Isabella Flores
Framing paintings under glass is a popular practice, but it is not suitable for all types of art. Acrylic paintings, for instance, are generally not framed under glass. This is because acrylic paint is sensitive to temperature, and can soften in hot environments, allowing dust and dirt to settle within the paintwork. However, if an acrylic painting is on paper, framing it behind glass can protect the delicate paper from damage. Additionally, if the artwork is to be kept in a hot environment, framing it under glass can help to protect the paintwork.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Framing acrylic paintings under glass | Not common |
| Reason | Reflection, off-gassing, and the artwork's texture |
| Alternative | Acrylic glazing |
| Acrylic glazing advantages | Lighter, clearer, flexible, safer, and easier to ship |
| Acrylic glazing disadvantages | Prone to scratches, costly, and attracts dust |
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What You'll Learn
Reflection and visual separation
Reflection is a key consideration when framing acrylic paintings under glass. While glass provides protection to the artwork, it can also cause unwanted glare and reflections that distract from the piece itself. This is particularly true for glossy or shiny artworks, which can reflect light even without the use of glass.
To combat this issue, several options are available. Firstly, the simplest solution is to avoid using any glass or acrylic glazing altogether. This eliminates the possibility of reflections and reduces overall cost. However, this option leaves the artwork vulnerable to damage from curious fingers, dust, grime, and UV radiation.
Another option is to use specialty non-glare or anti-reflective glazing. Non-glare acrylic glazing features an etched surface that reduces reflection but results in a loss of sharpness, especially when used with double mats or in shadow box framing. On the other hand, anti-reflective glass uses a special coating to reduce reflection without compromising image sharpness. Water White Anti-Reflective glass, for example, has reduced iron content to eliminate the green tint found in regular glass, providing even more clarity.
Additionally, there are conservation, reflection control, and museum clarity options available for acrylic that are comparable to their glass counterparts but tend to be pricier. Tru Vue Optium Museum Acrylic, for instance, is anti-reflective, water white, and includes a UV filter to protect the artwork from fading. Acrylic is also shatter-resistant, which is a safer option for framing valuable artwork.
It is worth noting that some artists, like Francis Bacon, intentionally use glass to create a specific effect. Bacon wanted viewers to see themselves reflected in his paintings of bloody meats. Thus, reflection can be used as a creative element rather than simply a visual distraction.
In summary, while framing acrylic paintings under glass can provide protection, it is important to consider the potential for unwanted reflections and explore the various options available to minimise this issue, such as non-reflective glazing or alternative framing materials.
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Off-gassing and ghosting
Acrylic paintings are generally not framed under glass. This is because acrylics are sensitive to temperature, and warm temperatures can soften the surface of the painting, making it susceptible to damage. Direct contact with glass can also damage the surface of the painting by smearing, chipping, or sticking to the paint.
However, one reason to frame acrylic paintings under glass is to prevent off-gassing. Off-gassing refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from materials such as acrylic. While some sources claim that off-gassing from acrylic is not hazardous to health, others suggest that it can be harmful to individuals with autism. It is recommended to air out acrylic frames to reduce the effects of off-gassing.
Ghosting is another issue that can occur in acrylic paintings. Ghosting happens when a marker or solvent penetrates the layers of the painting, causing the colours to migrate through the new layers. This can be challenging to restore, and overpainting may not be a successful solution as the ghosting may continue to show through.
To prevent ghosting, it is recommended to use a lethal shellac-based primer such as Kilz or Vim to stop the marker from penetrating the layers of the painting.
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Support and protection
Acrylic paintings are generally not framed under glass. However, if an acrylic painting is on paper, framing behind glass is recommended to protect the delicate paper from damage. Paper is porous and will absorb the elements around it over a shorter period of time. Glass provides a sufficient barrier to protect the artwork.
If you do decide to frame an acrylic painting under glass, it is important to consider the weight of the frame. Glass is heavy, and for larger frames, the weight difference between a glass and acrylic cover can be significant. Acrylic is a thermoplastic that is lighter than glass and is also more flexible, making it less likely to break. However, acrylic is more prone to scratching and can be more expensive.
If you are framing an acrylic painting on canvas, it is recommended to avoid glazing. This is because acrylic paint is sensitive to temperature, and warm temperatures can soften the surface of the painting, making it more susceptible to damage. Hanging paintings in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources will help to protect the artwork.
To prevent damage to the surface of the painting, it is important that no one touches it with their fingers or any other implements. If you are hosting an event, you may want to hang a small plaque asking guests not to touch, or create a clear plastic shell that can be temporarily installed over the picture frame.
For additional protection, you can purchase UV protective glass, which will prevent damage to the artwork and provide resistance to fading.
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Medium and surface
When deciding whether to frame an acrylic painting behind glass, the main factor to consider is the medium used and the surface it has been completed on. Acrylic paintings on canvas do not generally require framing behind glass. Acrylic paint can soften in hot temperatures, allowing dust and dirt to settle within the paintwork. If your acrylic painting is on paper, framing behind glass is a good option to protect the delicate paper from damage.
Acrylic paintings are sensitive to temperature. Warm temperatures can soften the surface of a painting, making it more susceptible to damage by touch or by collecting dust and dirt in the paint. Avoid hanging paintings near heating vents, fireplaces, or any place that receives a lot of direct sunlight or heat.
Framing under glass can also cause reflection, which may detract from the artwork. Francis Bacon placed his paintings under glass so that viewers could see themselves in the paintings. Additionally, oil paints will "off-gas" or cure by evaporating, and the oils will transfer to the glass, essentially printing a ghost image of the painting.
Acrylic glazing is a thermoplastic developed in 1933, and its main disadvantage is its higher likelihood of being scratched. Acrylic is also flexible, making it less likely to break than glass. Acrylic is often clearer than glass, which can have a green tint, and due to its lighter weight, it is also more cost-effective to ship. For larger frames, the weight difference between glass and acrylic can be significant, and glass is more frequently used for smaller frames.
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Cost and conservation
Framing an acrylic painting under glass can be expensive. The cost of framing a painting depends on the size of the painting, the type of frame, and the type of glass or acrylic used. For example, the cost of framing a 22x28 piece of UV glass or acrylic will vary depending on whether you choose a basic or premium option. Basic UV glass or acrylic can cost around $10 per lite or $12 per sqft, while Museum glass, which offers better protection for your artwork, tends to be significantly more expensive. In some cases, the cost of framing can be almost as much as the artwork itself.
When it comes to conservation, there are several factors to consider when framing an acrylic painting under glass. Firstly, acrylic paintings are sensitive to temperature, so it is important to avoid hanging them near heat sources or places that receive direct sunlight. Warm temperatures can soften the paint, making it more susceptible to damage from touch or the collection of dust and dirt.
Secondly, direct contact with glass or acrylic glazing can damage the surface of the painting by smearing, chipping, or sticking to the paint. This is because oil-based paints take a long time to fully cure, and the oils can transfer to the glass, creating a "ghost image". To prevent this, spacers can be used to separate the artwork from the glazing.
Another factor to consider is reflection. While some artists, like Francis Bacon, have used reflection intentionally in their work, it can also be a distraction and take away from the viewing experience.
To conserve your acrylic painting, it is recommended to keep it in a safe location, away from children or pets who might touch or damage it. Additionally, it is advised to dust the painting on cooler days and to avoid hanging it in crowded areas where it might get accidentally damaged.
In summary, framing an acrylic painting under glass can be a costly endeavour, and there are several conservation factors to consider, including temperature sensitivity, direct contact with glazing, reflection, and the location and handling of the artwork.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic paintings do not require framing behind glass, especially if they are on canvas. Glass within the frame could hinder the artwork, and direct contact with glass can damage the surface of the painting by smearing, chipping, or sticking to the paint.
If your acrylic painting is on paper, framing behind glass is a good option to protect the delicate paper from damage.
Framing under glass provides a sufficient barrier and protection for the painting. It can also prevent damage to the artwork and provide some resistance to fading.
