Storage of paintings

treecreeper · #1 (**permalink**) 22-12-2009, 03:34 PM

This is a question on behalf of an artistic friend...hope that's OK. She needs to store her paintings for up to 8 months prior to exhibition and she would appreciate advice on this. She has been wrapping them in clingfilm or bubble wrap and putting them in the loft, but she is concerned damp or mould might get to them. I was thinking those little packets of dessicant that come with electrical equipment might help. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks
TC

davecatt · #2 (**permalink**) 22-12-2009, 03:52 PM

This link should answer your friends question, written by a dealer in paintings

http://images.radcity.net/6047/1250178.pdf

Good Luck
Dave

treecreeper · #3 (**permalink**) 22-12-2009, 04:45 PM

Thanks Dave, this is very helpful. Silicone Release Paper and Glassine Paper are new to me.

acherontia · #4 (**permalink**) 23-02-2010, 06:51 PM

I presume the paintings are oils as a varnish finish is mentioned in the link?Water colours/gouache/acrylic may be different? The attic isn't the best environment.

Acher

jaik66 · #5 (**permalink**) 16-04-2010, 08:59 AM

Hi
Paintings need to cure after they're finished, so oils need air circulation around them during that time. Acrylics dry by the water evaporating, and the polymer must harden. Oils take anywhere from 6-12 months to cure, acrylics just a couple days or week depending on how thick they are. You can use a retouch varnish on oils prior to final varnishing. There are some final varnishes that can be safely used on both oils and acrylics. Varnishing is not an absolute necessity, but better in the long run.....

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thomas sabo charm

treecreeper · #6 (**permalink**) 16-04-2010, 02:46 PM

Thanks for this Jaik, I don't know if the paintings are oil but I'll pass the info on. And very belated thanks Acher, sorry I didn't spot your post when you made it.