This post explaint how to keep oil paintings in a good condition and to prevent them from cracking and discoloration.
Every art collector wants to be sure that his/her oil painting collection will maintain its quality for many years and inspire not only him but also his children and grandchildren.
There are some simple rules can be followed to ensure the long life of an oil painting.
Keep it out of direct sunlight. Exposure to strong direct sunlight leads to decoloration of the painting. This happens due to ultraviolet ray that are harmful for many materials including paint.
Avoid extremes and fluctuations in temperature. Temperature changes cause expansion and contraction of the materials (wood and cloth) and lead to craks or flakes of the paint. The ideal temperature for oil paintings is between 18 and 20 degrees C (65 – 68 degrees F).
Yellowness. In case an oil painting was kept in a complete darkness, it may yellow sometimes. This yellowness can be easily eliminated by placing a painting in a lighted place for a while (but not a direct sunlight).
Avoid places with exessive humidity, such as bathrooms. Ideal humidity level for an oil painting is 50%.
If you need to hang a painting in a kitchen, frame it under glass to protect from possible greese and hit.
In case you live a coastal area, it is recommended to frame oil paintings under glass and with a back support. Such framing will protect the artworks from salty humid air.
Dust oil paintings only with a soft dusting brush. Avoid rubbing or spraying any liquids while cleaning them.
I hope these simple advices can help you to enjoy your oil painting collection longer.
