How to care for an oil painting

A well-cared-for oil painting can accompany your family for generations. These are the essential rules.

Where to hang it

• Never in direct sunlight: UV radiation degrades pigments and varnish.
• Away from heat and moisture sources: fireplaces, radiators, kitchens and bathrooms are bad neighbors for art.
• Avoid abrupt temperature changes, which expand and contract the canvas.

How to clean it

1. Use only a soft, dry brush (like a large makeup brush).
2. Sweep lightly, without pressing the impastos.
3. Never use water, alcohol or household cleaners: they dissolve the varnish and can drag paint with them.

Varnish, your ally

Conservation varnish protects the work from dust and humidity, and it is the layer a restorer can renew without touching the paint. If your artwork has gone more than a decade without review, a professional cleaning will bring back its original color.

Check-ups

Look at your artwork once a year under raking light: new cracks, dull areas or a slack canvas are signs to consult a professional. My restoration service offers no-obligation diagnoses.