Art as an Investment:

How to Preserve

& Protect Paintings

Original paintings can be significant investments, both emotionally and financially. Proper care and preservation can ensure they maintain their beauty and value over time. This guide outlines key steps to care for your paintings and what to do to ensure their longevity.

How Should Original Paintings Be Cared For?

To protect your original artwork, it's important to create a stable and suitable environment, handle paintings carefully, and maintain a regular cleaning routine. Here's a detailed breakdown of how to care for paintings:

1. Maintain the Right Environment

  • Temperature and Humidity: Keep temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit with 40-50% humidity. Extreme fluctuations can cause paint and canvas to crack or warp.

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Ultraviolet rays can damage and fade paintings. Hang artwork away from direct sunlight and consider UV-protective glass if necessary.

  • Ventilation: Ensure proper air circulation without exposing paintings to drafts or excessive air flow, which can cause stress to the material.

2. Handle with Care

  • Wear Gloves: When handling paintings, wear clean, lint-free cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your skin.

  • Hold Correctly: Hold paintings from the sides or base, not by the top or frame, to avoid undue stress on the structure.

3. Display with Caution

  • Safe Positioning: Keep paintings away from heat sources, windows, and areas prone to moisture like bathrooms.

  • Secure Hanging: Use proper anchors and ensure that the painting is securely mounted.

What Ensures Longevity?

To ensure the longevity of your paintings, consider both routine maintenance and proactive measures to guard against damage and deterioration. Here's what you can do:

1. Regular Cleaning and Professional Care

  • Gentle Dusting: Use a soft, dry brush or cloth to gently remove dust. Avoid using water or cleaning products. Dust lightly with a soft clean natural bristle brush. A soft cloth may be used for items like cold wax or encaustic in order to buff to a soft sheen. However be sure there are no nubs or textured areas that come in contact with a cloth. Nubs may be tugged loose and can potentially damage the painted surface.

  • Professional Restoration: If a painting requires deeper cleaning or repair, consult a professional conservator.

2. Proper Framing and Glass Protection

  • High-Quality Frame: Use a good-quality frame with acid-free backing to protect from environmental factors.

  • Glass or Acrylic Protection: Glass or acrylic can help protect from dust and accidental contact, but ensure there's enough space between the painting and the glass to prevent trapping moisture.

3. Secure Storage

  • Safe Storage: For long-term storage, keep paintings upright or flat with appropriate support and use acid-free materials.

  • Climate-Controlled Environment: Consider climate-controlled storage for prolonged storage to avoid damage from temperature and humidity changes.

4. Insurance and Documentation

  • Insure Valuable Paintings: Ensure proper insurance to cover potential damage, loss, or theft.

  • Maintain Documentation: Keep detailed records, including photographs, appraisals, and artwork lineage.

By following these guidelines, you can help preserve and protect your original paintings, ensuring they remain valuable investments for years to come. If you have specific questions or concerns about your artwork, seeking advice from a professional conservator or restorer is recommended.