The Custodian’s Guide
Conditions of preservation
Light
Light could cause chemical changes in many materials used in our artworks. Sustained exposure to ultra violet rays found in natural light is the most damaging. We suggest to minimise natural daylight and use light which filters out UV.
Temperature and relative humidity
A constant climate is the ideal situation for keeping works of art stable. The standard temperature for keeping your artworks safe is 20ºC ± 1ºC. The accepted standard for relative humidity is 50% ± 3%. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity set up cycles of expansion and contraction which will inexorably lead to the deterioration of artworks.
Dust
Dust is composed of minute particles including some hard substances that can scratch artwork if rubbed against the surface of a painting. Some types of dirt, including insect debris, can contain acidic components which eat into the artwork surface. Similarly, industrial air pollutants can affect the artwork or the finish on a frame. It is important to keep artworks free from dust and dirt and away from air pollutants.
Physical vibration or impact
Always transport your Atelier WOCS artworks in protective crates to reduce vibration from movement and shock. The best option if you are going long distances or have large pieces of the collection, is to use a removal company specializing in art transport.
Hanging
For example, an artwork hanging in a bathroom will be subjected to fluctuating conditions of temperature and humidity. If the moisture content of the air is high enough mould growth will flourish, resulting in disfigurement of the image and in many cases a permanent change in the artwork surface. Not all damage is treatable, so it is best to take preventive action and hang your artwork away from outside walls, direct sunlight or spotlighting, water pipes and splashing, wet or very dry areas, high traffic areas such as hallways where contact with the painting may occur, open fires, gas fires and heating/cooling ducts, tobacco smoke and food preparation areas.
Deteriorated or damaged artworks
If your artwork does sustain damage or is in a deteriorated or dirty condition, don’t attempt to repair or clean it yourself. Artwork surfaces are extremely vulnerable to hands touching (use gloves), water and other cleaning agents which may damage them irreparably. Get in touch with Atelier WOCS for any query or seek advice from a local professional art framer.