Caring For Your
Oil Painting
Caring for your
painting will ensure its longevity. There are preventative measures that can and should be taken when owning
an oil painting. Oils are one of the most sensitive means of
artistic media, and damages are common. Handling of
the artwork, changes in temperature, lighting,
############## oil paintings, hanging, and storage can all cause different types of damage, including:
? The cracking of
paint,
? Distortions of the canvas,
? Fading and discoloration of the
painting
Handling of
the artwork too often will inevitably cause damage, so be certain to take preventative measures when moving the
painting. Be sure to seal and insulate. In a move, this will prevent destruction from hot and cold temperature changes, as well as bumps and bangs. Bubble wrap your
painting even if moving it in a protective portfolio. This way, if the cover is punctured, you still have a safety net.
Changes in temperature will cause your
painting to stretch and shrink, just as your door frame does from winter to summer months. This can cause cracking of
paint and/or canvas. Some variation is inevitable, but to avoid severe changes hang the
painting somewhere in the home or office where humidity and temperature are reasonably constant. Avoid hanging the
painting near doorways, windows, and air ducts (this includes fireplaces that are often in use). Bathrooms and kitchens (humidity, smoke, heat) are also a bad idea for your
oil painting.
Lighting whether natural or
artificial, will have negative effects on your
painting in the long term. Never hang your
painting in direct sunlight! This will cause fading of the
paint, as well as frequent temperature change from day to night, which will cause cracking. Hang the
painting on an outside wall (but not near a window) to avoid sun damage. In choosing the correct
artificial lighting, try flood lighting or if using spots, use a low frequency bulb, as a high concentration of direct light will have the same effect on your
painting as sunlight. (For more information on lighting, refer to 'The Right Light' post on
the ArtCorner blog)
Hanging Your
painting is an important consideration. We've spoken about temperature damage, but you also want to consider 'people' damage. Avoid hanging your
painting in an area where people may bump it. Your
painting should theoretically be hung at eye level, but in narrow spaces like hallways, a bit higher wouldn't hurt. 8 to 10 inches breathing room above furniture should salvage the
painting from mishap. Another consideration is cigarette smoke. If you have a designated smoke area, hang up a poster, this is not where you want your
oil painting.
Store your
painting with the same consideration that you hang it. Basements and Attics are not your best bet. Temperatures are typically very dry or very wet in these environments. Cover your
painting on both sides with bubble wrap or corrugated plastic, box it up in cardboard, and store it in a closet that remains as close to room temperature as possible.
Cleaning your
painting is risky. Very lightly and infrequently dusting with a lint free silk cloth or a soft brush may be okay, but it is best to rely on experts and professionals to help with full cleaning and/or repair.
Caring For Your Oil Painting
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