Having art in the home is the most certain way to brighten up your space. Whether you own a masterpiece by a renowned Australian artist like David Hart or you have a cherished piece of family art, it’s important that you preserve its beauty and its value.
To do so, you need to pay proper care and attention to your art at all times. Artworks, particularly paintings, are very sensitive to a range of environmental factors, including mishandling and the passage of time.
Let’s take a look at some expert tips on art preservation to help you to safeguard your collection for years to come.
Handle it carefully
The very first rule of art preservation is to make sure that you handle your artwork with clean hands. Better yet, you should wear gloves because the oils and dirt from your skin can transfer to the surface of the art as this can cause discolouration or damage.
When you need to move or reposition your artwork, you should be holding it securely by the frame or the base to avoid direct contact with the painted surface. Always use both hands to ensure even support and avoid dragging your artwork across walls or floors.
Think about lighting
Light exposure is actually one of the most common causes of deterioration and fading in artwork. It’s nice to illuminate your art, but keeping it in direct sunlight is a problem. Both natural sunlight and artificial lighting can cause harm, so it’s important that you display your art in areas away from UV rays that can bleach colors and degrade materials.
You should also use UV protective glass or acrylic if the artwork is framed as this gives an additional layer of defence. Ideally, if you want to light up your artwork, use LED lighting which emits less heat and UV radiation in comparison to the traditional halogen bulbs.
Monitor temperatures
Australian art, much like all forms of art, is highly sensitive to fluctuations in temperature. Excessive moisture can lead to mould growth and warping, while dry conditions can cause any brittleness or cracking you see.
Maintaining a stable environment with the humidity level of around 40 to 50% is important and dehumidifiers can help you with this.
Use the right framing
A good frame doesn’t just enhance the appearance of your artwork, but it provides protection against physical and environmental damage. Investing in high quality materials – including acid-free matting and backing – can ensure that your artwork withstands the test of time.
Preserving the Legacy of Australian Art
By following the above tips, you can ensure that your treasured artwork remains in the pristine condition you’ve been hoping it stays in for years to come. Australian art offers history and a unique aesthetic, and it deserves to be preserved and celebrated.
If you’re unsure about caring for a particular piece, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional conservator or the artists themselves.
For more tips or to explore David Hart’s stunning collection, visit the rest of our website and discover the beauty of Australian art.
