A Guide from Labyrinth Gallery, Brighton
Investing in art is a rewarding experience, but owning artwork comes with the responsibility of maintaining and preserving it for years to come. At Labyrinth Gallery in Brighton, we understand the importance of proper care and are here to guide you through the essentials of artwork maintenance. Here’s how you can keep your pieces in excellent condition, ensuring they remain vibrant and beautiful.
1. Proper Display
The first step in caring for your artwork is ensuring it is displayed in a suitable environment. Consider these key factors when deciding where to showcase your pieces:
– Lighting: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause fading and damage. Opt for soft, indirect lighting or use UV-filtered bulbs to protect your artwork.
– Temperature and Humidity: Keep your artwork in a stable environment, ideally between 18-22 degrees Celsius with a humidity level of around 45-55%. Extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause warping, cracking, or other damage.
– Positioning: Avoid placing artwork near heat sources, air conditioning vents, or areas prone to dampness or drafts.
2. Cleaning and Dusting
Routine cleaning and dusting are essential for maintaining your artwork’s appearance. Follow these guidelines for safe cleaning:
– Dusting: Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to gently remove dust from the surface of the artwork and frame. Avoid using feather dusters or abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
– Glass or Plexiglass: For framed artwork with glass or plexiglass covers, use a non-abrasive glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Apply the cleaner to the cloth, not directly to the glass, to avoid streaks or moisture damage.
– Canvas and Prints: For unframed canvas or paper prints, avoid moisture. Instead, lightly brush off dust with a soft, dry brush.
3. Framing and Protection
Quality framing is crucial for protecting your artwork from physical damage. Consider these aspects when framing or re-framing artwork:
– Acid-Free Materials: Ensure all matting and backing materials are acid-free to prevent discoloration and deterioration over time.
– Glass or Plexiglass: If framing artwork on paper or canvas, use UV-protective glass or plexiglass to guard against fading and discolouration.
– Backing and Fastening: Ensure that the backing is secure and that fasteners are not causing pressure or damage to the artwork.
4. Handling and Transport
Careful handling is essential when moving or transporting artwork. Here are some tips to ensure safe handling:
– Gloves: Wear cotton gloves when handling unframed artwork to avoid transferring oils or dirt.
– Secure Packaging: If transporting artwork, use sturdy packaging materials like bubble wrap and ensure the artwork is immobilised to prevent movement during transit.
– Professional Assistance: For valuable or large artwork, consider hiring a professional art handling or moving service to ensure safe transport. Check out our delivery options here.
5. Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect your artwork for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Look for:
– Cracks or Warping: Check for signs of warping, cracking, or splitting, especially in wooden frames or stretched canvas.
– Fading or Discoloration: Monitor for changes in colour or brightness, indicating potential UV damage.
– Loose Fasteners or Frames: Ensure frames are secure and that any hardware is not causing undue stress on the artwork.
Following these tips from Labyrinth Gallery, Brighton, can help you care for and maintain your artwork, ensuring it remains in top condition for years to come. Proper care not only preserves the value of your art but also allows you to enjoy its beauty and significance without worry. If you have any questions or need further guidance, our team at Labyrinth Gallery is always here to help. Visit us to learn more about preserving your art collection and explore our latest exhibitions and works from talented artists.
