How to care for your artwork and ensure it lasts a long time

You have treated yourself to that gorgeous piece of art that you just had to have and now you have it at home. Now you just hang it, right? Well there’s a little more to consider when caring for your artwork. Here I have put together a few very simple ways to ensure the longevity of your originals.

Caring for your art is very simple but so is damaging it so take note…

Installing the Art

I say installing because this covers a multitude of forms of art. 2D artworks are traditionally hung but sculptures need consideration too.

3D Works

When choosing where to place the artwork consider the size and material it is made of. Large sculptures will only fit in so many places and some may be finished with a seal so that they can be put outdoors. Do not assume that this is always the case. If you are unsure, consult the artist, gallery or shop that you bought it from. If buying online, this information should be in the listing to satisfy GDPR requirements. Once you have this information, you can select a space.

Think carefully about how you use the space where it will be housed. You want it to be enjoyed but not in a high traffic place where people are likely to bump into it or knock it over.

2D Works

The majority of 2D works (drawings, paintings, prints) will require framing. Some artists and most galleries will offer to frame the work as part of the service. Otherwise, use a trusted specialist framer who understands how to handle artwork. Touching the surface of the paper or canvas can result in the transfer of oils from the skin and this can damage the artwork. For this reason, it is good practise to use gloves when holding an original.

If framing yourself, make sure that you dust/clean the glass and make sure that there is no debris in the frame before securing the artwork. Place the frame glass side down on a clear surface and lower the artwork onto the glass. Gently turn the Fram over holding everything in place to check if there are any specks that need to be removed. When you are happy that everything is clear, out on the backing, fold down the clips and seal the gaps with farmers tape. This will ensure the artwork is secure and keep out unwanted moisture.

Some paintings are on canvas and can be hung without a frame. In this case, hang the work where it won’t be toughed by mucky hands and ensure that the artist has sealed the work.

Considering Light

If you’ve been in a lot of galleries then you may have noticed that there often aren’t many windows in them. This is because light exposure can bleach colours within artworks. To avoid this issue you can place the artwork out of direct sunlight (not on a wall opposite a window). There is also the option to purchase UV blocking glass for frames.

Cleaning your artwork

Canvases

Do not spray any cleaning products on a canvas. A regular light dusting with a clean dry cloth or feather duster will keep it free from dirt. Canvas artworks should be hung where you can prevent them getting dirty (i.e. away from the hands of children or cooking splashes).

Framed Work

The glass and frame will need dusting and wiping regularly. It is okay to used a spray but ensure that you spray it onto the cloth in a light mist and not directly onto the frame as liquid can seep into the gaps between the frame and glass and be absorbed by the material underneath causing irreversible damage.

3D Work

As mention earlier, make sure you know exactly what the item is made of and how it has been treated, The artist/gallery should have told you how to treat the surface when cleaning but knowing the materials will enable you to select an appropriate cleaner if they have not.

In short, careful positioning and care are the best ways to ensure that your artwork doesn’t get damaged. Enjoy your new pieces and have fun shopping for your next one.