Building an art collection is a personal and enriching experience, but ensuring that your pieces are properly stored and displayed is key to maintaining their value and beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, finding the right balance between showcasing your favorite works and preserving them for future generations can be challenging. With proper care, however, your art can be admired by all while staying protected for years to come.
The first consideration when storing art is understanding the environment it will be kept in. Art is highly sensitive to external factors such as temperature, humidity, and light. Ideally, artworks should be stored in a climate-controlled room where the temperature remains stable, between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the relative humidity is kept around 40 to 50 percent. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause significant damage, from warping to cracking, especially in mediums like oil paint or wood. Moisture, in particular, is a key factor in the deterioration of art, as it can lead to mold growth or cause delicate materials like paper or canvas to weaken over time.
Another important aspect of art storage is ensuring the pieces are protected from light exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) light, which is present in both natural sunlight and artificial lighting, can cause colors to fade and materials to deteriorate. While direct sunlight is particularly damaging, even prolonged exposure to standard indoor lighting can be harmful. The best way to protect your artwork is by storing it in a dark place, such as in archival storage boxes or in a room with blackout curtains. Additionally, if the pieces are on display, consider using UV-filtering glass or acrylic to shield the art from harmful light while still allowing it to be appreciated.
When it comes to physically storing art, special care should be taken to ensure that the pieces are not damaged in the process. Paintings and framed artwork should be stored vertically, much like books on a shelf, with acid-free padding or dividers between each piece to prevent them from touching. Never stack artworks directly on top of each other, as this can lead to pressure points and damage over time. Sculptures, on the other hand, should be carefully wrapped in acid-free materials and placed in sturdy containers to prevent movement and breakage. For pieces made of more fragile materials, custom crates or cases can provide additional protection.
Displaying art is just as much an art form as creating or collecting it. The way pieces are arranged and exhibited can drastically alter the atmosphere of a room and the viewer’s interaction with each piece. One of the most fundamental principles of art display is placement. The height at which you hang your artwork can affect how it is perceived; generally, artwork should be hung at eye level, which is considered around 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the artwork. This allows the viewer to engage with the art in a natural and comfortable way. For larger rooms or spaces with high ceilings, consider hanging multiple pieces vertically in a salon-style arrangement, creating a layered effect that draws the eye upward.
Lighting plays an equally important role in displaying art. While it is crucial to avoid excessive exposure to damaging UV light, using controlled and thoughtful lighting can dramatically enhance the presentation of your collection. Use spotlights or directional lighting to highlight specific pieces and create focal points within the room. Dimmable LED lights are a good option, as they do not emit UV radiation and can be adjusted to create the perfect ambiance without risking damage to the artwork. Avoid harsh overhead lighting that can cast unflattering shadows or glare on your pieces.
Another element to consider is the framing of your artwork. The right frame not only protects the piece but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. Choose frames that complement the style of the artwork without overwhelming it. If you have a diverse collection of modern, traditional, and abstract works, you might opt for simple, neutral frames that unify the collection. Alternatively, for a more eclectic look, mix and match frames of different styles and materials to create a dynamic and personalized display.
Finally, ensure that your art collection is not just a static display, but one that evolves and adapts. Rotate your pieces periodically to give each work its moment in the spotlight while protecting the others from continuous exposure. This not only prevents any single piece from fading or degrading over time, but it also allows you to continually refresh your space and experience your collection in new ways.
In conclusion, caring for your art collection requires a thoughtful approach to both storage and display. By controlling the environment, protecting your pieces from damaging elements, and curating how they are exhibited, you can ensure your collection remains vibrant and engaging for years to come. Investing time and care into proper storage and display will allow you to not only preserve your art but to enjoy it to its fullest potential.