A major benefit of owning an artist-made work is knowing that it was created with care and attention to detail that doesn’t apply to pieces coming off the assembly line. Although original works of art are made with durability and longevity in mind, there are a few simple things you can do to enhance your artwork’s life span. What follows is a list of basic tips for the care of your artwork.
Ceramics
Though a relatively hardy medium, ceramic pieces may crack, chip, or break if handled or used improperly. A ceramic sculpture, if displayed in an enclosed cabinet or case, will be protected from dirt and dust. If you need to clean your ceramic piece, consult its glaze. Unglazed pieces can be brushed with a soft makeup brush or paintbrush—or sprayed with canned air. Glazed pieces are best washed in lukewarm water and a gentle soap. (You may want to line your sink with a towel or rubber mat in case it slips!) Extreme fluctuations in temperature or humidity can be harmful to delicate pieces; likewise, even oven-safe stoneware dishes should not be placed directly into a hot oven. Instead, allow the dish to heat up along with the oven.
Fiber
To ensure they receive proper air circulation, many fiber works are generally left unframed. Fiber wall hangings benefit from limited handling and an occasional vacuuming, using a gentle attachment, to keep them free of dust. Consult the artist about the best way to hang the piece—it’s often best to attach a fabric sleeve to the back and mount it using a wooden slat or rod. Use soft, cool lighting near these pieces to prevent the breakdown of individual fibers. Fiber floor coverings may be spot cleaned with a commercial cleaner (it’s best to ask the artist for a recommendation) or cleaned professionally as needed. Limit direct sun exposure to all fiber pieces in order to prevent fading or discoloration.
Glass
Use care when handling glass works—and two hands! Make sure your hands are clean, but don’t wear gloves, which may be too slippery. Avoid lifting glass pieces from handles, spouts, or other protruding elements. How you clean your piece may depend on the type of glass from which it’s created. Cast glass is best simply dusted with a soft brush. Glass lighting may be cleaned with a basic glass cleaner—just make sure to clean it when it is at room temperature. Glossy blown glass can be wiped with a soft cloth moistened with vinegar and water, or any other non-abrasive cleaner.
Jewelry
Proper care for jewelry depends mainly on the materials used to create it, though a few commonsense rules always apply. For example, remove jewelry before heavy exercise, strenuous work, or contact with chemicals. In particular, keep it away from the chlorine bleach found in household cleaning products or swimming pools—it will have a damaging oxidizing effect. To prevent scratching, store individual pieces in separate compartments or wrapped in tissue paper. Earrings require regular maintenance: clean posts or earwires with rubbing alcohol each time you wear them and avoid wearing them to bed. Other pieces should be wiped gently with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth after you wear them. Use jewelry cleaning solutions and ultrasonic cleaners only with caution: these products can damage soft stones or settings. When in doubt, have treasured pieces professionally cleaned.
Metal
Whatever their surface treatment, metal works are often finished with a protective wax, lacquer, or paint. If your metal piece is outdoors, its surface may need protection from pollution, dirt, and natural elements. Ask the artist what kind of changes you can expect so you won’t be surprised later on, and have him guide you to the best protective strategy. Indoors, metal pieces or architectural elements can be cleaned with an oil-based polish and then buffed with a dry rag. Bronze, however, should only be dusted with a lint-free cloth or feather duster. For heavier bronze cleaning, use distilled water, then dry the piece thoroughly.
Paintings
Painters apply everything from watercolors to oil paints—or sometimes an unusual combination of several media—to a wide variety of surfaces. Most should be framed without glass, which means they are highly susceptible to their environments, particularly to sunlight. Pastels are the exception, and they should be framed only under glass (thermoplastic has a magnetic pull.) Oil paintings are quite durable provided they have been properly varnished. (They can even withstand touch, which makes them a nice option for children’s rooms.) Keep oil paintings clean by wiping them gently with a damp cloth. Because the oil is impervious to water, you won’t damage your artwork. Acrylic paintings, by contrast, should be dusted lightly with a soft brush.
Photographs and Prints
Works on paper are generally more delicate than works on canvas and should be framed behind glass. Be sure your framer uses acid-free, archival materials to ensure no harm comes to your artwork. Frame photographs and prints behind glass if you’re worried about scratches; use thermoplastic for a lighter-weight alternative. Use a lint-free cloth to clean either surface, and be sure to spray cleaning solution on the cloth—not the piece itself. Ultraviolet protection and anti-glare options are available. Also, avoid hanging photographs in direct sunlight or in settings that are very humid. These conditions can cause your artwork to fade or ripple.
Wood
When caring for wood, a primary concern is water damage—no finish is ever completely waterproof. It is also important to protect wood pieces from sudden changes in temperature or humidity, which can cause cracking or warping. Keep wood away from heat sources and the bleaching and drying effects of direct sunlight. In the most humid climates, mold may pose a secondary threat. In this case, regulate indoor humidity and keep objects from direct contact with the floor. To keep wood furnishings and artwork clean, dust regularly with a brush or lint-free cloth. Some objects gain tremendous character over years of contact and use, but if you would like to keep the finish of your wood piece in pristine condition, handle it only with cotton gloves. |
Artwork Care Instructions
