HOW TO TAKE CARE OF ARTWORK: EXPERT TIPS FOR PRESERVING PAINTINGS

Preserving artwork is an important aspect of collecting art, so you can enjoy your collection for many years to come. 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 over time. Where possible, hang paintings and prints in shaded areas to protect artwork from direct 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, vent pipes or other sources of heat. For paintings, heat can warp stretcher bars, and for prints, heat can dry out paper and make it brittle. Changes in temperature can also cause 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.

— Sonia Nayyar Patwardhan