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Care and Lighting of Paintings

by

William Russell. Walker

You will find that very little is needed to maintain paintings produced on properly prepared surfaces. It is because of the preparation taken in the crafting of fine paintings that these works have developed certain strengths ensuring their longevity. There are however, certain precautions that should be taken to prevent unnecessary and sometimes irreversible damage. The two most prevalent causes of damage are sunlight and excessive variances in humidity. Exposure to these conditions can result in premature cracking and fading or discoloration of the painting. The painting(s) that you now own have been varnished to help prevent the buildup of various air-born debris such as dirt and smoke from settling on the actual surface paint. This varnish however is not a barrier against the damaging ultraviolet rays common in sunlight or severe variances in humidity.

By avoiding direct sunlight and using preferred methods of lighting, artwork will, in almost all cases, be seen as it was intended. I recommend the use of halogen lighting for the illumination of my work.  Halogen lights are most commonly used within track lighting. If the space in which the work is displayed does not lend itself to types of track lighting commonly secured to the ceiling in the form of metal track, then ask a lighting professional to discuss optional low powered lines that can run throughout a room. These low-powered lines offer the same exceptional lighting as other forms of track and at the same time allow for greater freedom in light placement throughout a room.  When installing your lighting, remember that illumination should be directed from a few feet above and slightly back from the work. By lighting your work in the best possible manner you will reduce unwanted glare and present your works at their best.

You may find, after time passes, some accumulation of dust on the surface of the works. I would recommend that an occasional very light dusting be done to these, using a very soft cotton cloth, free of any cleansers and moisture. 

Try to remember never to touch any surface of artwork with unprotected hands. Oils common to skin are damaging to most surfaces.

If you have any questions concerning information in this package or any questions about the work that you have purchased, please feel free to call us.

There are few creations that can pass from one generation to another, transcend various beliefs and backgrounds and manage to grow in beauty and importance.  It is fascinating that works such as these have an everlasting relevance. How fortunate we are that works such as these exist for us today.

The works that I have created I have done so to age with grace common among great works from decades and centuries ago.  So it is with you that their time begins.

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