Reference photograph: Wendy Salisbury
Once your drawing or painting has been framed and you have your artwork home there are a few things to consider. I offer a variety of mediums including colour pencils, graphite pencils, oil and acrylic paintings and soon to be pastels. No matter what medium you choose for your portrait I only use lightfast materials. Lightfast ratings on art materials is incredibly important if the artwork is to last. The higher the rating the longer the material will last.
If you have seen any of my videos over on my Facebook page or YouTube channel you will see me use a semitransparent paper under my hand. This is called Glassine and is acid free and PH neutral. There are a couple of reasons why I use this. The first is to ensure that no oils from my hand come into contact with the paper. I then use it in shipping and storing my artwork to act as a protective layer in between the artwork and the clear sleeve they are placed in (which is also acid free).
Reference photograph taken by myself.
All that being said, there are factors that have to be taken into account when you have your portrait home. Where you choose to hang and display the artwork is very important. As with many things sunlight and heat can have detrimental effects.
Where:
All artwork should never be displayed in an area that is in direct sunlight. I also recommend that your portrait should not be displayed above a heat source. For instance, a radiator or fire place for obvious reasons.
Ideally, if you have somewhere that is near a natural light source but not in full sunlight this will show your portrait off in the best light. I have many paintings and drawings all over my house and they are hung in various places but always away from direct sunlight.
Have I mentioned this enough yet :).
I mentioned in my previous post about framing with UV glass. This is something that is definitely worth while doing and would be worth speaking to your local framer about.
If you have any questions regarding framing and how to look after your portrait please don’t hesitate to contact me.