Art Care & Maintenance
An Aboriginal artwork is a unique and meaningful piece that carries the stories, culture and connection to Country of the artist who created it. At Mbantua Gallery, each artwork is carefully handled and prepared before it begins its journey to you and with the right care and attention, your painting can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. The following guidelines provide simple steps to help maintain the beauty and condition of your artwork over time.
Displaying Your Artwork
Choosing the right location for your artwork is an important part of preserving its beauty.
- Display your painting indoors in a stable environment away from direct sunlight, which can potentially cause colours to fade over time.
- Avoid placing artwork near heaters, fireplaces, air conditioners or areas with significant temperature changes.
- Keep your artwork away from areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or areas prone to moisture.
- Allow space around your artwork for air circulation and avoid leaning items directly against the surface.
Cleaning Your Painting
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Gently remove dust using a soft, dry brush or a clean, soft cloth.
- Do not use cleaning products, water, sprays or chemicals on the canvas surface.
Caring for Stretched Canvas Paintings
If your painting has been professionally stretched onto a wooden frame:
- Handle the artwork carefully by holding the sides of the frame rather than touching the canvas surface.
- Avoid placing pressure on the canvas, as this can loosen the tension or damage the artwork.
- If the canvas becomes loose over time, we recommend seeking professional advice before attempting any adjustments.
Caring for Unstretched Canvas Paintings
If your artwork arrives rolled:
- Keep the painting rolled until you are ready to have it professionally stretched or framed.
- Avoid folding the canvas, as this may permanently damage the paint surface.
- Store your rolled artwork in a safe, dry environment away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- When ready to display, we recommend using an experienced framer familiar with handling Aboriginal artworks.
Moving and Storing Your Artwork
When moving or storing your artwork:
- Wrap the painting carefully using suitable protective materials.
- Store artwork upright where possible and avoid placing heavy items on top.
- Keep the artwork in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
- Avoid storing paintings in garages, sheds or areas exposed to extreme temperatures.
Protecting Your Investment
Your Mbantua Gallery artwork is a one-of-a-kind piece created by an Aboriginal artist, representing a connection to Country, culture and story. With thoughtful care and attention, your painting can remain a treasured part of your home and collection for many years to come.
If you have any questions about caring for your artwork, please contact our friendly Mbantua Gallery team - we are always happy to provide guidance and support.