You’ve carefully curated artwork that breathes life, beauty, and personal expression into your living spaces. From vibrant paintings, delicate sculptures, to cherished photographs, each piece adds depth and character.
But as time passes, even the most vibrant brushstrokes and intricate details can become vulnerable to the trials of life. As art enthusiasts, it’s important to take care to invest not only in the aesthetic appeal of these pieces but also in their longevity. With the right maintenance, you can enjoy your pieces for many years to come.
Your property inspiration
Located right by the Nahoon River and Nahoon Mouth, this five-bedroom home in Bonnie Doon will delight the artistic spirit in you. Each day offers up a sensory journey of serene surroundings, soothing river sounds, and awe-inspiring views.
The owners of the home are clearly art lovers; as you enter the living room, your eyes are immediately drawn to an extraordinary collection of carefully curated art. A captivating painting captures the joyous moments of a family feeding ducks by the river, while a striking portrait of a male figure surveys the room with an enigmatic gaze. And just beyond, a vibrant and mysterious abstract masterpiece invites contemplation and intrigue.
Every piece of art has been thoughtfully framed with thick glass. Meticulously hung, they are positioned away from direct sunlight, protecting their delicate pigments and intricate details. Moisture is but a distant concern, as every precaution has been taken to shield these artistic treasures from harm.
Preserve the beauty of your art pieces
Wether you’re displaying an inexpensive flea market find or an auction house investment, your art plays a strong role in your home’s aesthetic. With these tips, you can ensure they remain in good shape:
- Choose a good location: Artwork should be hung or displayed away from high-traffic areas where a casual bump or careless hands could damage them. Also, keep them away from direct sunlight (which can fade or damage them) and places where people smoke. Delicate art should ideally be kept away from moisture or damp-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms but you can instead opt to display hardy metal or ceramic sculptures or sealed photographs and prints.
- Hang with care: Skip flimsy wires or double-sided adhesive hooks that can have your painting falling at a moment’s notice. Instead, opt for screws and bolts that will keep paintings and wall hangings firmly on the wall or sculptures and standing vases firmly grounded. For paintings and photographs, choose conservation-grade glass to protect it from dust, moisture, and UV rays.
- Give it a spotlight: If your room doesn’t have enough natural light, use ceiling-mounted lights that cast a glow rather than wash out the features. LED bulbs are the best option as they are energy efficient and don’t put your artwork at risk for UV damage.
- Clean on a regular basis: Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft painter’s brush to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. Any cleaning should be done with gloves to prevent fingerprint damage or lifting off pigments. You’ll also want to keep harsh chemicals away for this as they can be abrasive and potentially damage or change the colour of your painting.
- Call in pest control: Insects such as woodworms, silverfish, and termites can wreak havoc on your paper-based artwork. Even mice and rats are known to nibble on paintings or gnaw on wooden picture frames. If you’re having a serious issue, you should call in an exterminator who can help you keep your artistic treasures safe.
- Control humidity and temperature: Art is susceptible to humidity and changes in temperature, peeling, warping, or creating mould over time. Aim to place your pieces in cool and dry areas, while using a dehumidifier and air conditioning during the warmer months.
- Get an expert examination: For valuable artwork, it makes good sense to have an expert inspect them for signs of damage, such as cracks, discolouration, or warping. Often, these go unnoticed by the untrained eye and can prevent serious, irreparable damage to your pieces.
- Invest in professional conservation: Rather than have another situation like the famously ruined Spanish fresco of Jesus Christ (Ecce Homo), you should put your most prized pieces in the hands of a professional art conservator who can provide specialised care, cleaning, and restoration services.
- Rotate your artwork: Besides refreshing the look and feel of your rooms, swapping out art gives your pieces a break from overexposure to the elements. It’s also an opportunity to check that stored items are still in good condition.
Your home should inspire you
And art plays an important role in adding charm and beauty to your living spaces. Treat it with the care it deserves, and it will continue to grace your home with its unique expression and appeal. At Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, we take pride in curating homes with practical as well as aesthetic appeal. Browse our portfolio of exquisite properties for sale and get in touch with our team now.
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