Originally published by THE SCOUT GUIDE on February 2nd, 2023
The fine art in your home—whether it’s a piece you’ve made a significant investment in or an inherited cherished work—are some of the most treasured assets you can own. That’s why it’s essential to take good care of your art, to not only maintain its beauty, but to potentially increase its value over time. We asked five scouted fine art professionals to share their essential advice to ensure your art lasts for generations to come. To find a scouted art professional near you, browse The Scout Guide Directory.
Placement is paramount. When hanging art, Kim Kelly, owner of Sophiella Gallery in Mobile, Alabama, notes there are many factors to take into consideration. First and foremost, ensure the art is hung at eye level so anyone viewing it can enjoy the full effect. Next, consider how natural light will work in its favor. For instance, if the piece is behind glass, she recommends noting how the light changes throughout the day and assessing if glare will be an issue. If you’re keen on highlighting the work, Kelly suggests researching special lighting or calling in a professional, with one caveat. “Keep in mind that while concentrated light can really elevate a piece,” she notes. “It also puts a great deal of focus on every small detail, so make sure it’s truly worthy of such attention.”
Curb sun exposure. You’ve noticed it before—faded rugs, bleached furniture, even changes in the color of hardwood flooring—all thanks to sun exposure. That’s why Victoria Kennedy, owner of Kennedy Contemporary in Newport Beach, California, urges art owners to be cognizant of keeping artwork away from windows, doors, and skylights. “Direct, constant sunlight—meaning UV rays—will dilute paint color over time,” she explains. “I always recommend that clients place their art where it will receive the least amount of consistent, direct sunlight.” Have a perpetually sunny house? There’s no reason to panic; most paintings are coated with a varnish that’s designed to protect from UV rays, dust, and yellowing. If sun is unavoidable, Kennedy recommends adding museum glass to protect the face. For extra assurance, and something Kennedy does in her own home, she recommends moving your paintings around periodically to help reduce the amount of consistent sun exposure. Added bonus: this tactic provides a new and exciting perspective for your artwork.
Medium matters. Is your painting acrylic or oil on canvas? A framed print? An encaustic with a floating frame? Knowing the medium of your piece is crucial when it comes to figuring out how to care for it. Here, Kennedy shares her basic care guidelines:
For oil or acrylic paint on canvas. These pieces are typically varnished to protect the paint from dust and temporary periods of sunlight. Keep paintings away from areas where they could get wet and occasionally dust them with a microfiber cloth.
For framed works on paper. Some of the most durable pieces in a home collection, thanks to the frames that protect them, it’s recommended to keep them away from areas of extreme moisture, but they can usually withstand a bathroom or pool room. As you would with windows, clean the glass with a glass cleaning product as needed. However, do not spray directly on the glass. Instead, apply cleaner to a cloth and then wipe.
For encaustic (beeswax and resin surface). These should be buffed every four to six months with a microfiber cloth to maintain the “glow” and remove any dust or fingerprints on the surface.
For bronze sculptures. Most bronze sculptures are protected by a thin layer of wax, however, they will need regular dusting with a microfiber cloth.
