Caring For Acrylic Paintings
So you've just bought one of my original acrylic paintings! Congratulations!
Original art is an investment, and you want to make sure that your artwork can be appreciated by your grandchildren, not just the friends who visit today. So how can you make sure your acrylic painting lasts the distance? Well firstly, all artwork has a lifetime, and as such does deteriorate over time. Most paintings will last longer than we do, for over a hundred years, even centuries, but we can take measures to prevent unnecessary aging, and reduce the risk of damage and discoloration.
DID YOU KNOW? Acrylic paintings are expected to have a longer life than Oil paintings, and are more resistant to aging. They develop cracks less often than Oil paintings and are more resistant to pressure. They are more flexible!
* EXTREMELY cold climate and sub-zero temperatures can cause acrylic paint to crack. Try and maintain a normal room temperature.
* BE AWARE that paint becomes soft at around 60degrees celcius- avoid high temperatures such as placing painting above a fireplace or heater!
* NEVER hang your artwork in direct sunlight. Some pigments found in acrylic paints are extremely sensitive to ultraviolet light. This can cause some paints to fade.
*AVOID denting or pressure- always pick up your painting from the sides of the frame and NEVER from the top. Handling your artwork incorrectly or roughly can also weaken your support (stretchers or frame)
* NEVER attempt to clean the surface of dust by using solvents of cleaning products! If you need to clean your artwork then consider an experienced art conservator who will know the correct methods in which to clean without damaging your investment.
*AVOID HUMIDITY- never hang your original painting in a bathroom or in a kitchen where steam can be present!
Posted in Miscellaneous. Updated January 25th, 2011.
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