Simple Solutions for Artwork Storage

Storing artwork effectively can be a challenge.  Not only are works of art expensive, but they are also delicate and can be easily damaged by the wrong conditions.

Whether you are in charge of artwork storage at a museum, art gallery or your own private collection, there are several factors you will need to consider if you want to keep your art in good condition.

Top tips for artwork storage

• Maintain an even climate and ideally a humidity of around 40-50%. Fluctuating temperatures can cause cracks and warping
• Protect your artwork from dust, whilst still allowing air to circulate. Avoid wrapping your paintings in plastic or bubble wrap as this stops the air from circulating and traps condensation inside which could do considerable damage
• Store your artwork carefully, using an appropriate artwork shelving system. Ideally, works of art should be stored vertically, but you should ensure that shelving keeps them separated so that delicate pieces are not crushed or damaged by the weight of other items being stored on top of them
• Keep artworks off the ground at all times, just in case of water damage
• Avoid storing art next to a direct source of heat as this can soften the paint and cause it to come off
• Avoid storing in direct sunlight as this can cause artwork to fade
• If you do decide to roll up artwork, remember that the paint should be rolled to the outside, as although you may think you are keeping it safer with the paint on the inside, this can in fact increase the possibility of cracking and warping

Dustproof picture racking

At Rackline, our talented designers love nothing more than the challenge of creating storage that will meet clients’ bespoke requirements.  When it comes to storing art, our dustproof picture racking is the ideal solution and one that was recently implemented at the Museum of English Rural Life at the University of Reading.

We installed our bespoke picture racking system to tracks on the floor so that artwork could be stored and easily accessed when not in use.  The dustproof seals on the edge of each section prevent dust from getting in and damaging the artwork.

With over 25,000 objects on display and a story to tell about rural England from 1750 to the present day, you can understand why there are lots of artwork and other items to store away safely whilst not on display.

To find out more about our wide and varied solutions for storing artwork please contact our team today on 01782 770 144 or request a call back.