I know if it's framed behind glass and out of direct sunlight, that helps. Is there anything else you can do to preserve the life of a watercolor painting?
2007-06-24 06:27:21 · 6 answers · asked by sundothburn 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Visual Arts ➔ Painting
the life of a watercolor painting really depends on the type of paper it is on. if the paper has a high acid content, it will deteriorate in less than 2-3 years, even in the safest condition it may be. deteriorate in terms of colors fading and yellowing of the paper itself.... they say that the best way to preserve a watercolor painting is in its preparation, coupled with the best materials and proper display/storage.
but if you dont know the history of your watercolor painting, the best way to preserve it is to keep it away from light, away from humid places, and away from possible contaminants. in otherwords, if its new, display it, if its old, archive it. =)
2007-06-24 06:51:21 · answer #1 · answered by Tikbalang 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Protecting Watercolor Paintings
2016-11-04 13:21:37 · answer #2 · answered by anicet 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Before Framing:
Place your painting between two pieces of acid-free paper to prevent damage from dust and dirt.
Lay it flat and keep it out of the light.
Store it in a cool, dry place.
When painting a picture, use acid-free paper and high-quality paints. Paints should have a light fastness rating of 1 or 2.
When purchasing original artwork, speak to the artist if possible. Ask about the type of paper and paint quality used for the painting.
Framing:
Frame your painting as soon as possible to protect it from dirt, dust and handling.
Mat your painting using acid-free mat board. A mat allows air to circulate around the painting and prevents damage from moisture.
Hinge mount your painting. Mounting your painting provides support and protects it from bending and warping.
Frame your painting under ultraviolet (UV)-protective glass to protect it from fading.
Seal the back of the picture frame with paper to keep dust and insects out.
Hang your painting away from direct sunlight.
Vacuum mounting is not recommended for quality artwork. This process permanently fuses the painting to the mat board, reducing the value of the piece. It is recommended for inexpensive posters only.
It is worth the investment to have good quality art mounted, matted and framed by a licensed, professional framer.
Do not place artwork directly against the framing glass. This will trap moisture and damage the painting.
2007-06-24 06:34:28 · answer #3 · answered by riverclarin 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your first step should be the paper and paint you use. Good quality paper such as Arches, and good artists paints. Cheap paint and paper will fad and yellow over time. Also at your frame shop check for UV coated glass. Make sure your water color is not taped behind the matt, it should be able to move around. Also watch the humidity in your house.
2007-06-24 06:35:24 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as they are framed and hung out of the sunlight they really do not need much preservation.
I have my Mothers that she did in the mid twenties and they are almost like new even now.
2007-06-24 06:35:06 · answer #5 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As far as I know you have all the right ideas, I've never heard of anything else. Try a conservation website or ask a local gallery owner. Use the internet and Google on "fine art conservation" for more help.
2007-06-24 06:37:19 · answer #6 · answered by dog mom 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋