The paper contains information on the origins, pioneering spirit and preservation actions carried out at the Conservation and Restoration Studio of the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), founded in 1982 to initially restore the paintings of Pelotas artist Leopoldo Gotuzzo, which were used to create the Leopoldo Gotuzzo Art Museum (MALG) and the University's Pinacoteca. The actions that resulted in the creation of the Atelier were supported by the value of the pictorial collection, which represents part of the cultural history of the city of Pelotas and the region, and by the concern for its conservation.