From the Expert: Installation

Staff Highlight: Nicholas Pipho

Nicholas Pipho, GFA’s Lead Preparator, has been keeping clients' art safe and secure with Guardian for over 8 years. Known for problem-solving, Nicholas enjoys tackling the unique challenges that come with preparing, packing, and installing complex artworks—whether it’s determining the safest way to move a delicate object or finding the right approach to install a difficult piece.
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To get a better understanding of what GFA offers, we spoke with our Lead Preparator.

Q. What kinds of objects is Guardian equipped to install?
"We can install all types of objects ranging from small framed artwork to large sculptures weighing thousands of pounds. "

Q. How many items would you estimate you install in a week?
"We usually have a few installs per week, although they can vary a lot in size, from a single piece for a private client to hundreds of pieces for a large corporate install. I would guess that we do more installs for private clients, but those also tend to be smaller. If you count the total number of pieces, we might do more for corporate or business clients."

Q. How might installation in a private home/business differ from installing in a public space/institution?
"In public spaces, we often use installation hardware that prevents the pieces from being easily removed from the wall. It’s a deterrent against theft, but also locks the pieces to the wall in case they get bumped, which can often happen in hallways and other public spaces."

Q. What's something “weird” about installation that clients don't usually consider?
"People sometimes overlook how the artwork will get into their house. Even if the wall they want to hang it on is big enough, we have had situations where paintings were too large to fit through doorways or down stairs into a basement, etc."

Q. Are there any recent ways that you have “upgraded” installation at Guardian?
"We’ve recently added additional rigging equipment, which allows us to move and install much heavier pieces."

Q.  What was your most “unique” or “unusual” install?
"We have been brought in to assist museums for several large installations. For one, we helped install a large glass sculpture with the artist’s studio assistant which was very interesting and required a lot of techniques I hadn’t seen/used before."

Q. Do you have a favorite type of object to install?
"I don’t have one specific type of object that I like. There’s a lot of variety, which is nice because it keeps things interesting."

Q. Last question: What do you do outside of Guardian?
"I like to spend time outside, hiking, camping, and fishing."