Collecting Basics: Conservation How do I preserve original artwork? Taking care of your artwork after you have purchased it seems like an obvious thing to do, but you would be surprised at how few people know about or pay attention to the basic rules of conservation. Appropriate framing and hanging will solve most of the problems before they start. Prevention is the best cure Degradation of works of art is normally a slow process, one that is not very noticeable until it has gone way too far. This is particularly true for works on paper (prints and drawings), which are particularly vulnerable to damage but are contained in mats and frames that often hide from view most of the damaged areas. The chemical properties of the materials used to make an artwork determine how long and how well that artwork will last. The specific risks associated with oil painting differ from those for tempera, and oils on canvas have different problems than oils on board. There is no such thing as damage-proof art; every combination of materials presents its own specific conservation considerations. But by taking temperature, humidity, and light into account, you can keep damage to your collection to a minimum. Mind the heat (and cold) Cracking Oil Paint In general, your works of art will do best in a moderately heated, stable environment. The temperature and humidity should stay within a range that is comfortable for you, and should not fluctuate widely — certainly not as widely as these conditions tend to fluctuate in most of the world's climates. Extreme heat and cold can cause the properties of many art materials to change. For example, sudden shifts between hot and cold can cause a canvas painted with oils to expand and contract, cracking the oil paint slightly in the process. Keeping the temperature relatively stable eliminates this cracking. Don't let the dampness get to you (or your art) Mold Growth Paper is especially sensitive to humidity. The ambient humidity of Hawaii or Florida, and in much of the Midwestern and Eastern United States in the summer months, can cause this mold to grow on your beloved sketches or prints. You may not notice mold until it is well established, as it grows best in the dark areas covered by the mat. Be sure that works on paper are framed properly, and the back of the frame is sealed (see Framing in Art Smart). If you live in a very humid region, using air conditioning or a de-humidifier can help preserve your artwork. Made in the shade Differential Fading When conservationists say that color is fugitive, they mean that it fades when exposed to light. Colors made from earth, especially when bonded with the surface of the artwork (as in fresco), are the most stable. That is why, after centuries of exposure, frescoes are still fresh and vibrant in color. But other colors — especially watercolors — will fade quickly when exposed to direct light. Again, paper is especially sensitive, and it may burn (just like you) when exposed to direct light. Always keep your works of art out of direct sunlight. Hang them on the walls facing away from windows, or at least perpendicular to them — never on walls facing windows. You won't notice that the colors fading, or the paper browning, until you compare your art to a photo of what it used to look like. The difference will be shock to both your eyes and your wallet, as a damaged piece can lose a significant portion of its value. Acid-free is the way to be Acid Stain Finally, mat, frame and store all works, especially works on paper, with archival material — material that is chemically neutral and stable. Any acidic material (cardboard, for example) will slowly transfer acid from the board to your art. Over time, this acid will stain the paper, and eventually make it so brittle that it will crumble in your hands. See Framing for our recommendations. Next: Further Reading — Where do I go to find out more?