Caring for artwork depends heavily on the type of artwork! Here's a breakdown of general advice to follow.
**(Applies to most artwork):**
**Handling:** Always wash your hands before handling artwork. Avoid touching the surface of the artwork directly – use cotton gloves if necessary. Lift paintings from the bottom, supporting the entire piece. *
**Location:** Keep artwork away from direct sunlight, heat sources (radiators, fireplaces), and dampness. Extreme temperature fluctuations can damage artwork. Avoid placing artwork in areas with high traffic or risk of accidental damage.
**Dusting:** Regularly dust artwork with a soft, dry brush or microfiber cloth. For delicate pieces, use a soft, natural bristle brush. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
**Pest Control:** Keep your home pest-free to prevent insect damage.
**Professional Cleaning:** For significant cleaning or restoration, consult a professional art conservator. Attempting to clean artwork yourself can cause irreparable damage.
**Framing:** Properly framed artwork is the best method of protection. Ensure the frame is acid-free and that the glazing (glass or acrylic) is UV-protective. Avoid direct sunlight is a must. Think of UV rays as hungry little gremlins; they feast on the pigments, slowly bleaching their brilliance. Regularly check the frame for loose components or damage.
**Storage:** When storing artwork, use acid-free materials such as archival-quality boxes or folders.
**Specific Advice by Material:**
**Paintings (Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor):**
**Oil Paintings:** Avoid hanging them in humid environments. Clean gently with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.
**Acrylic Paintings:** More durable than oil paintings, but still susceptible to damage from sunlight and extreme temperatures. Note: that UV reactive paints lose their reactivity over time. To prolong the life of your UV reactive paint, keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
**Watercolor Paintings:** Extremely delicate; handle with care and avoid excessive moisture. Frame under UV-protective glass.
**Prints (Etchings, Lithographs, Woodcuts):** * Frame under UV-protective glass with acid-free matting. Handle with care to avoid smudging or scratching the ink.
**Drawings (Pencil, Charcoal, Pastel):** * Frame under UV-protective glass with acid-free matting. Avoid touching the surface of the drawing.
**Sculptures (Bronze, Stone, Wood):** Dust regularly with a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Protect from extreme temperatures and humidity. For wood sculptures, consider conditioning with a suitable wood preservative.
**Photographs (Vintage, Modern):** Store in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use archival-quality storage materials. Handle with care to avoid fingerprints or scratches. Consider UV-protective framing or sleeves.
**Textiles (Tapestries, Quilts):** Store flat or rolled (not folded) in acid-free tissue or muslin. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Professional cleaning is often recommended.
**If you are unsure how to care for a specific piece of artwork:**
**Research the artwork's materials:** Knowing the materials allows you to research appropriate care instructions.
**Consult a professional:** An art conservator or appraiser can provide specific advice based on the artwork's condition and materials. Remember, prevention is key. By following these guidelines, you can help preserve your artwork for generations to come.