Lots of painters prefer and consider oil painting to be their top choice because of its flexibility and pliability. Art lovers also love them (oil paintings) because of their outstanding colors and the effect it gives on any media.
As good as oil paintings are, however, it is important to note the nature of oil paints, how to preserve and maintain oil paintings, what to do, and whatnots. This article does justice to that, and informs art purchasers like us, on the best practices for our oil paintings.
Nature of Oil Paintings
Oil paintings as it may be already clear, are paintings done using oil paints (colors), or a combination of oil paints to achieve desired colors on a medium. Since they are made from oils, they do not dry quickly, and painters can come back hours after leaving an artwork to continue painting, and the oils still remain their pliability. An advantage over acrylic paints since acrylic paints dry quickly.
It is so easy to mix colors together as they have more pigment in them, and it gives a great combination of colors. A plus is that the color mixed on the palette is the same color that remains on the canvas after it dries. This is different for acrylic paintings as a combination of colors on acrylic paints gives a slightly darker tint when it dries. This is a reason why a burst of rich, vivid colors is easily achieved with oil paintings.
With the major characteristics of oil paintings listed out, it is no wonder why oil paintings require so much care and attention. It has a high value, so maintenance is important to preserve it. What not to do to your oil paintings will be shared to help ease your worry, as purchasing an oil painting is not a bother at all.
The Don’ts to Oil Paintings
Protect Your Painting from Direct Sunlight
Direct and prolonged sunlight damages lots of things, even our skin. If you expose your painting for too long to sunlight, the colors on the canvas tend to fade.
It extends further to anything that emits hot air as well. So, hanging oil paintings directly over radiators, fire heaters, steam swimming pools, you name it… Anything that releases hot air generally is not advised. Even if you want to hang your Sorolla paintings in your room and every day enjoy his great landscapes, think twice if your room temperature is very high.
Proper Hanging of Your Paintings
Aha! How to hang your paintings. How to hang your paintings should have no limitations, or should it?
Well, things to take note of is to not hang or lean your painting on any surface or substance that is sharp or pointed. An obvious reason for this as it will leave a scar, dent on your painting. If it has a frame, you can lean it over a smooth surface making sure that the bars of the frame are resting on the wall or the surface to not damage the painting. The same applies to paintings without frames, as it should be placed on a smooth wall or surface.
Make sure it is hung properly always. It should not be facing the airway as the breeze or wind can knock it off. If you have concerns about the frame being purchased, you can order without a frame and take it to a reputable framer yourself for more ease.