About Us
Insitju Fine Art and Conservation provides a bespoke service combining skilled British craftsmanship. From picture framing to restoration, frame conservation and gilding, we also specialise in all types of picture frames using techniques including gilding and the construction of carved frames and over mantle mirrors.
in situ
/ɪn ˈsɪtjuː/
adverb · adjective
adverb: insitu
In situ (/ in ‘sitju:, - “saitju:, - “si:-/; (often not italicised in English) is a Latin phrase that translates literally to "on site". Its also a very good bottle of wine! Our name, Insitju Framing & Conservation Ltd was conceived from the In Situ Reserva wine and the concept of conservation on site:
“frescoes have been left in situ” - “conservation work carried out on site or in place” “in the original place”.
Our Picture Framing & Fine Art Restoration Story
Insitju was set up in 2012, initially based in Ivybridge, moving to a larger unit in Ermington in 2014. However, we outgrew our premises again and have finally relocated to Modbury. As a limited Company, registered at Companies House Insitju provides accountability, professional standing and security in the knowledge that the company is well established and reliant. We are now stockists of Guild Design paints, which we use on our hand made and hand finished frames as well as offering contemporary & traditional frames. We are a small family business with a personal touch and we pack a great deal into the quality of products we offer.
Founder of Insitju
Founder of Insitju Framing and Conservation Ltd, Martin Edwards had a vision several years ago to create a business to restore legacy objects, objects that are historical as well as sentimental, objects that are cherished and have a residual meaning to the owner or keeper.
This mindset was the result of much contemplation, as Martin explains: ‘The concept started whist working as a collection manger, working with broad range of conservators, and universities that carried out conservation and restoration work. From the onset my main considerations were how to evolve as an ethical business and how to evaluate the long-term challenges in a marginal market, and what were the differences between a successful business that expands and establishes a good reputation and one that fails?
In exploring this vexing question Martin looked back at his previous service career where a defining purpose, and commitment was more important than financial gain. Both traditional and modern business models emphasise that the purpose of business is to maximise profit. However, finance is a resource not a purpose.
So Insitju is founded on ethical service which is committed to purpose, where customers, people, museums, galleries and fellow conservators are looked after. It is a place where objects are cared for, restored, and conserved for future generations, which is achieved through our defining purpose. Purpose is primary, a mindset which creates opportunities providing a clear benchmark to test ethical conservation and restoration decision making.
Martin approaches every object with a minimal innervation mindset, helping clients make the right decision, future planning for legacy objects where the current custodian may not see the benefits but future generations will. Preserving for the generations ahead… restoring artefacts is a wonderful legacy for you and your family.
From Green Roots to Net Zero Sustainability
Clients we have worked with:
