Maya Ellison
When it comes to storing art, there are several factors to consider to ensure its preservation and protection. The right approach can save time, money, and the frustration of dealing with wasted or ruined artwork. This includes choosing the appropriate storage locations and containers, as well as understanding the specific needs of the art medium. While plastic containers are convenient and readily available, not all plastics are suitable for long-term art preservation. Some plastics contain additives that can react with oxygen and light, producing harmful compounds that damage certain art materials. However, stable plastic materials that do not off-gas can be ideal for safely housing art collections. This article will explore the considerations for using plastic containers for archival art storage and provide guidance on alternative options for effective art preservation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic containers for art storage | Should be made of stable plastic materials that do not off-gas; bags, containers, boxes, and sheeting made of appropriate types of plastics have applications in museums, galleries, libraries, and archives; polyester is a brand of polyester that meets the requirements of long-term storage of photographic materials; untreated polypropylene is an acceptable low-cost alternative to polyester; plastic enclosures can prevent the byproducts of decomposition from escaping and cause these films to deteriorate more rapidly |
| Other art storage recommendations | Store in a dark, dry place with a non-fluctuating temperature; avoid humidity, dust, dirt, drastic temperature changes, and mould; use acid-free materials; avoid touching the artwork and use cotton gloves when handling it; avoid storing artwork in plastic or cellophane sleeves as they might trap condensation and ruin artwork |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic containers can be used to store art, but not all plastics are suitable
- Archival-quality containers are recommended to prevent deterioration
- Polyester is a suitable plastic for storing photographic materials
- Untreated polypropylene is a low-cost alternative to polyester
- Art should be protected from humidity, dust, dirt, mould, and temperature changes
Plastic containers can be used to store art, but not all plastics are suitable
Archival-quality containers are essential for preventing the deterioration of delicate artworks. Plastic enclosures can be beneficial by preventing the escape of decomposition byproducts, which can accelerate the deterioration of certain materials, such as cellulose nitrate and cellulose acetate. In such cases, cold storage with controlled humidity is recommended to retard further deterioration. Additionally, plastic enclosures can provide rigidity and support for fragile prints or thin paper. Untreated polypropylene is a low-cost alternative to polyester, offering clarity and flexibility for photographic materials that do not require the same level of support as polyester.
When storing art, it is important to consider the environment. A dark, dry space with a stable temperature is ideal. Humidity control is crucial to prevent mould and deterioration. Plastic containers can help protect against humidity and mould, especially when coupled with other preservation methods such as tissue paper or towels. However, it is important to avoid trapping condensation, which can occur with plastic sleeves and cellophane bags. Therefore, these should only be used for short-term storage or display purposes.
The choice of storage materials should also consider the specific type of art being stored. For example, fabrics and textiles have unique storage requirements, such as pest control and light protection. Acid-free tissue paper and acid-free or PH-neutral materials are recommended to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time. Additionally, certain adhesives, such as Polyvinyl Acetate emulsion (PVA) and Urea Formaldehyde, should be avoided as they can give off acetic acid, which can damage various materials, especially metals.
Overall, while plastic containers can be used to store art, it is important to select the appropriate type of plastic and consider the specific needs of the artwork. Recognised suppliers of archival materials can provide guidance on selecting the most suitable options. By understanding the unique requirements of different art forms and the characteristics of various storage materials, one can effectively preserve and protect their artistic creations or collections.
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Archival-quality containers are recommended to prevent deterioration
Proper storage is essential to protect artwork and maintain an organised, efficient workspace. Delicate art should be stored in archival-quality containers to prevent deterioration. Archival-quality containers are made from chemically stable and durable materials that will protect the artwork from damage.
When selecting materials for storing art, it is important to consider the specific needs of the medium. For example, heavier items like sculptures or canvases may require padding or careful placement, while delicate artworks require additional protection. Archival-quality containers are ideal for the latter, as they are designed to meet the unique preservation needs of various artworks.
Not all plastics are suitable for storing art. Some plastics contain additives that react with oxygen and light, producing harmful chemical compounds that can damage certain materials, especially photographic materials. Therefore, it is crucial to purchase enclosures from a recognised supplier of archival materials. Untreated polypropylene is a low-cost alternative to polyester enclosures, providing clear protection for photographs that do not require the additional support of polyester.
To ensure the longevity and value of artwork, it is recommended to use acid-free materials. Acid causes yellowing and deterioration over time, especially when exposed to heat and sunlight. Acid-free tissue paper, for instance, can be used to wrap artwork completely or interleave the material between artworks stored in the same folder. Glassine is another suitable material, particularly effective for separating pastels and other porous media as it won't smudge the surface.
Additionally, when storing artwork, it is important to consider the storage environment. The space should be dark, dry, and well-ventilated, with a non-fluctuating temperature. Dehumidifiers may be necessary to maintain optimal humidity levels. By following these recommendations, artwork can be effectively preserved and protected from deterioration.
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Polyester is a suitable plastic for storing photographic materials
When storing art, it is important to consider the specific needs of the medium. For instance, heavier items like sculptures may require padding, while delicate art should be stored in archival-quality containers to prevent deterioration. Archival-quality containers are those that are acid-free and lignin-free.
Photographic materials such as slides, prints, and negatives are susceptible to damage from plasticizers used in PVC. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid the use of plastics containing PVC, cellulose nitrate, cellulose acetate, and polyurethanes.
Polyester encapsulation involves enclosing a photograph between two sheets of polyester, sealed on all four sides using a heat or ultrasonic welder. This method provides additional protection by completely enclosing the photograph.
Other plastics that are considered archivally safe for preservation include polypropylene and polyethylene. These plastics are also used for storing photographs and are similar to polyester in terms of clarity. They offer alternatives for those seeking different options or specific characteristics that may suit their collection's needs.
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Untreated polypropylene is a low-cost alternative to polyester
While plastic containers can be used to store art, not all plastics are suitable for this purpose. Stable plastic materials that do not off-gas are ideal for safely housing art. For instance, plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) should be avoided as the plasticizers used in them can affect photographic materials.
Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fibre made from repeating units of polyethylene glycol. It is a dominant material in fabric and yarn treatment, known for its high tenacity and strength, as well as its resistance to creep and the majority of chemicals. Polyester is also capable of drying quickly and is easier to care for and launder. It is also noted for its higher melting point.
In the context of rugs, polyester is the preferred choice for high-traffic areas like entrances and lobbies due to its formal appearance, lower friction coefficient, and comfort. Polypropylene rugs, however, are more versatile and can be used in a variety of settings. They are also less likely to cause allergies than polyester rugs and tend to last longer, although they are generally less stain-resistant.
In conclusion, untreated polypropylene is a viable low-cost alternative to polyester for art storage containers due to its strength, heat resistance, ease of moulding, and bacteria, acid, and solvent resistance. However, it is important to consider the specific needs of the artwork being stored, as polyester may offer advantages in certain situations, such as its higher melting point and greater durability in certain contexts.
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Art should be protected from humidity, dust, dirt, mould, and temperature changes
Art is an investment and should be protected. While plastic containers can be used to store art, not all plastics are suitable. Stable plastic materials that do not off-gas can be used to safely house art collections. Plastic containers, bags, boxes, and sheeting made of appropriate plastics are used in museums, galleries, libraries, and archives.
To prevent mould, it is important to control the humidity level. Mould can cause staining or decay and can also chemically react with the artwork's components, causing blooming (discolouration or graying) of the varnish layer and corrosion of metals. Artworks should be regularly dusted with a soft cloth or a clean, soft painter's brush. Feathers should be avoided as their fibres may latch onto canvases. Framing artwork under glass adds a layer of protection but makes the artwork vulnerable to damp and mould due to reduced airflow.
To protect against temperature changes, art should be kept away from extreme temperatures. Art experts recommend keeping artworks between 21-24 degrees Celsius. Avoid placing artwork near cooling or heating units, radiators, fireplaces, and air vents. When using high-wattage lights, maintain a fair distance from the artwork.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of plastic and the artwork. Plastic containers can be ideal for safely housing artwork, but not all plastics are suitable. Plastic enclosures can prevent the byproducts of decomposition from escaping and cause certain films to deteriorate more rapidly. Plasticizers used in PVC, for example, can affect photographic materials. Untreated polypropylene is a low-cost alternative to polyester and is suitable for photographic materials that do not need much support.
Knowing the specific needs of your chosen medium is the foundation for effective art material storage. Store inks and paints in airtight containers to prevent drying out. Place them in a cool, dry place and maintain a regulated temperature. Seal solvent containers tightly. Store canvases upright. Use archival-quality paper storage.
Avoid using materials that are not acid-free, as acid will cause yellowing and deterioration over time, especially when heat and sunlight are involved. Avoid using wool and felt as they give off sulphur compounds that can tarnish metals and cause fading in feathers and ethnographic materials. Avoid using adhesives as they can give off acetic acid which can attack various materials, especially metals. Avoid using rubber adhesives as they give off sulphur and degrade by light exposure, becoming brittle.
Artwork can be stored in a home, gallery, art school, or artist workspace to protect against humidity, dust, dirt, mould, and drastic temperature changes. Artwork can also be stored in wooden containers, but the wood must be sealed. Barrier foil is the best method—it is a gas-impermeable metal foil sealed between layers of inert plastic film. An alternative method is to use an acrylic varnish which does not give off harmful vapours.
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