I am always glad to participate in a discussion, that’s what this forum is for. I’d love to hear a lot more artists’ points of view.
I did not imply that conservators ‘abhor’ dealing with varnish! They don’t! There is a very real use for varnish- protecting a painting from the elements and dirt. And the aesthetic look. Conservators use several different varnishes for different effects, uses, supports. They debate the merits and problems with each of them. There are many papers written and forums discussed and ongoing research. They go through a long educational process, graduate school, fellowships, interns and ongoing classes to study the chemistry and merits of materials. So I think if anyone would like more information, a local conservator is a great place to start.
BUT there are plenty of artists (now and throughout history) who do not varnish their paintings, and that is why I used the term “if at all”. It is up to the individual artist. Conservators and artists are not on opposite sides of the discussion.
I am only responding to why someone should care about what they use or how a varnish is used. And again, I do not say I have the answer. I also said who knows how “historical or valuable” a painting will be in the future? They are not neccessarily “museum quality” paintings either. Privately owned paintings hold a lot of meaning and value for their owners whether they have any market value or not. Just as you want archival paints and supports, archivally using a varnish is of equal importance.
Sharon- thanks for bringing up this topic! And it sounds like you have found the perfect solution to shipping your paintings.