PRESERVING ARTWORK: HOW TO TAKE CARE OF INDIAN ART

Preserving artwork is an important aspect of collecting art. Once you install your original paintings and fine art prints in the home, we recommend the following tips on how to take care of artwork:

Light

Never display your artworks in strong, direct sunlight. Ultraviolet light is harmful to paper as well as to certain inks and colors, which leads to discoloration or fading. Where possible, hanging paintings and prints in shaded areas is how best to protect artwork from sunlight.

Humidity

Do not hang art on walls that will be exposed to high levels of humidity or dampness, including bathrooms, balconies or partially covered patios. Humidity causes molding and foxing of paper, and it can also attract pests like silverfish, which will damage your artwork.

Heat

Do not store or hang artwork near radiators, stoves, walls containing flues or other sources of heat. For paintings, heat can warp stretcher bars, and for prints, heat can dry out paper and make it brittle. Frequent or drastic changes in temperature can also damage artworks, causing discoloration or warping.

Location

Hang your paintings away from very busy and possibly messy areas, like high-traffic entryways or kitchen counters.

Surface

Do not lean anything against the surface of a canvas.

Pollution

To avoid damage from dust, dirt, acids in papers and the sweat from your hands, handle your artwork as infrequently as possible, and be sure to clean it occasionally.

Cleaning

From time to time, gently wipe your paintings and frames with a clean, soft rag or use a feather duster to prevent dust buildup.

These tips offer a preventive approach for how to protect artwork from damage. However, if you have a damaged painting that needs restoration, we are also happy to connect you with a professional art conservator.