I believe that acquiring a piece of art is an invitation to slow down, appreciate craftsmanship, and steward something timeless. Whether you’ve just brought home a bold canvas from your favorite artist or invested in a culturally rich commission, caring for your oil painting is an act of respect for the artist, the medium, culture as a whole, but most importantly yourself and your investment.
Here’s how to keep your oil painting glowing with integrity for generations to come.
Let It Breathe
Oil paintings are breathing works. Even after leaving the studio, they continue to dry and settle for months, sometimes years. During this time, it's best to:
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Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading and cracking.
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Keep it in a well-ventilated, stable environment. No drastic temperature shifts, and definitely no damp basements or overheated fireplaces.
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Be gentle if the surface feels slightly tacky at first. This is natural.
Art deserves slow acclimatization. Patience is preservation.
Handle With Conscious Hands
Your painting may be bold, but it’s not bulletproof.
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Always handle with clean, dry hands, or better yet, gloves.
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Hold it by the frame, not the canvas, to avoid tension or tears.
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Never lean artwork on its corners. Store it upright and supported.
Oil paintings are sensitive to pressure. Treating them with care honors the layers of time, texture, and intention within.
Placement is Power
You chose this piece for a reason. Give it the right space to thrive.
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Avoid walls with high humidity (like bathrooms or kitchens).
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Stay away from direct HVAC vents, which can dry and age the paint unnaturally.
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Position it at eye level, in a place where people can pause and take it in.
Art is a daily dialogue. Where you place it defines how it's experienced, and how it ages.
Keep it clean
A soft dusting every few months keeps your painting fresh without disrupting its finish.
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Use a clean, dry, natural-bristle brush (like a soft sable or goat-hair brush).
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Gently brush across the surface. Do not apply pressure, or cleaners.
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Never use water or household cleaners. Even the most natural ones can damage oil-based pigments.
Know When to Ask for Help
Some things are best left to experts.
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If the painting cracks, warps, or becomes discolored, don’t attempt DIY fixes.
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A professional conservator can restore and preserve the piece without compromising its integrity.
Respecting craft means trusting specialists. Art isn’t disposable; it’s heirloom-worthy.
Finishing Touch
Framing isn't just decorative. A quality frame protects edges, stabilizes the structure, and complements your aesthetic. We recommend:
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Museum-grade, acid-free backing
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UV-protective glass only if the work is on paper or mixed media. Not over oils
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Working with a framer who understands contemporary and classical needs
Honor What You Own
With Notwhatnot, I create for meaning. Each painting carries a lineage of technique, cultural memory, and innovation. By caring for your artwork with intent, you become part of that legacy.
- Notwhatnot