Nowadays, art is not only understood as a pure commodity but is also an emotional and aesthetic expression for collectors, which also defines the artist himself. Therefore, the acquired work of art should not only be carefully preserved but also be properly transported.
Transportation of Delicate Art
If a work of art is going to be transported, considering that it had been stored for a long time, the canvas should be left in the frame so that the desired stability is maintained. A rolled canvas will crack more quickly. The same applies to the canvas if the support frame is removed since the tension is lost and the paint layer changes again.
Every transport is therefore always a burden for the art object, not only with regard to the mechanical impairments but also due to the vibration of the canvas when worn and repositioned or the climatic changes.
A painting can initially be leaned upright against the wall and secured with cardboard or polystyrene. This also applies to the storage of several works of art that have to be separated from each other and should have a safe stand so that they do not tip over. During transport, e.g. B. with a vehicle, an expensive painting should always be placed in the direction of travel, since the vibration of the canvas is less.
Cardboard, wood, and polystyrene are high-quality packaging materials. Plastic is not so good because this material blocks the air supply required for the artwork. Oil paintings in particular require the airflow and must be able to breathe so that the material movement in the picture can take place under normal conditions. If there is no air supply, a canvas can also become damp more quickly, form condensation, or even become moldy.
Moisture-storing materials are very good, including untreated fabrics such as cotton or normal wool, on which pictures can be placed or separated. However, these should not be wrapped directly around the picture during transport, as this creates greater friction on the paint layers. It is better to use wrapping paper or a bubble wrap, with the latter the air pockets should not be inside but outside.
If the artwork is being transported, the climatic conditions should be similar to the previous home or structure from which it was hanging. A specific time of day is then chosen for the transport, although the transport route should not be too long in the best case.
If it is necessary to remove and roll the painting from the frame due to lack of space, the picture surface should always point outwards so that the motif and the painted side are visible. Covering with textiles is very good to protect the surface. The roll is then placed in a wooden box or box and protected from impact and mechanical effects. These should always be slightly larger than the rolled canvas and offer enough space without the canvas rumbling back and forth. The storage of several frameless canvases without a roll is a little better, but as a careful and flat stacking with an intermediate insert. Cotton, styrofoam or cardboard are also suitable here.
It’s always best to contact a professional removalist to ensure the safety of your work of art. Sydney removalist could offer you help and ensure safety during transport.