How to Protect Your Artwork
Photo by: Wilhelm Gunkel
You fell in love with a piece, invested in it, and brought it home. It’s the greatest feeling in the world! Now, all you have to do is appreciate and take care of it.
Caring for your artwork is simple and by paying attention to just a few things, you will ensure the longevity of your artwork for generations to come.
step 1 - protecting artwork
The most crucial first step for protecting two-dimensional works of art are matting and framing. This is so important, in fact, that we can write an entire chapter on proper ways to frame and mat different types of artwork (and we did, if you’d like to read more here). But the short story is that quality frame job will determine the life and longevity of your artwork. Always chose the best material and go to the expert framer. Poor quality materials can cause frame to deteriorate causing moisture and air to enter the frame which will cause the artwork to fade, crack or tear.
step 2 - creating safe setting
Second step, but no less important, is to create a safe environment inside your home. Damaging effects of humidity, heat, light and pollution are well known and can affect your artwork as well. Under these conditions, wear and aging are accelerated. If not properly taken care of, your favorite piece can show in either cracked surfaces, discoloration, yellowing, or softening and decomposition of organic material.
minimize damage from heat & humidity by:
Temperature should be maintained at 70 degrees
Humidity levels should not exceed 70% nor dip below 30% (they say the optimal level of humidity is around 50%)
Keep the area well ventilated
Air conditioners and dehumidifiers are good remedy for humidity
Humidifier will reduce the hazards of excessively dry environment
If air conditioner is too pricey, invest in a ceiling fan
If you’re planning to be away for a long time – make sure the place is at an optimum temperature and provide steady air circulation and humidity regulation
minimize damage from light by:
Keep your artwork away from the direct sunlight and avoid placing artwork on walls directly opposite windows
Control direct daylight that comes from your windows with shutters or blinds and turn off lights whenever possible
If possible, invest in roll-down blinds made from ultraviolet-treated acrylic sheeting
Avoid fluorescent lighting or any lighting that creates additional heat and instead invest in LED lights. Not only is this the best for your artwork, but it’s also economical and energy efficient
But if you want to learn how to light your artwork like a pro, this article is a great source.
step 3 - cleaning your artwork
Lastly, cleaning and dusting your artwork ensures that you keep the pollutants away from your prized possessions. However, each art medium requires its own set of rules on how to keep it clean.
Acrylic Paintings
Acrylic paintings can be cleaned with a dry rag or a dry paintbrush to brush away any particles from the surface. DO NOT use any water.
Oil Paintings
There have been many suggestions on how to clean the oil paintings: some suggest using a slightly moist cloth to rub lightly over the surface, some suggest using bread to soak up the dust particles. Well, since I don’t like water near my paintings nor do I want bugs to come later – there is a much better option out there. Using a soft, dry sable brush to get the dust off.
Sculptures
Metal and wood sculptures require regular dusting only. But metal will start to change color with age and once this happens, always send it to a professional for polishing.
We hope these tips will help you keep and enjoy your artwork for a long time and let us know if you have any other suggestions on how to take care of the artwork in the comments below.