Articles

Caring for Artwork

by Chris Quinlan Art

Original artworks

As original artworks are valuable assets and hold very sentimental values, They need to last a long time. Our Artists use quality materials to create these artworks to last for many, many years to come. There is some care you, yourself can take to prevent or slow the natural Art aging process. Proper care will guarantee the artwork remains an important work of art for you and for future generations to come.

Humidity & temperatures

If humidity and temperatures are high they may damage your painting. If possible, try to keep the climate constant in the room where the painting is hung or being kept. In rooms with a humidity exceeding 70 p/c bumps occur which could seriously damage or weaken the painting and make it more vulnerable to future damage. Please keep in mind that fluctuations in both temperature and humidity caused by air-conditioning systems being witched on and off can damage paintings also. This causes the paint to lose its elasticity in the course of time. The shrinkage and expansion caused by differences in temperature and humidity can lead to the paint coming off and getting cracked.

Direct Sunlight

Simply keep away from direct sunlight is the best advice to offer. The UV radiation can fade the paint and even become cracked over time, even with uv protection. If you had your painting varnished or glazed, direct sunlight could colour, discolor, or darken the painting in places.

Dirt & grime

Keep the artwork away from unwanted leakage areas i.e. pipes, air-conditioning outlets, kitchen units, chimneys, air ducts, fire places, and cookers etc..

Cleaning & Repairs

If cracking of the paint develops, it is best treated by specialist. Do not apply cleaning agents to the painting, this can cause irreparable damage. Use a soft brush to dust the painted canvas. Never clean an artwork with a damp cloth since it can leave a shade layer that can only be removed by a specialist. If the artwork is damaged contact a specialist for advice on carrying out repairs yourself.

Hanging a painting

Once you've decided where you'd like to hang your painting, measure to find the centre of the piece. Allow for the drop of wire, and make a mark on the wall where you will put the hanger. You can prevent the plaster or drywall from cracking by placing a piece of masking tape on the wall where you will insert the hook. If your artwork is larger than 12" x 24", use 2 hooks to hang the painting for balanced and weight distribution. Use a level to determine where the hooks should be placed. Your painting will remain straight without constant vigilance. Nail the picture hook into the wall where you've made a mark and carefully place your painting on the wall, catching the wire on the hook. Straighten, step back, and enjoy

Chris Quinlan Art
quinlanart.com
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