfaces used for each intervention
- Systematic reuse of pressure and support elements after cleaning
- Precise control of water inputs to limit consumption
- Use of passive humidity regulation systems (recyclable silica gel, natural clays)
Sustainable work environment
- Temperature control by passive methods when possible
- Limitation of energy-consuming appliance use to strict necessary
Concrete benefits for your artwork
Entrusting flattening undulations of your artwork to Atelier CROMA means benefiting from:
Custom intervention adapted to your contemporary artwork’s specificities
Specialized expertise in modern and contemporary materials
Minimally invasive approach respecting the artwork integrity
Durable correction of deformations without compromising future stability
Precise documentation of interventions carried out
Significant improvement of visual aspect and the artwork readability
Heritage valorization of your piece thanks to optimal presentation
Environmentally friendly treatment, in accordance with contemporary values
How to anticipate and prevent deformations?
To complement my flattening undulation intervention, I systematically propose personalized preventive conservation advice:
Recommendations on optimal exhibition conditions (hygro-metry, temperature, lighting)
Advice on hanging systems adapted to the artwork characteristics
Recommendations for secure transport limiting risks of new deformations
Suggestions of specific packaging for sensitive artwork storage
Information on warning signs of new deformations to monitor
Request a personalised estimate
You wish to recover original flatness of your modern or contemporary artwork? Contact me for personalized evaluation of your needs and adapted estimate. At Atelier CROMA, I put my expertise at your artworks’ service, respecting their integrity and environment.