Everything You Need to Know about Artwork and Sunlight
July 15th, 2023
Just like your skin, repeated exposure to sunlight—even if it’s only for a short time each day—will eventually cause visible change to artwork. Unlike your skin, artwork doesn’t heal! In light of this reality (pun intended), here are some tips on how to protect your art without keeping your shades drawn all day!
Bright As Day by Johne Richardson
Hang your artwork in areas without direct sunlight.Damage from Ultraviolet (UV) rays is irreversible. Rotate your artwork on occasion to minimize exposure.
Use Halogen or LED lights where artwork is displayed. UV rays aren't just present in sunlight. Fluorescent lighting also gives off high amounts of UV rays!
Know how different mediums react to UV exposure. Some mediums, like oil, pastel, and charcoal, are more resistant to fading, but light and heat can still damage them over time. Some mediums, like watercolors, lithographs, and photographs, are especially sensitive to UV rays.
Frame your artwork with UV-filtering glazing. We are always happy to assist anyone in making an informed decision about their framing choices! You can learn more about the different types of glazing we use here or you can contact us through the form below!
Have questions about how to frame or where to hang your artwork?
