To store portraits long-term effectively, the primary focus should be on controlling the storage environment and providing adequate physical protection for the artwork.
Key Factors for Long-Term Portrait Storage
Proper long-term storage is crucial for preserving the condition and value of portraits, protecting them from damage over time.
Environmental Control
Maintaining a stable and controlled environment is perhaps the single most important aspect of long-term art storage. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity, as well as exposure to harmful elements, can severely damage delicate materials like canvas, paper, paint, and pigments.
- Avoid UV Light: Keep your artworks stored out of any UV light. Direct sunlight and even some artificial lights emit UV rays that cause pigments to fade and materials to deteriorate irreversibly. Store portraits in darkness or in areas with filtered lighting.
- Regulate Temperature: Avoid extreme heat or cold, and especially avoid rapid temperature changes. Fluctuations can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to cracking and other structural damage. A stable temperature, ideally between 68-72°F (20-22°C), is recommended.
- Control Humidity: Keep your artworks stored away from any heat or dampness. High humidity encourages mold growth, mildew, and insect activity, while low humidity can cause materials to become brittle. A stable relative humidity of 40-50% is generally considered ideal for most artwork.
- Avoid Certain Appliances: Appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers, should not be stored near paintings, as they will have standing water that can create moisture. Avoid storing portraits near any source of moisture, heat, or vibration.
Physical Protection
Beyond environmental factors, physical protection is essential to prevent damage from handling, dust, pests, and physical impact.
- Proper Packaging:
- Use archival-quality materials like acid-free tissue paper, glassine, or Mylar to wrap the portrait.
- For unframed canvases, use breathable, acid-free wrapping materials and potentially corner protectors.
- Framed portraits should be carefully padded, especially around corners and glass.
- Framing and Glazing: If framed, ensure the frame is sturdy and the hanging hardware is secure. Consider using UV-filtering glass or acrylic to protect the artwork from light damage while displayed or stored.
- Storage Containers: Store packaged portraits in sturdy, acid-free boxes or crates designed for artwork. Ensure they are not packed too tightly.
Choosing the Right Location
The location where you store the portraits significantly impacts their long-term preservation.
- Ideal Locations: A climate-controlled storage unit specifically designed for art, a dedicated room in your home with stable conditions, or a professional art storage facility are ideal. These locations minimize exposure to environmental risks.
- Locations to Avoid: Basements (prone to dampness and flooding), attics (prone to extreme temperature fluctuations), garages (unstable conditions, pests), and storage units without climate control should generally be avoided for valuable or sentimental portraits.
Practical Tips for Storing Portraits
Here are some actionable steps for storing your portraits long-term:
- Clean Gently: Before storing, gently clean the frame and back of the portrait with a soft brush. Do not attempt to clean the artwork itself unless you are a trained conservator.
- Document: Take photos and note details about the portrait's condition before storing.
- Wrap Securely: Use archival, breathable materials as described above.
- Store Vertically: Store framed or stretched canvases vertically rather than stacking them horizontally, which can cause pressure damage. Use padding between portraits if they must be close together.
- Elevate: Do not store portraits directly on the floor. Use pallets or shelving to protect against potential minor flooding or pests.
- Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the stored portraits for any signs of damage, mold, pests, or changes in condition.
Summary: Do's and Don'ts for Portrait Storage
Storing portraits correctly requires attention to detail and avoiding common pitfalls.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Store in a stable, climate-controlled area | Store in attics, basements, or garages |
| Keep away from UV light, heat, and dampness | Expose to direct sunlight or fluctuating temperatures/humidity |
| Use archival-quality packaging materials | Use acidic materials like newspaper or regular cardboard |
| Store vertically (framed/canvas) | Stack portraits horizontally |
| Elevate off the floor | Place directly on the floor |
| Monitor the storage environment | Store near appliances like refrigerators or sources of vibration/moisture |
| Use UV-filtering glass/acrylic on frames | Use standard glass that doesn't filter UV rays |
By following these guidelines and ensuring your portraits are stored in a stable, protected environment away from harmful elements and appliances, you can significantly increase their longevity.
