Guidelines for Cleaning and Maintaining Art:
Art collectors take pride in their extensive collections, artistic knowledge, and beautiful galleries. But maintaining an art collection—that takes WORK. Some most frequently asked questions we receive are, “How do you clean art?”
How to clean Art on Canvas: Works on canvas require careful attention. If artwork is in need of extensive cleaning treatment, it is recommended a professional art conservationist clean and restore painting. If artwork requires a light dusting, tap painting lightly to remove any loose dirt or dust. Afterwards, use a non-shedding, light cloth and gently dust surface of painting.
How to clean Art located behind Plexiglass: Plexiglass is often preferred when exhibiting artworks on paper for its flexibility, light-weight composition, and its ability to refract and filter damaging UV light. When cleaning dust and dirt from plexiglass, avoid using cleaning supplies that contain ammonia, abrasives, or solvents. Use a gentle cloth made of non-abrasive materials. Lightly wet cloth and gently polish plexiglass. Continue to polish and turn cloth to avoid washing plexiglass with a dirtied area.
How to clean Art on Metal: A microfiber cloth is excellent for removing dust and small blemishes. Even though artwork on metal is often protected with a high-gloss urethane coating, long-term damage can still occur if not taken care of properly. To keep your artwork on metal shining, use a dry cotton cloth to lightly rub off dust. Be sure to use a clean cloth, as soiled fabric could potentially cause damage.
To remove fingerprints, first remove any dust to reduce chance of scratching artwork with loose grains. Next, dilute a spray detailer, found in most auto parts stores with water. Use cleaner to gently wipe off fingerprints. Do not use metal cleaner to polish or clean art. This risks removing protective clear coat and sheen of artwork.
How to clean Bronze Sculptures: Bronze is created from copper alloys, making bronze sculptures incredibly durable. Bronze sculptures are typically coated with a layer of wax or clear lacquer upon completion. This acts as a barrier to any humidity and prevents oxidation and metal discoloration. While this initial wax or lacquer coating will ensure longevity of your bronze sculpture against harmful oxidizing agents, each bronze sculpture should be dusted regularly. To best clean and dust bronze, mix together unscented soap and water in bowl. Lightly buff sculpture using clean cloth and soapy mixture. Soaps with fragrance or unnatural additives may have unknown consequences, so it’s best to avoid these while special bronze cleaners are costly and unnecessary.
How to clean Acrylic Sculptures: Acrylic sculptures should be cleaned and cared for like artworks behind plexiglass. Do not polish or wet any painted areas of acrylic sculpture as this may potentially cause damage.