Storing artwork requires specific conditions to ensure that your piece does not withstand any damage while it is on a break from display.
At Art Work FAS, we provide a complete range of art storage solutions to keep your artwork safe and secure while you are apart. We have approximately 20,000 square feet of space to accommodate your small paintings, large sculptures, or entire museum collections.
We wanted to share a few insights on factors we carefully consider for fine art storage and how you can prep your pieces for successful storage.
If you have any questions, contact Art Work FAS by clicking here.
Prep Your Artwork For Storage
Before you store your artwork, it is a good idea to make sure it is in optimal shape. First, make sure to use gloves to handle your artwork as you are preparing it for storage. Our skin and fingers contain oils that can interfere with the chemicals in the piece, especially in a painting. Pro tip: cotton or powder-free latex gloves work best! Second, if you are storing a painting, make sure everything is completely dry. For some oils and paints, this can take as long as a year. Finally, take a microfiber cloth or soft makeup brush to gently wipe away and clean any dust or dirt.
Handle and Pack Your Artwork With Care
It’s important to properly handle artwork before it goes into storage so that it is returned in the same condition. For Art Work FAS, this means taking our time and getting to know you and your piece to see what options will work best. We also provide archival wrapping and packing products to ensure artworks are preserved to museum standards.
Climate Control Your Space
Climate control is one of the most important factors when it comes to storing your piece. Fluctuating temperatures can be detrimental, especially to paintings, and may cause them to expand or shrink. Our storage spaces are set to 68 degrees Fahrenheit with twenty-four-hour monitoring to ensure that all pieces stay at optimal temperature.
Maintain Proper Humidity
Maintaining humidity is a delicate balance. Severe climates and damp air can cause warping, yellowing, and mold growth. At Art Work FAS, our storage humidity control is set to 55% relative humidity. Our team monitors and adjusts around the clock to keep your fine art comfortable and out of harm’s way.
Keep the Light Out
If you are storing a painting, you may want to consider how light plays a role. Light is a big culprit for fading, yellowing, and dryness, especially for those pieces that do not spend a lot of time near it. By keeping your artwork wrapped and in a dark space, you can help ensure that the quality of your piece does not deteriorate. At our warehouses, we have timed lighting so your artwork remains in the dark unless occupied.
Specialized Knowledge From Our Experts
Our state-of-the-art storage facilities provide you with a secure location for your artwork away from the elements.
For nearly 30 years, Art Work Fine Art Services has served as the trusted logistics partner to some of America’s most highly-regarded museums, galleries, collectors, and artists. We specialize in expert and custom solutions for domestic and international shipping, warehousing, and preservation of artwork.
Our team is made up of passionate experts in many mediums, including design, painting, printmaking, carpentry, photography, and sculpture. Art Work FAS offers services in Portland and Seattle, in addition to California’s Bay Area and Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, New York City, and across the Rocky Mountains.
To request an estimate or find out more about the services Art Work Fine Art Services offers, contact us.