How to Transport Art Safely: Tips from Hamilton Art Gallery
Transporting, packaging, framing, hanging and storing art all require some knowledge and expertise. Hamilton Gallery has learnt a few tips along the way, and has gathered a list of consistently reliable service providers that are experienced in the handling of art pieces.
Packaging and Storing Artworks
What we have learnt regarding the packaging and storage of artworks is not to wrap art with the bubbles facing inwards, as the bubbles can cause indentation marks in paint. We don’t like to stack canvases against each other unless there is padding or nothing is digging into/ pressing onto a canvas. If this does occur and there is a small indentation – one can use a damp cloth on the back of the canvas to slightly wet it. Upon drying it should tighten itself into its previous state. If it is notably stretched, it is advisable to take it to a framer for the canvas to be re-stretched.
It is best not to leave artworks wrapped in storage for too long as moisture, mold, or insects could find their way into packaging and cause damage to the paintwork/canvas. When rolling a print, photograph or drawing, first place a piece of acid-free tissue paper on top of the image, roll (not too tightly) with the images facing outwards. Do not keep rolled for too long as it will be difficult to flatten once opened.
Shipping Art Pieces
Shipping can be very costly – sometimes the shipping can cost more than the artwork. A painting that is thickly painted in oils or coated in beeswax, should not be taken off the stretcher and rolled as there is a strong likelihood that it will crack… thinly applied paint can be taken off the frame and rolled for less expensive shipping options. These will be rolled in a poster tube, supplied by the owner of the art, or the shipping company. Larger works or more valuable/fragile pieces are usually crated with protective padding. However, this is the most expensive option. Works can, instead, be ‘packaged but not crated’. This includes slightly less padding and protection yet is an adequate and more affordable option Artworks can be shipped with added insurance for peace of mind.
Framing and Longevity
Framers are qualified and ready to advise clients with regards to how to frame each artwork – what size, color, material frame would work best and fit in a person’s particular interior best. The method of framing used can also contribute to the longevity and care of valuable works. For instance, one can frame with UV protective, non-reflective glass to protect works from sun damage and fading. A framer would use archival materials, acid-free backing tape etc. to make sure fingerprints etc. don’t tarnish papers etc.
Picture Hanging
Picture hanging companies are experts at how and where to hang various artworks, particularly if one wants to hang a wall collage of many works together, or if one has very large and heavy pieces that need reinforced hanging. They can also advise on which works to hang next to or near each other for the best look and feel.
Art Restoration
If any artworks have been damaged, or are extremely old and faded, there are master restorers in Cape Town that can make a work look as close to its original form as possible. These skilled people can remove stains, restore original colours, repair tears, water-damage, and refill missing painted areas, fix peeling paint etc. A work that might seem to be unfixable can be made to look like new.
Recommended Service Providers in Cape Town
Below is a list of the professionals we have used and made contact with during our search for aid with packaging, transport, storing, framing and shipping of artworks.
Packaging
Rebul custom packaging and crating
Transport
Framing
Framed by Anton; The Frame Room; In Touch Framers; Maxwoods; Made by Hand
Shipping/Courier
Jetlog; PostNet; DHL; AboutTurn; Aramex; Airwings; Artvango
Picture Hanging Service
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