window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'UA-169207398-1', { 'anonymize_ip': true });
Protecting the Art2020-06-01T21:16:32-04:00

Artists use a vast array of media on paper, many of which are known to stand up well to light, air pollution and other environmental threats, whereas others may be fragile and vulnerable. Often media are used in diverse combinations, and sometimes framers cannot be sure of the exact makeup of the materials being framed.

As soon as an artwork is released into the world it faces numerous threats. Some, such as light, especially daylight, and the air itself—its oxygen and the water that it air holds—are basic elements of our environment. Other threats, such as pollutant gases, are largely man-made.Given the inherent and external risks to works of art on paper, the frame must provide a protective envelope in order to, in effect, slow time. The framer must assess the hazards and choose the correct materials and procedures to minimize them. Art materials, the environment’s effect on them, and the preservation function of the frame for works of art on paper are the subjects of these notes.

Learn About Preserving Art

"Horse Panel" in Grotte Chauvet, in southern France
Manet's painting "In the Conservancy"
Making Paper by Hand
Nineteenth Centry Watercolor
Print of Mushrooms with Mold
Pressure Sensitive Tape
Weighing Rice Starch
Six Japanese Papers Used for Hinging
Conservation Frame Cross Section
Bark Frameworks Label on Back of Frame
LED Array
Elsec UV meter

Conservators consider the primary function of framing to be protective.

--Margaret Holben Ellis, The Care of Prints and Drawings

Related Articles

Margaret Holben Ellis on Hinging

“The Most Critical Step in the Entire Framing Process” An excerpt from the interview: "On several occasions, I have encountered multiple sets of pressure-sensitive "archival" tape hinges left over from past reframing campaigns.  I'm ...

Cookies help improve your experience. You may edit or opt-out of cookie settings. View our Privacy Policy. Edit Settings Accept Cookies

Google Analytics Tracking Cookies

Website statistics tracking.

YouTube, Vimeo and Google Maps Cookies

Educational and Promotional Videos and Maps
Go to Top