Ginny Newell works to restore a painting. Ginny Newell has lots of enemies. But years of training and a formidable arsenal of weapons have equipped her to earn victory in most of the battles.

This Columbian has built a business and an enviable reputation on her ability to repair and restore fine works of art. Her business, ReNewell, Inc., specializes in the delicate process of cleaning and restoring fine art. It involves chemistry, history, skill, and talent, which have brought back to life some works once considered hopelessly damaged.

“The enemies are everywhere,” she says. “Acid, humidity, light, heat, rust, fire, accidents – just about everything that makes up our everyday environment. We keep learning new ways to prevent damage, as well as more ways to repair after it occurs. I love what I do, and it’s a thrill to see something wonderful restored to its original beauty.”

This Columbian holds degrees from Davidson College and the Academy of Professional Art Conservation and Science in Sonoma, Calif. Her work appears in museums in Europe and North America and in homes around the world. Her studio is at 715 Woodrow Street in Columbia.

Newell recently spoke at the Columbia Museum of Art and showed examples of her work. She specializes in paintings and in works done on paper. “I don’t take on sculpture or photography, for example. Each medium presents a different set of problems and calls for a different expertise.”

The development of synthetic materials has brought changes to traditional forms of preservation. For instance,, antique art works which involve natural substances such as linen, or oil paints, can be cleaned with new solvents, but should never be covered with a plastic coating. It takes an expert to know what works and where.

“We strive to make our treatments reversible,” Newell points out. “‘Do no harm’ is our motto. You should be able to take away anything we have done to an art work.”

She repeats the mantra of preservationists everywhere: Use common sense and care in enjoying your works of art. Maintain a stable temperature, never exposing them to extreme heat or cold or humidity. Light is an enemy of art. Do not allow exposure to direct light, whether artificial or sunlight. Don’t store things in the attic, basement or garage. Use acid–free100 percent rag paper.

Professional framers will know how to protect paintings properly and avoid long–term damage.

“You have art in your home to enjoy,” she reminds us. “Don’t ignore it. Check it regularly for signs of deterioration, and get help when needed.”