How To Store Artwork

Have you ever unearthed a forgotten painting from the back of a closet, only to find it covered in dust, warped from humidity, or even nibbled on by pests? The truth is, creating beautiful artwork is only half the battle; preserving it for years to come requires thoughtful storage strategies. Whether you're an artist safeguarding your own creations, a collector cherishing valuable pieces, or simply someone who wants to protect sentimental drawings and paintings, proper storage is crucial to prevent irreversible damage and maintain their aesthetic and monetary worth.

Neglecting artwork storage can lead to fading colors, mold growth, insect infestations, physical damage from impacts or pressure, and other issues that diminish the value and enjoyment of your pieces. Investing a little time and effort in learning the best practices will ensure your treasured artworks remain in excellent condition, ready to be admired and appreciated for generations. Proper storage isn't just about preserving art; it's about preserving memories, investments, and cultural heritage.

What are the most frequently asked questions about storing artwork?

What's the best humidity level for art storage?

The ideal humidity level for art storage is between 45% and 55% relative humidity (RH), with minimal fluctuations. Maintaining this range helps prevent damage caused by excessive dryness or moisture, which can affect the structural integrity and appearance of various art materials.

High humidity encourages mold growth, insect infestation, and warping of organic materials like canvas, paper, and wood. It can also accelerate the corrosion of metals and the deterioration of photographic emulsions. Conversely, low humidity can cause embrittlement, cracking, and flaking of paint layers, as well as shrinking and distortion of wooden supports. Consistent humidity control is paramount for long-term preservation.

Monitoring humidity levels with a reliable hygrometer is crucial. Implementing environmental controls such as humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and climate-controlled storage units can help maintain the desired range. Regular inspection of artwork for signs of damage, such as mold, warping, or cracking, is also recommended. Remember that different types of artwork may have slightly different optimal conditions, so researching the specific needs of your collection is always a good idea.

How do I protect large canvases during storage?

Protecting large canvases during storage requires careful attention to prevent damage from impacts, humidity, dust, and pests. The most effective approach involves wrapping each canvas individually in protective materials like archival paper or bubble wrap, storing them vertically (on their long edge) in a climate-controlled environment, and ensuring they are elevated off the floor to avoid moisture damage.

Large canvases are particularly vulnerable due to their size and weight, which makes them more susceptible to warping or puncture. Avoid storing them flat, as this can cause the canvas to sag over time. Instead, vertical storage distributes weight evenly and minimizes stress on the canvas. Ensure the storage area is free from temperature fluctuations and high humidity, which can lead to mold growth and canvas distortion. Aim for a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity levels, ideally around 65-75°F (18-24°C) and 45-55% relative humidity. When wrapping your canvases, use acid-free materials to prevent chemical reactions that could damage the artwork. Bubble wrap provides excellent physical protection, but remember to use archival paper as a first layer to prevent the bubble wrap from directly contacting the canvas surface. Seal the wrapped canvas with artist's tape, avoiding regular tape which can leave residue. Periodic inspection during long-term storage is advisable. Check for any signs of damage, such as tears, mold, or insect infestations, and take immediate action to mitigate the issue.

Should I store paintings flat or upright?

Generally, storing paintings upright is the preferred method, as it minimizes the risk of pressure-related damage and allows for better airflow around the artwork. Storing flat can be acceptable for certain types of paintings under specific conditions, but it poses a higher risk of damage over time.

Storing paintings upright, much like storing books on a shelf, distributes the weight of the canvas evenly across the bottom edge, preventing warping or distortion that can occur when paintings are stacked flat. When paintings are stacked, even with protective materials between them, the cumulative weight can cause the canvases to sag, stick together (especially if the paint is still slightly tacky), or even damage the paint surface. Storing upright also allows for better air circulation, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, particularly in humid environments. However, if you must store paintings flat (for example, due to space constraints or the size of the artwork), it's crucial to take extra precautions. Ensure the surface is perfectly flat and clean. Place acid-free archival paper or cloth between each painting to prevent them from sticking together or transferring colors. Avoid stacking too many paintings on top of each other to minimize pressure. Regularly inspect the paintings for any signs of damage or deterioration. For very large or heavy canvases, upright storage is almost always the best option to prevent structural issues.

What are acid-free storage materials?

Acid-free storage materials are archival-quality products specifically manufactured to be pH neutral (around 7) and free from acidic compounds that can degrade artwork and documents over time. They are crucial for preserving artwork because acids present in regular paper, cardboard, and other materials can migrate into the artwork, causing yellowing, embrittlement, and eventual disintegration.

Acid-free materials are made using chemically purified wood pulp or cotton linters, ensuring the absence of lignin and sulfur, which are major contributors to acidity. These materials undergo a buffering process, often involving the addition of alkaline substances like calcium carbonate, to neutralize any residual acids and create a protective alkaline reserve. This reserve combats any future acid migration from the environment or the artwork itself. Look for materials labeled "acid-free," "archival quality," or "buffered." The types of acid-free storage materials are diverse, including acid-free paper, folders, boxes, interleaving tissue, and even certain types of plastics like polypropylene and polyethylene. When selecting storage materials, consider the type of artwork you're storing. For example, delicate works on paper benefit from acid-free interleaving tissue placed between each piece. Larger works can be safely stored in acid-free boxes specifically designed for artwork storage, providing both physical protection and a stable, acid-free environment. Ensure that any adhesives used in assembling boxes or folders are also acid-free.

How can I prevent insect damage to stored art?

Preventing insect damage to stored art requires a multi-pronged approach focused on creating an inhospitable environment and regular monitoring. This includes thorough cleaning before storage, using appropriate archival-quality materials, controlling the storage environment's temperature and humidity, and routinely inspecting stored artworks for signs of infestation.

Insects are attracted to organic materials like paper, canvas, wood, and adhesives often used in art. Before storing any artwork, meticulously clean it to remove dust, debris, and food particles that can attract pests. Use a soft brush for delicate surfaces and consider a gentle vacuum with a HEPA filter attachment for more robust materials. Clean the storage area itself to eliminate existing infestations or potential food sources. Wrap artworks individually in archival-quality materials such as acid-free paper, unbleached muslin, or polyethylene sheeting to provide a physical barrier against insects and environmental factors. Avoid using cardboard or acidic materials, as these can attract pests and damage the artwork over time. Maintaining a stable environment is crucial. Ideal storage conditions for most artworks are a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and a relative humidity between 45-55%. High humidity encourages mold growth, which can attract insects, while drastic temperature fluctuations can weaken materials. Monitor the storage area regularly with a hygrometer and thermometer and use dehumidifiers or climate control systems to maintain stable conditions. Regularly inspect stored artworks, ideally every few months, for signs of insect activity such as droppings, webbing, or visible damage. If you suspect an infestation, isolate the affected artwork immediately and consult with a professional conservator or pest control specialist experienced in handling art. Avoid using pesticides directly on artwork, as they can cause irreversible damage. Instead, consider using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that focus on prevention and non-toxic control methods.

What type of lighting is safe for art in storage?

The safest lighting for art in storage is no light at all. Complete darkness eliminates the risk of light damage, which is cumulative and irreversible. If light is necessary, use low-intensity LED lighting with minimal UV and infrared emissions, and for the shortest duration possible.

Art is vulnerable to light damage, particularly from ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. UV light causes fading, yellowing, and degradation of many materials, while IR light generates heat, which can accelerate deterioration. Natural sunlight and traditional fluorescent lights are especially harmful, as they emit significant amounts of both UV and IR. Therefore, these light sources should be strictly avoided in art storage areas. While complete darkness is ideal, sometimes minimal illumination is necessary for inventory, inspection, or access. In these instances, choose LED fixtures specifically designed for museum or archival use. These LEDs emit very little UV and IR radiation, and they are energy-efficient, producing less heat than other types of lighting. Furthermore, consider using motion sensors to activate the lights only when needed, minimizing overall light exposure. Remember, even "safe" lighting contributes to cumulative damage over time, so it is crucial to limit its use as much as possible.

How often should I check on stored artwork?

Ideally, you should inspect stored artwork at least every 3 to 6 months. Regular checks allow you to identify and address any potential issues like pest infestations, humidity fluctuations, or physical damage before they escalate into serious problems that could compromise the artwork's condition and value.

Consistent monitoring is crucial because the environment within a storage space can change subtly over time. Temperature and humidity levels may fluctuate with the seasons, creating conditions that encourage mold growth or insect activity. Even if your initial storage setup seemed ideal, unexpected leaks, power outages affecting climate control, or nearby construction could introduce new risks. Early detection gives you the best chance to mitigate damage and preserve the artwork. The frequency of your checks can also depend on the inherent fragility of the artwork and the stability of the storage environment. For example, delicate works on paper or textiles, or artwork stored in areas prone to temperature swings, might warrant more frequent inspection—perhaps quarterly. Conversely, more robust pieces in climate-controlled, secure storage might be checked bi-annually. During each inspection, carefully examine the artwork for signs of damage: Record your observations and any corrective actions taken to maintain a comprehensive history of the artwork's condition.

And that's a wrap! Thanks so much for taking the time to learn about storing your artwork. We hope these tips help you keep your precious pieces safe and sound for years to come. Be sure to check back soon for more art-related advice and inspiration!