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A common phenomenon for artists and collectors is to pour their hearts into stunning acrylic paintings, but which eventually end up fading, cracking or warping when improperly stored and exposed to elements. Acrylics are known to be versatile and fast-drying, but their ability to last long enough depends on how well-preserved they are.
In this guide, we break down exactly how to protect acrylic painting, including materials that may be used as well as long-term strategies. With neon signs becoming all too popular around these paintings, we also seek to answer whether a neon sign is safe around paintings.
Acrylics Unveiled: A Guide to Painting Materials
Acrylic paint has endeared artists for all the right reasons; it doesn’t just feature bold and vibrant colors but is remarkably flexible in terms of the range of artwork it can produce. It is essentially composed of a pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion, which helps dry it fast and makes it water-resistant once cured. It has a nature closer to plastic, which is what makes it so durable, but that can be problematic if the conditions aren't right.
Acrylics are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, unlike oil paintings. In intense heat, the paint may melt while cold could cause it to become brittle.
The fact that they dry up so quickly and can be layered precisely has made them a top favorite for those pursuing art as a hobby or profession.
Ideal Storage Conditions for Acrylic Paintings
An acrylic painting should be treated as a living piece that desires comfort more than anything. If you are wondering how to create a sanctuary for your acrylic artworks, then the trick lies in controlling the elements to begin with.
1. Temperature Control
Acrylics do best in the temperature range between 65°F and 75°F. Temperatures higher or lower than this can cause paint to soften or warp, or lead to cracks. Avoid hanging paintings near radiators, heating vents or air conditioning units to avoid temperature changes.
2. Humidity Matters
Humidity levels should ideally be between 40% and 60%, not higher or lower. Under high humidity, mould can grow, while low humidity may cause the canvas to shrink and the paint film to crack. You may find a dehumidifier or humidifier useful, especially if your space is prone to seasonal shifts.
3. Light Exposure
Yes, your artwork is worth the limelight – but not sunlight directly. Ultraviolet (UV) light can fade away colors and degrade the outer surfaces. If you prefer to showcase your work in a sunlit area, use UV-filtering glass or acrylic.
4. Placement
Ensure that the paintings are stored in an upright position and not stacked directly over one another. The paintings should stand on their strongest edges, and the racks should be sufficiently sturdy so that they don’t lean on each other.
5. Cleanliness and Air Quality
Acrylic paint has a textured surface, which allows dust and pollutants in the air to settle. It’s important to keep the environment clean and avoid exposing your paintings to cooking fumes, cigarette smoke, or industrial chemicals.
6. Protection from Physical Damage & Contaminants
The acrylic paintings must be fully dry and cured before you store them, as the more tacky a surface, the greater the chances that contaminants will stick to it. Depending on how thick the paint is and the environmental conditions, this may take days or even weeks. Once cured, apply a layer of an isolation coat and varnish as it acts as a shield of protection.
Eager to set up your gallery wall or room décor? Check out some aesthetic inspiration from Lamomo Neon to beautify your space with custom neon signs. Neon lights can add that extra flair to your painting, making it stand out, but more on that below.
Safeguarding Acrylic Art: Threats to Acrylic Artworks
Acrylic paintings can be durable, but at the same time, a wide range of threats can deprive them of their charm. Let’s dive into who the usual suspects are.
1. Temperature Swings
We have talked about this before, but it cannot be overemphasized enough. Abrupt shifts in temperature can open up your painting to unwanted effects like cracking, bubbling, or warping of the paint film and canvas. The risk is greater in older buildings or storage units where climate control is difficult to achieve.
2. Moisture and Mold
If your painting is stored in or around a damp area, as found in basements or attics, that provides perfect conditions for mold to grow on both the canvas and the frame. This not only ruins the overall look but also hampers the integrity of the work.
3. Light and UV Damage
Exposure to direct or prolonged sunlight can cause your painting to lose color, making it dull and lifeless. Even high-intensity indoor lighting can prove highly damaging over time unless it's designed to be art-friendly.
4. Dust, Pollutants, and Physical Contact
If your painting is around open windows, smoke and dust can settle on the surface and become embedded. Rubbing or wiping too harshly will only worsen it, leaving scratches on the surface. Likewise, placing heavy objects on the painting or stacking it improperly can result in pressure points or indentations.
5. Neglect
Sometimes, being negligent about your painting can be the biggest threat. Failing to dust regularly or mishandling the painting in transit can lead to scratches, scuffs, and dents.
Remember that prevention is always better than restoration and can spare you much hassle and lost money. When you know what to avoid, you have won half the battle in keeping your artwork pristine.
The Art of Preservation: Protecting Your Acrylic Masterpieces
Once you have picked the right spot for storing your painting, the second most important thing is to have a long-term approach to how you deal with it. Since Acrylic works can last decades – or even centuries- it all comes down to taking the required measures to preserve them.
1. Varnishing for Protection
A layer of varnish doesn't just unify the surface sheen but also effectively fends off against various external agents like UV light, dust, and minor abrasions caused by physical wear or tear. Go for a removable varnish that is acrylic compatible so that future conservators can update or replace it as needed.
2. Regular Inspection
You never know when signs of damage may appear, so keep an eye on your painting at regular intervals. Watch out for signs of fading, cracking, or mold. By detecting damage early, you can avoid its repercussions for your painting.
3. Proper Framing
A frame constructed from archival-quality materials and UV-protective acrylic or glass can go a long way in preserving the aesthetics of your artwork as well as enhancing protection against environmental stress. Use only acid-free materials like papers, mat boards or other boxes when it comes to wrapping or archiving your materials.
4. Darkness
As emphasized above, direct and even indirect sunlight and UV radiation from fluorescent lights can result in yellowing and ageing of your painting. Therefore, find a dark place to prevent your artwork from getting obscured.
5. Individual Wrapping
Each painting should be individually wrapped for maximum protection. A glassine paper has a smooth and abrasive texture and is placed directly over the painted surface so that it does not come into contact with packaging materials. Stay away from wax paper. On top of glassine, you can add a layer of acid-free paper, followed by bubble paper or foam board for cushioning.
4. Climate-Controlled Storage for Collections
For owners of multiple acrylic pieces or those part of rotating exhibitions, a climate-controlled storage unit works best. This would allow you to store each of your paintings individually
5. Digital Documentation
Take high-resolution photos of your artworks. If your painting ever requires restoration, original images will allow conservators to replicate the artist’s vision.
Remember, the goal is to create an environment that helps maintain your acrylic painting’s appearance and integrity over time.
Are Neon Signs Safe Around Paintings?
As neon signs become more relevant than ever, this has emerged as one of the oft-asked questions in creative communities. The short answer is yes, provided you take the necessary precautions.
Traditional neon gas tubes emit substantial heat, whereas modern LED-based options like those from Lamomo Neon don’t get that hot. That means they can be placed close to artworks without any significant danger as long as you follow these safe practices.
Keep a Safe Distance
A neon sign for room should be at least 12 inches away from the painting.
Avoid Direct Light Exposure
Direct light shouldn’t be shown on the artwork, including colored LED. if you do intend to use lighting, place it at an indirect angle, or it could be reflected off another surface.
Limit the Heat
Although LED neon signs have an overall cool effect, they can nevertheless exude warmth, especially when used in extensive displays. You can use a thermometer to monitor ambient temperatures if needed.
Plenty of reviews on Reddit’s Artist Lounge indicate that using an LED neon sign poses minimal risk, especially when installed with care. By adding Neon lights to your room, you can confer a dynamic, Instagram-ready glow to any room, without compromising your artwork.
So what are you waiting for? Design your art space with confidence and style by opting for Custom Neon Signs from Lamomo Neon.
