Original artwork is so much more than decoration. It can seem to have sentimental, historic, or heritage value. Be it a watercolour canvas, limited-edition print, family heirloom, or collector’s item, you need to safeguard it.
Most of us are only interested in the outward appearance of the frame itself, not what is happening behind the glass. This is where framing for conservation makes all the difference. The work is a little more expensive than standard framing, but the long-term gains often exceed the initial expense.
What is Conservation Framing?
Conservation framing is a dedicated framing technique which includes methods of preserving your artwork and preventing it from damage through time.
Unlike typical framing, conservation framing involves the use of materials that minimise exposure to potentially damaging elements such as light, moisture, acid, and pollutants.
They are selected for providing effective protection to the artwork without changing how it looks.
Conservation framing is a common recommendation for valuable or irreplaceable pieces of art by professionals providing framing in Melbourne.
How Standard Framing Can Cause Problems?
Standard framing materials leak acids and chemicals that imperceptibly damage artwork over time.
Over time, this can lead to:
- Yellowing of paper
- Fading colours
- Staining around edges
- Brittle materials
- Permanent deterioration
The harm frequently occurs over time, as a result, it can be tough to spot till critical.
With original artwork, prevention is so much cheaper than restoration.
Acid-Free Materials Make a Difference
A major aspect of conservation framing is the use of acid-free materials.
Acid-Free Mat Boards
These boards are designed to inhibit harmful chemicals from leaching in artwork.
Archival Backing
A backing gives stability and is an important factor to reduce discolouration over time.
Conservation Tapes and Mounts
Artwork mounted with special methods does not get damaged permanently.
For anyone framing artwork destined for the more permanent end of things, many professional framers in Sydney would be using archival materials.
UV Protection Helps Prevent Fading
One of the most serious dangers to works of art is sunlight.
Natural sunlight, even indirect light, will cause colours to slowly fade and weaken paper fibres over time.
Much conservation framing also uses UV-protective glass to limit the amount of harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Benefits include:
- Better colour retention
- Reduced fading
- Longer artwork lifespan
- Enhanced protection for signatures and fine details
This provides additional protection, especially for artwork hung in bright rooms.
Preserving Value Over Time
The original pieces can increase in dollar value. But bad framing can reduce its condition and resale value.
As part of the process, collectors, galleries and appraisers will regularly investigate an artwork’s provenance.
Conservation framing is also mostly suggested by Melbourne book matting services when the photo frame is intended for investment, as it maintains the authenticity and condition of the original document.
And, while the thing arguably only has sentimental value, its storage guarantees memories to go with it.
Is the Extra Cost Worth It?
Standard framing may be okay for a mass-produced piece of art like a poster. But original art needs better attention.
The extra investment generally only amounts to a minor fraction of the total worth of the artwork. In return you can benefit from improved protection which further ensures peace of mind.
Most of the leading framers in Sydney and conservation specialists argue that preservation is included in the artwork investment itself.
Final Thoughts
Conservation framing is more than just an exercise in presentation. It is about protecting and preserving the integrity of original work.
When you are looking for expert framing in Melbourne or professional framers in Sydney, conservation framing will help preserve the original beauty of your art for future generations. The extra investment today can save expensive damage tomorrow and be worth it for any valuable item.
