Taking care of your original artwork
Acrylic & Oil Paintings
by Dennis Lee Brown
BEFORE UNPACKING THE ARTWORK:
Locate on the wall the position so displaying the painting all can admire. Do not place the painting when unpacking it where it may be damaged from laying it on an uneven level surface. Place the backside of the painting down on a level surface until hanging.
Gently and carefully unpack your painting from the shipping container. Never use any kind of razor or knife to open the delivery packaging, as this could result in cuts or damage to the artwork.
It is especially important to take loving care of your prized possession. It will maintain the newness of the art which makes its’ life long. It will keep the newness of the art which makes its’ life long and great looking for all to view. Here are some steps to assist in preserving your magnificent work of art.
The Fundamentals of Art
Drawing is the most basic element of art, through studying the techniques of the craft, when applied correctly they can be utilized to produce a representation of an object on two-dimensional support (wood, hard-board, canvas, etc.,) Each work of art starts with the preliminary study (study) along with the skill of composition development. Utilizing the factors and the elements of drawing: line, shape, texture, form, space, color, and value, along with the ten common principles of art: balance, emphasis, harmony, movement, pattern, proportion, repetition, rhythm, unity, and variety. Skillfully combining these elements and principles using a medium, one can create a vast amount of fine art drawings and paintings. These works of art need to be protected and cleaned from particles of dust & debris which can dull the artwork in a small period of time.
Because you spent good hard money on your fine artwork, it is especially important to take safe care of your prized possession. It will keep the newness of the art which makes its’ life long and great looking for all to view. Here are 4 steps to assist in preserving your magnificent work of art.
1. Room/Area Selection:
Care for an original oil painting: The best display for original paintings is in the open where it gets maximum views, but the area needs consideration. The place should have proper lighting, but make sure to hang paintings away from direct sunlight, bright overhead lights, and fireplaces. Do not keep the painting anywhere with fluctuating temperatures, and make sure the wall where the painting hangs has no dampness or moister, as all these conditions tend to harm the painting.
2. Hanging the Painting:
Before you hang the painting, make sure the hook is appropriate to hold the size of the artwork and suspend the painting on a wall stud so that the painting does not fall causing damage. Do not rely on regular nails for hanging a priceless painting. Screws or heavy-duty picture-hanging hooks hold the framing more securely.
3. Handle with Care:
Whenever you need to take down the painting for cleaning, always manage the frame without touching the surface of the painting with your hands. Wash and dry your hands to avoid moisture from damaging the surface of the painting. Wear gloves to protect it from your hands. In no way use a harsh cloth to cleanse the painting. Always keep the painting away from wet areas.
4. Cleaning the Painting:
Do not clean the oil painting on a regular schedule but only when required, such as dirt, dust, or grime build-up. Clean the front of the painting gently with a soft white cloth (do not use dyed fabric) to remove the loose dust on the painted surface, alternatively, use a soft microfiber cloth as the painting requires soft careful treatment. Do not use harsh detergents, clean the back of the painting with an incredibly soft brush. Finally, the easiest way to clean acrylic or oil painting on stretch canvas is to use a white cotton microfiber cloth soaked in mild soapy water; olive oil-based soap does great as it removes any build-up grime. Be gentle with paintings with thick acrylic or oil impasto painting techniques, as you do not want to break the hardened paint.
If you find any insect infestation, DO NOT KILL THEM ON THE PAINTING, remove them then kill the bugs. For any stains or yellowing damage on the painting wrap it in shipping bubble wrap and let a professional art restorer examine and/or complete the restoration work.