Caring for your original artwork
Art at home
Tips and tricks
How to look after your art
1. Keep your artworks out of direct sunlight.
Your artwork might have a protective layer of varnish/resin, but it is still possible for it to crack or fade if subjected to bright sunlight for long periods of time.
2. Do not lean anything against the surface.
Objects near an artwork may not seem sharp, but it is always surprising what will cause a scratch. Prevent accidents and store your artworks away from anything that might press against the surface.
3. Dust your artworks with a clean, soft rag occasionally to prevent dust buildup.
Don’t use cleaning products or water! Some artworks may require additional care, in these cases the artists will provide additional care instructions for your artwork.
4. Hang your artworks away from very busy and possibly messy areas.
Over time, artworks can accumulate a thin layer of dust and pollutants, airborne grime from cooking oils, particles from smoking and insect specks. If there is a place to display your piece away from these things, or where it will be somewhat less exposed, try to position it there.
5. Wrap your artwork well if you plan to transport it.
Be sure to put a heavy piece of cardboard over the front and back to protect it. Then bubble wrap and place in a suitable heavy cardboard box. Rough handling can damage both the painting and the frame so pack it securely. We recommend using an insured professional for packing and transporting works.
6. Try to avoid subjecting your artworks to extreme changes in atmosphere.
Avoid excessive dryness, humidity, heat or cold. All of these conditions can affect the state of your artwork in a negative way (canvas puckering, paint cracking, wood warping etc.).
7. Do not cover artworks with plastic for long periods of time.
If there is humidity in the air, they may start to grow mold. Cotton sheets are best for keeping dust away.
8. Check the condition of your artworks periodically.
If your artwork does get damaged, don’t fix it yourself. Contact a gallery for a referral or look up a qualified conservator. Amateur repairs can reduce the value of your artwork drastically.
With thanks and acknowledgment to Lightworx Gallery for this information. If you have any questions at all, please get in touch with us and we’ll be able to offer information and advice.
Meet the owners
We (Sue and Erin Roughton) are the owners of Protean Art Gallery. Thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter.
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