How To Store Artwork – Your Complete Guide
Proper art storage is crucial to preserving the integrity, value, and longevity of artworks. It involves maintaining a controlled environment that protects art from harmful factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, light exposure, and physical damage. Proper storage ensures that art remains in its original condition, preventing deterioration, discoloration, and other forms of degradation.
This is particularly important for pieces made from delicate or organic materials, which can be highly sensitive to environmental changes. Moreover, secure storage solutions safeguard artworks from theft and accidental damage. Investing in appropriate art storage not only protects cultural heritage and personal collections but also maintains the financial value of the pieces, ensuring that they can be appreciated by future generations.
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Types of Art and Their Specific Storage Needs
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the integrity and longevity of various types of art. Each type of art, from paintings to textiles, has specific storage requirements to protect it from damage caused by environmental factors, handling, and time.
Oil Paintings
Storage Needs: Oil paintings should be stored in a climate-controlled environment with a temperature range of 65-70°F (18-21°C) and relative humidity of 40-50%. They should be kept in the dark or low-light conditions to prevent fading and deterioration. Paintings should be stored vertically on racks, with protective padding between each piece to prevent physical damage.
Acrylic Paintings
Storage Needs: Acrylic paintings are more flexible and less prone to cracking than oil paintings, but they still require a stable environment. Ideal conditions are similar to those for oil paintings, with temperature and humidity control. Acrylic paintings should also be stored vertically and protected from dust and direct sunlight.
Watercolors
Storage Needs: Watercolors are particularly sensitive to light and humidity. They should be stored in a cool, dry place with a relative humidity of around 30-50%. Watercolors should be kept in acid-free storage boxes or flat files, with protective layers such as glassine paper to prevent smudging and physical damage.
Bronze Sculptures
Storage Needs: Bronze sculptures require a controlled environment with low humidity to prevent corrosion. A relative humidity below 40% is ideal. They should be stored on padded surfaces to prevent scratches and physical damage and covered with dust cloths to keep them clean.
Marble Sculptures
Storage Needs: Marble sculptures are susceptible to surface erosion and staining. They should be stored in a stable environment with moderate humidity (40-60%) and away from acidic or corrosive materials. Marble pieces should be placed on sturdy, padded bases to distribute weight evenly and avoid pressure points.
Wooden Sculptures
Storage Needs: Wooden sculptures are highly sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity, which can cause warping or cracking. Ideal storage conditions include a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C) and relative humidity of 40-60%. Wooden sculptures should be stored in a well-ventilated area and protected from pests.
Drawings
Storage Needs: Drawings, especially those made with delicate materials like charcoal or pastel, require careful handling and storage. They should be stored in acid-free folders or boxes, interleaved with archival tissue paper. The environment should be cool and dry, with a relative humidity of 30-50%.
Prints
Storage Needs: Prints should be stored flat in acid-free boxes or vertically in archival folders. The storage area should have stable temperature and humidity, similar to other paper-based art, to prevent warping and degradation. Prints should also be protected from light exposure to avoid fading.
Photographs
Storage Needs: Photographs are highly sensitive to light, humidity, and temperature. They should be stored in acid-free, photo-safe sleeves or boxes, in a cool, dark place with a relative humidity of 30-40%. Black-and-white photographs generally have different storage needs compared to color photographs, which are more susceptible to fading.
General Principles of Art Storage
Proper art storage is essential for preserving the integrity and value of artworks. The general principles of art storage include maintaining appropriate climate control, managing light exposure, and implementing pest control measures.
1. Climate Control
Climate control is crucial for preventing damage to art caused by fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Temperature
Artworks should be stored at a stable temperature, typically between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Sudden temperature changes can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to cracking, warping, or other forms of degradation.
Humidity
The relative humidity (RH) should be kept between 40% and 60%. High humidity can promote mold growth and metal corrosion, while low humidity can lead to brittleness and cracking in organic materials like wood, paper, and textiles. Maintaining a consistent RH level helps in preserving the physical and chemical integrity of artworks.
2. Light Exposure
Exposure to light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, can cause significant damage to artworks over time.
UV Damage
UV light can cause colors to fade, paper to yellow, and other materials to deteriorate. It is important to minimize exposure to UV light by using UV-filtering glass or acrylic when framing artworks and by installing UV filters on windows and lighting fixtures.
Appropriate Lighting Conditions
Artworks should be illuminated with appropriate lighting levels to prevent damage. Low-intensity, non-heat emitting light sources, such as LED lights, are recommended. Light exposure should be limited to the necessary duration, with artworks kept in the dark when not on display to further reduce potential damage.
3. Pest Control
Pests can cause physical damage to artworks by chewing, nesting, or excreting on them.
Common Pests
Common pests that threaten artworks include insects like silverfish, carpet beetles, and termites, as well as rodents. These pests can damage paper, wood, textiles, and other materials.
Prevention Measures
Prevention measures include maintaining a clean storage environment, using pest-proof storage containers, and regularly inspecting artworks for signs of infestation. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, such as traps and non-toxic treatments, can be employed to monitor and control pest populations without causing harm to the artworks.
By adhering to these principles, art collectors, museums, and galleries can ensure that their valuable collections are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
How to Prepare Art for Storage
Cleaning and Conservation
Proper cleaning and conservation are essential steps to ensure the longevity and preservation of artwork before it goes into storage.
1. Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning is crucial for artworks, particularly those that are older or have significant value. Over time, dust, dirt, and other environmental pollutants can accumulate on the surface of the art, potentially causing damage or deterioration. A professional conservator can clean the artwork using specialized techniques and materials that are safe for the specific medium (e.g., oil paint, watercolor, sculpture materials). They have the expertise to handle delicate surfaces and can remove contaminants without harming the integrity of the piece.
2. Minor Repairs
Before storing art, it is important to address any minor repairs that might be needed. This can include fixing small tears in canvases, repairing frames, or reattaching loose parts of sculptures. By taking care of these minor issues before storage, you can prevent further damage and ensure that the artwork remains in good condition while it is not on display. Professional conservators can perform these repairs, ensuring that they are done correctly and with materials that are compatible with the original artwork.
Proper Packaging Materials
Using the right packaging materials is essential to protect artwork during storage. Improper packaging can lead to physical damage, environmental harm, and other issues that can compromise the integrity of the art.
1. Acid-Free Paper and Cardboard
Acid-free paper and cardboard are fundamental materials for packaging artwork. Traditional paper and cardboard can contain acids that, over time, will damage and discolor the artwork. Acid-free materials, however, are pH neutral and will not react with the art, ensuring that it remains in its original condition. These materials are especially important for works on paper, such as drawings, prints, and photographs.
2. Bubble Wrap and Padding
Bubble wrap and other padding materials provide cushioning to protect artwork from physical impacts and vibrations during handling and storage. When using bubble wrap, it is important to ensure that the bubbles are facing outward to prevent impressions on the surface of the artwork. Additionally, padding should be used generously around the piece, especially at corners and edges, which are more vulnerable to damage.
3. Custom Crates and Boxes
For more valuable or fragile artworks, custom crates and boxes offer the best protection. These crates are designed to fit the specific dimensions and needs of the artwork, providing a secure environment that minimizes movement and exposure to environmental factors. Custom crates often include interior supports, foam padding, and other features to ensure that the artwork remains stable and safe during storage and transportation. Investing in custom packaging is especially important for large, heavy, or irregularly shaped pieces that require special handling.
This detailed approach to preparing art for storage ensures that each piece is treated with the care it deserves, preserving its beauty and integrity for future generations.
How to Store Art in Different Environments
Storing art properly is essential to ensure its preservation and longevity. Whether you’re keeping artwork at home, utilizing professional storage facilities, or finding temporary storage solutions, it’s important to consider the specific needs of each piece. Here’s an overview of different storage environments and best practices:
Home Storage
Suitable Locations Within a Home
When storing art at home, choose locations that are stable in terms of temperature and humidity. Ideal spots include:
- Interior rooms away from exterior walls to avoid temperature fluctuations.
- Rooms with minimal direct sunlight to prevent UV damage.
- Spaces with good air circulation to avoid mold and mildew.
- Avoid basements and attics as they are prone to dampness and extreme temperatures.
DIY Storage Solutions
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, here are some DIY solutions:
- Use acid-free materials such as tissue paper and cardboard for wrapping and cushioning.
- Store paintings vertically with a slight tilt to prevent warping and stacking damage.
- For sculptures or fragile items, consider custom-built crates or padded boxes.
- Install shelves with padded surfaces for small to medium-sized pieces.
- Ensure proper support and spacing for framed artworks to prevent pressure points and scratches.
Professional Storage Facilities
Benefits of Professional Storage
- Opting for professional storage facilities offers several advantages:
- Climate-controlled environments that maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels.
- Advanced security measures, including surveillance systems and restricted access.
- Professional handling and packing services to minimize risk of damage.
- Insurance options for added peace of mind.
- Specialized storage units tailored to different types of art.
Selecting a Reputable Facility
When choosing a professional storage facility, consider the following factors:
- Reputation and reviews from other artists and collectors.
- Availability of climate control and environmental monitoring.
- Security protocols, including fire suppression systems and theft prevention.
- Accessibility for regular inspections and retrievals.
- Transparent pricing and clear terms of service.
Temporary Storage
Short-Term Solutions
Sometimes, temporary storage is necessary, such as during renovations or relocations. Short-term solutions include:
- Renting climate-controlled storage units on a monthly basis.
- Using portable art storage racks or bins for easy transportation.
- Temporary art storage services offered by museums or galleries during exhibitions or events.
Precautions to Take
When using temporary storage, take these precautions to protect your artwork:
- Ensure the temporary storage environment is clean, dry, and free of pests.
- Use proper packing materials and techniques to cushion and protect art.
- Label each piece clearly and keep an inventory for easy tracking.
- Regularly check the condition of stored art to address any issues promptly.
- Avoid storing art in high-traffic areas or places prone to accidental damage.
By understanding the specific requirements for storing art in different environments, you can ensure your valuable pieces remain in excellent condition, whether they are displayed at home, safeguarded in professional facilities, or kept temporarily during transitions.