Preserving watercolor paintings involves protecting them from environmental damage and handling them with care. Here's a breakdown of how to keep your water paintings in excellent condition:
Key Preservation Strategies
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Control Environmental Factors:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures and Humidity: Watercolor paintings are highly susceptible to damage from excessive heat and humidity. Aim for a stable environment with moderate temperature and humidity levels. High humidity can damage both the paint and the paper.
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Framing for Protection:
- Use Acid-Free Materials: When framing, always use acid-free mats and backing boards. Acidic materials can leach into the paper over time, causing discoloration and degradation.
- Glazing: Framing watercolors behind glass or acrylic (Plexiglas) is crucial. This protects the painting from dust, pollutants, and physical damage.
- UV Protection: Opt for UV-protective glazing to shield the watercolor from fading caused by ultraviolet light. Standard glass offers some UV protection, but specialized UV-filtering glass or acrylic provides a higher level of defense.
- Matting: Use a mat to create space between the painting and the glazing. This prevents the paint from sticking to the glass or acrylic, especially in humid conditions.
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Proper Storage Techniques:
- Flat Storage: If you're not framing the watercolor, store it flat in an acid-free portfolio or archival box.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Whether framed or unframed, never store or display watercolors in direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight will cause the colors to fade.
- Dark, Cool, and Dry Place: Choose a storage location that is dark, cool, and dry to minimize environmental damage.
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Careful Handling:
- Clean Hands: Always wash your hands before handling watercolor paintings to avoid transferring oils or dirt.
- Lift Carefully: When moving a painting, support it from underneath. Avoid touching the painted surface.
- Avoid Folding or Rolling: Never fold or roll watercolor paintings, as this can crack the paint and damage the paper.
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Monitor and Maintain:
- Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your watercolor paintings for signs of damage, such as fading, discoloration, or mold growth.
- Professional Conservation: If you notice significant damage, consult a professional art conservator for advice and treatment.
