Care of Paintings
Paintings are usually done on canvas or panel. Of the canvases, linen canvas (which I use), is the more robust but all fabric is relatively fragile, easily suffering from knocks or scrapes. The front of the canvas is particularly vulnerable. The rear is mostly protected. Panels are stronger and more stable but still can suffer damage.
Great caution should be exercised with transport of the art work. Professional art movers should be employed. Never entrust art work to normal removalists or general carriers, even if the painting is enclosed in what seems to be good protection.
Do not store the painting in a standard storage facility that is not climate controlled. Excessive heat and cold can ruin the painting through temperature shock which causes cracking, paint lifting, canvas fragility and warping. It may also cause discolouration of the paint.
Avoid exposing the painting to direct sunlight where the picture is hung, even for a short time of the day. Damp will cause mildew which destroys paintings as well as promoting yellowing of oil paint and movement of the canvas. Never place a painting over a fireplace.
Use strong plasterboard Hollow Wall Anchors and the matching WallHook, not the nail in type. These products are designed for plasterboard and cavity walls and hold up to 10kg. They are available at bigger hardware stores and look quite acceptable and neat. It is preferable to hang a painting by two separate wall hooks at either end of the painting connecting directly to the D rings of the painting, rather than one central one. This is especially important for bigger paintings. Technically this is a little more difficult but alleviates stress on the painting stretchers or frame.
The picture will darken if placed or stored in a dark environment for long periods but should regain its freshness within a few weeks of general exposure to indirect light.
If the painting dulls with time it may require gentle cleaning (with a soft fluffy duster) and/or varnishing - but this must be done by a professional artist or restorer using archival materials. Gloss or satin varnish give better protection and colour saturation that matte varnish. I generally varnish works about 12 months after completion however the medium I have used in the painting is designed to give some intrinsic protection over many years. You are welcome to contact me if you would like the painting varnished or further advice. This preferably should be done before framing is completed if a frame is required. It can however, be done after framing.
The interior of the modern Australian home is a very good environment for the long term preservation of paintings.
If your painting is unframed, then for improvement in its presentation and for added protection I would recommend getting the painting framed through a master framer.
It is commonly recognised now that, for future generations, there is an obligation for owners to reasonably ensure the long term survival of the work in good condition.
I wish you a lifetime of visual pleasure and satisfaction with your purchase. Should you have any queries or concerns then I am available for advice.