COLLECTION CARE

Several simple considerations can help prolong the life of your painting. Paintings are made of many different types of organic and inorganic materials, which respond differentially to changes in temperature and relative humidity. Consequently, it is best to keep the environment in which they are hung as stable as possible. Ideal ranges include Temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit and Relative Humidity between 40 and 60%.

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Do not hang a picture where a direct stream of sunlight traverses the surface. Pigments can fade!

Make sure heating and cooling vents do not blow directly on the painting.

If possible, do not hang pictures over open shafted fireplaces. If unavoidable, make sure the painting has a backing board to help buffer changes in temperature and relative humidity.

Place paintings on inside walls of your home.

To remove surface dust use a very soft brush such as the Japanese Hake Brushes pictured above. Be mindful that the ferrel not touch the picture's surface. Never use any commercial cleaning agent, water or cleaning rags to remove surface dust and grime.

Check picture hangers and hanging wire every 2-5 years to make sure they remain undamaged.

Avoid damage from handling mistakes and accidents by doing the following:

Always prepare the path along which you must travel carrying a picture. If the picture is large, considering enlisting a friend to help you safely carry the painting.
Face the painting towards yourself and carry using both hands, so that the surface isn't accidentally scratched by an object en route.
Never lean anything into the face or reverse of the canvas.
Avoid leaving a painting in a car unattended. Both heat and cold can damage the picture. Make sure when transporting an artwork that it is lying on a smooth surface and that nothing directly touches the paint surface.

For further specific information please contact the studio or The American Institute For Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works