Leo Martínez
Artists, collectors, and designers know that storing paintings is an art form. It is essential to consider how best to preserve art to maintain its original form. Paintings are delicate and susceptible to moisture, breakage, tears, smudges, stains, fading, and impact. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the dos and don'ts of art storage. This includes storing art in a cool, dark, dry place with controlled humidity and temperature to prevent damage from extreme conditions and fluctuations. Additionally, avoid direct contact with the artwork and use gloves or acid-free paper when handling to prevent fingerprints and smudges. When wrapping artwork, avoid plastic wrap as it can trap humidity and cause mould. Instead, use acid-free paper, tissue paper, or glassine and store paintings vertically to prevent stacking weight from damaging the artwork. Finally, insure your artwork and document each piece with photos and a list of titles and artists for future reference.
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What You'll Learn
Store paintings in a cool, dry, dark place
When storing a lot of paintings, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place. This is because moisture, heat, and varying temperatures can damage paintings. Water can encourage mould growth and mildew damage, and the cold and heat can cause the canvas to expand and contract, and eventually warp.
To store paintings in a cool, dry, and dark place, there are several options. One option is to use a climate-controlled storage unit, which can be found at several locations across the country. These units are kept within a specific temperature range year-round, helping to protect items from extreme temperature fluctuations. They are also generally indoors, attracting less dust and debris than drive-up units. Another option is to store the paintings in your home in a temperature-controlled area where the temperature and humidity can be kept consistent. A basement or attic is generally not recommended due to the potential for extreme temperatures or humidity.
It is also important to keep the paintings elevated and off the ground, as this will help prevent accidental damage from being stepped on or from dirt and moisture. Concrete floors, for example, may cause the artwork to absorb dampness or moisture, and painted floors may scuff or stain the artwork. Vertical storage on a wall or a gridwall panel is one option, or the paintings can be stored on a shelf, easel, or riser.
Additionally, it is recommended to keep the paintings out of direct sunlight, as the ultraviolet rays can damage art by causing pigment to fade, paper to yellow, and resin to become unstable. If a dark room is not available, a dark cabinet or solander box can be used.
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Avoid basements and attics
When storing artwork, it is important to keep paintings in a controlled environment. Basements and attics are typically not ideal places to store paintings. This is because these spaces are susceptible to extreme temperature changes and high humidity, which can damage the artwork. For example, cotton canvas is more susceptible to warping under extreme temperatures or high humidity.
Additionally, attics and basements may not be completely dark, and temperature fluctuations and exposure to sunlight can cause pigment to fade and resin to become unstable. Direct sunlight can also cause paper to yellow more quickly, and soot can accumulate on the surface of a painting if it is hung above a fireplace.
Moreover, attics and basements may not be dust- and debris-free, which can also damage artwork over time. Basements, in particular, may be damp, which can cause mould and further damage the artwork.
Therefore, it is recommended to store paintings in a climate-controlled storage unit with consistent temperatures and regulated humidity levels to prevent damage to the artwork.
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Use acid-free paper to wrap unframed paintings
Wrapping unframed paintings in acid-free paper is a great way to protect your artwork. Firstly, acid-free paper is essential for preventing discolouration. Paper is prone to oxidising, which means it can go yellow and fade over time. Acid-free paper has a neutral pH level, so it won't introduce new acids to the artwork it comes into contact with. This is particularly important for paper-based artwork, such as sketches, drawings, and prints.
Secondly, acid-free paper is useful for preventing stains. Common DIY packing materials, such as newspaper, can stain the surface of your paintings. Acid-free paper acts as a barrier between your artwork and its packaging, protecting it from dust and other debris. It also provides some extra padding during the packing and moving process.
Thirdly, acid-free paper can help to prevent unwanted chemical reactions. When artworks are stored pressed together, they can stick to each other, causing damage. Acid-free paper can be used to separate artworks and prevent this kind of damage.
When choosing acid-free paper, it's important to select the right product for the materials that need preservation. Acid-free paper comes in different thicknesses, so you can choose the level of protection you need. Thicker paper, such as Legion Interleaving Paper, provides top-grade protection and is ideal for large artworks. Thinner paper, such as the Linen Lady Archival Tissue Paper, is a good option if you're looking for a balance between protection and bulk. It's also important to note that acid-free paper is not always the best option for long-term storage. Inert plastics, such as polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene, are chemically stable and can be better for protecting artworks over long periods.
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Store paintings vertically, never stacked
When storing a large number of paintings, it's important to keep them off the ground and vertical. This will help prevent accidental damage from people stepping on them, and it will also reduce the risk of the artwork getting damaged by the material of the floor. For example, artwork can absorb dampness or moisture from a concrete floor, and painted floors may scuff or stain the artwork.
Vertical storage can be achieved by hanging paintings on a wall, or by using a gridwall panel. Alternatively, a shelf, easel, or riser can be used to keep artwork dust and moisture-free.
Laying paintings flat is not recommended, as this can lead to rips and tears if something falls on the canvas. Stacking paintings is also not advised, as this can cause damage to the pieces at the bottom of the pile. The weight of the paintings can cause frames to crack, and any shifting could result in smudges or punctures on the canvas. Even a single painting stored horizontally is at risk of warping or stretching, or being accidentally stood on.
If you must store paintings horizontally, use protective storage measures such as painting racks or solander boxes. Paintings should be supported at least 7-10 cm above the floor to protect them from dirt, dust, and possible contact with water.
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Insure your artwork
Insuring your artwork can provide peace of mind, especially when storing delicate items. Here are some key considerations and steps to insure your artwork effectively:
Types of Artwork Insurance
Artwork insurance policies vary, and it's important to understand the different types before choosing one that suits your needs. The three main types of artwork insurance are:
- Fine art insurance: This type of policy covers paintings, sculptures, and other pieces considered "fine" art. It protects against damage, destruction, or theft.
- General property insurance: Typically offered as part of homeowners' insurance, this covers damage caused by natural disasters, theft, and sometimes includes limited coverage for stolen items.
- Builder's risk insurance: This policy is specific to protecting artwork during construction or renovation. It's ideal if you're building a new space to display your art and want coverage during that process.
Other types of artwork insurance include all-risk insurance, which provides comprehensive coverage, and art object insurance, which is suitable for expensive artwork and corresponds to about 0.5% of the insured's wealth.
Value Appraisal
Before insuring your artwork, it's essential to have it appraised to determine its value. There are two methods: the declared value, which you can provide to the insurer without proof, and the agreed value, where a specialised auctioneer authenticates and estimates the insurance value of the artwork. Obtaining an official appraisal document is recommended as it serves as proof and helps authenticate the artwork.
Choosing an Insurer
When choosing an insurer, consider consulting a firm specialising in fine art insurance, especially if you have multiple artworks exceeding a certain value (e.g., $10,000 each). These firms can evaluate the risk, provide quotes, and handle coverage in the event of a loss. You may also opt to engage a broker to act as an intermediary between you and the insurer.
Coverage Details
Artwork insurance typically covers damage, destruction, or theft. Most policies will reimburse you for the value of your artwork if it is stolen or cover repairs if a loss occurs. Some policies also cover loss of income if your artwork is damaged and you can no longer generate income from it. Forgery insurance is another aspect to consider, especially for high-value artworks where forgery is a concern.
Exclusions
Artwork insurance policies usually do not cover damage that occurs gradually, such as water damage or fading due to sunlight exposure. Be sure to carefully review your policy's exclusions and contact your insurance agent if you have any questions about specific types of damage coverage.
By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively insure your artwork and gain peace of mind, knowing that your valuable pieces are protected.
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Frequently asked questions
First, ensure your paintings are clean and completely dry, especially if they are oil-based. Wrap unframed paintings in acid-free paper, tissue paper, or another breathable material. Avoid using plastic wrap as this can create an airtight seal, which can be damaging. Instead, use bubble wrap and ensure the painting can breathe.
A climate-controlled storage unit is ideal for artwork. Basements and attics are not recommended as they are susceptible to extreme temperatures and humidity. A temperature of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius) and 40-50% humidity is ideal.
Ensure framed paintings are wrapped with appropriate padding and support, such as bubble wrap and styrofoam supports. Place the wrapped paintings into cardboard boxes.
Unframed paintings should be stored in binders, portfolios, or sleeves. Use cotton gloves to prevent fingerprints and natural oils from damaging the artwork.
Paintings should be stored upright and off the ground. Avoid stacking them as this can cause damage. Use vertical storage or a gridwall panel to hang your artwork.
