How to Care for Your Artwork - Preservation Tips for Your Painting Purchase

A painting is an investment, but it’s also something more. The painting you purchased inspired you, comforted you, or stirred something deep. It’s something to treasure for years to come, maybe even to hand off to the next generation, so we’re sharing how to care for your painting now that it’s in your home.

Framed and unframed paintings require different approaches to preservation, but with a few simple tips, you can protect your collection and keep it at its best for longer.

General Care Tips for All Artwork

Regardless of the medium you purchased, there are some universal practices that every collector should follow to maintain their pieces.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Sunlight is one of the biggest threats to artwork. Prolonged exposure can cause colours to fade and materials to deteriorate. You have likely seen this effect on your carpets and books, and it cannot be undone. Position your artwork in areas with indirect light or use UV-filtering window films to minimise damage.

Maintain a Stable Environment

Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can wreak havoc on paintings, causing warping, cracking, or mould growth. Aim to keep your space at a consistent temperature between 18-24°C and humidity levels between 40-50%. While our seasons can create more fluctuation than that, the common-sense approach of placing it somewhere temperate in your home will work wonders.

Caring for Framed Paintings

Framed paintings are often better protected than unframed ones, but still require attention to ensure their longevity.

Proper Hanging 

Use sturdy hardware that can support the weight of the frame. A large, professionally framed painting can be a significant weight. And avoid hanging artwork near heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces, or in areas with high humidity, like bathrooms. These conditions can damage both the frame and the painting.

Glass Protection 

When cleaning the glass, use a soft, microfibre cloth and a non-ammonia-based cleaner. Spray the cleaner onto the cloth, not directly onto the glass, to prevent liquid from seeping into the frame.

Check Frame Condition

Regularly inspect the frame and matting for signs of wear, such as loose corners, discoloration, or damage. Addressing these issues early can prevent further harm to the artwork.

Caring for Unframed Paintings

Unframed paintings require extra care to avoid damage during handling and storage. (If you have purchased an unframed painting but would like it framed, we offer this service.)

Handling with Care

Always handle unframed artwork with clean hands or wear cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring onto the surface. Even minor smudges can be challenging to remove without professional restoration. Avoid unnecessary touching altogether.

Regular Dusting

Dust can accumulate on artwork over time, dulling its appearance. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or a clean artist’s brush to gently remove dust as part of your regular cleaning. Avoid using cleaning sprays or water, as they can damage the surface.

Enjoy your Painting!

We hope you found these tips helpful, but we are happy to guide you on how best to care for your painting when you are in our gallery. Proper care will allow you to enjoy your pieces while preserving their value and beauty for the long term.

If you have any questions or wish to browse our collection, pop in and see us on PortstewART Promenade.

📍49 The Promenade, Portstewart, Northern Ireland, BT55 7AE 📞+44 (0)28 7083 4600