Conditions of keeping works of art in studios
Ateliers, as places where works of art are created and kept, must provide suitable conditions for taking care of these works. Works of art have great value both physically and materially and from a spiritual and cultural point of view, and utmost care and effort should be used in preserving and caring for them.
The conditions of keeping works of art in the studios are of particular importance because the studios are usually the first home and place of a work of art and the place where artists create. In the rest of the article, we will expand on this issue and deal with the proper maintenance of works of art in studios.
The preservation of works of art in studios requires careful attention and compliance with certain conditions to ensure their preservation and durability. These conditions include the control of environmental factors, physical storage, and specific requirements for different types of artwork.
Ideas for the art studio
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGoHg5fQlus
book introduction
“Environmental Management for Collections: Alternative Conservation Strategies for Hot and Humid Climates” edited by Shin Maekawa and Michael K. Corbett
“Environmental management for collections: alternative conservation strategies for hot and humid climates”.
This book examines appropriate conservation strategies for regions with hot and humid climates, where environmental conditions present unique challenges for the preservation of art and cultural artifacts. The above book provides practical solutions to reduce damage caused by factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and mold growth.
Control of environmental factors in the conditions of keeping works of art in studios
- Temperature: The ideal temperature range for storing artwork is between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 degrees Fahrenheit). High temperatures can cause damage such as cracking or fading in paintings or warping and peeling in paper works.
- Humidity: It is very important to maintain humidity between 40 and 60 percent. Too much humidity can lead to mold growth, while too little humidity can cause the material to dry out and crack.
- Light radiation: direct sunlight causes the artwork to fade and change color. To protect artwork from light damage, store it in a cool, dark room or use UV-blocking curtains and special filters.
- Dust control: Regular dusting is essential to remove dust particles that can scratch or damage surfaces. Use soft, lint-free cloths and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage artwork.
Physical storage in the conditions of storage of works of art in studios
- Support: Use appropriate supports for fragile artwork to prevent damage during handling. For paintings, use stretcher bars or archival-quality mats and backs. For sculptures, use padded bases or supports to avoid scratching or sliding.
- Cleaning: Clean artwork only when necessary using recommended methods for each material. For complex cleaning tasks, be sure to consult art conservation specialists.
- Cargo and transportation: The packaging of artworks and the transportation of artworks must be done with utmost care. Use boxes or custom-made boxes for transporting works of art.
Specific requirements for different types of artwork
Painting
Avoid hanging paintings directly on the walls, as changes in humidity can cause them to bend. Instead, use picture frames or hanging boxes that allow proper air circulation.
statue
Protect sculptures from direct sunlight, moisture, and dust. For outdoor sculptures, use water-resistant coatings or waterproof sealants.
Paper works
Store paper in acid-free containers or archival storage boxes to prevent discoloration and deterioration.
Photography
Store photos in archival folders or albums and protect them from dust and light damage. Avoid bending or folding photos.
Training employees in the maintenance of works of art in workshops
Staff training is one of the most important measures that studios can take to protect their artwork. Atelier staff should be trained in art conservation so that they can properly transport, clean, and maintain artwork. It is important that staff training is ongoing and updated so that staff are aware of the latest information and best practices in art conservation.
Employee training can include the following:
- Familiarity with different art materials and techniques
- Understanding the importance of suitable environmental conditions for the preservation of works of art
- Correct methods of transportation, cleaning, and storage of works of art
- Methods of identifying and preventing possible damage to works of art
Some tips for effective training of workshop employees
- Design training to fit the needs of the studio’s staff and artwork.
- Use a variety of training methods to engage employees and make training more effective.
- Make training practical so employees can practice their skills.
- Update training regularly so employees can use the latest information and best practices available.
The importance of documentation in the preservation of works of art in studios
Documentation plays an important role in the preservation of works of art and can help ensure the proper care of works of art and trace their history.
Ateliers must maintain the following records for their artworks:
- Identification: name of the artwork, artist, date of creation, materials and techniques used
- Provenance: History of ownership of the artwork
- Evaluation: estimation of the financial value of the work of art
- Storage conditions: suitable environmental conditions in which the work of art should be stored
- Conservation repairs: any conservation repairs that have been done to the artwork should be recorded.
This information is helpful in case of damage to the artwork or the need for protective restoration. It can also help value the artwork or insure it.
The role of insurance in the preservation of works of art
Insuring works of art in studios is a protective measure for this valuable capital. Insurance can provide financial assistance for their recovery or restoration in case of damage to works of art.
Ateliers must insure their artworks for full damage coverage, which includes damage caused by:
- Fire
- Water
- Theft
- Physical damage
- Intentional destruction
- Natural factors
It is better to consult with a reputable insurance company to purchase a suitable insurance policy for your works of art.
in the end
Ateliers are places where artists create their works of art, and they can play an important role in the preservation of works of art. By following best practices and implementing preventative measures, ateliers help ensure the preservation and durability of works of art for future generations.
Works of art have significant cultural and financial value. Therefore, it is important to keep them in good condition so that we can enjoy them for years to come and leave an artistic legacy in the community.
More resources to study
To read more, you can refer to the following articles:
Protect Your Artwork: Secure Your Studio & Storage
ART STORAGE FOR PRINTED MATTER AND PAINTINGS
Effective Artwork Storage Solutions for Artists
The Care and Handling of Art Objects: Practices in The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Things to Know for Storing Your Artworks in the Right Way
