Can You Hang Pastel Paintings in Moist Environments

Are you a fan of delicate pastel paintings but live in a humid environment? Do you worry about the longevity of your artwork due to moisture in the air? It’s a common concern among art enthusiasts who reside in tropical or coastal regions. The thought of investing in a beautiful pastel painting only to have it ruined by moisture can be quite distressing.

But fear not, as we delve into the matter and explore whether or not it’s safe to hang pastel paintings in moist environments. We will analyze the nature of pastel paintings, why humidity poses a threat, and how to protect your artwork from potential damage. So, if you’re ready to learn more about preserving your precious artwork without compromising on aesthetics, keep reading.

Understanding Pastel Paintings: Materials and Differences from Other Types of Paintings

Pastel painting is a technique that uses soft pastels in the form of chalk-like sticks to create paintings. The pastel sticks consist of pure pigment mixed with a binder, which is usually gum arabic or gum tragacanth. This combination produces a powdery texture that is applied directly onto paper or other surfaces, including canvas, board, or fabric.

One significant difference between pastel paintings and other types of paintings is the way they are created. Unlike oil or acrylic paint, which can be blended and layered over each other, pastels do not mix with each other. Instead, the application of different shades and colors creates a unique effect that cannot be replicated with any other medium.

Another difference is the choice of materials used in creating pastel paintings. While oil paints require solvents for cleaning brushes and thinning paint, pastels do not need any such thing. They also do not emit fumes like oil paints which makes it easier for artists to work indoors without worrying about ventilation.

Pastel Painting Materials

To create beautiful pastel paintings, an artist needs to have the right set of materials. Here are some essential items required:

• Pastels: Soft pastels are made up of powdered pigment mixed with a binder.
• Paper: Pastel paper should have enough tooth (texture) to hold the powdery pigments on its surface.
• Fixative: A fixative spray helps to protect the painting by preventing smudging or fading.
• Easel: An easel provides support for the artwork during painting.

The Impact of Moisture on Pastel Paintings and Why it Matters

Moisture can cause significant damage to pastel paintings, especially in areas with high humidity levels. The moisture can cause the pastel pigments to dissolve or smear, which can result in color changes and loss of details.

The impact of moisture on pastel paintings is also dependent on the type of paper used for the artwork. Some papers are more resistant to moisture than others and can withstand higher levels of humidity without damage.

How Moisture Affects Pastel Paintings

There are several ways in which moisture can affect pastel paintings:

• Color Changes: High humidity levels can cause the colors of the painting to change or fade.
• Dissolving Pigments: Moisture can dissolve or smear the pastel pigments on the surface affecting its texture.
• Mold Growth: In humid environments, mold growth may appear on the surface of the painting causing discoloration.

Susceptibility of Different Types of Pastels and Painting Techniques to Moisture Damage

Different types of pastels have varying degrees of susceptibility to moisture damage. For instance, oil pastels are more resistant to moisture than soft pastels due to their wax binder which makes them less soluble.

Similarly, some painting techniques used with pastels are more susceptible to damage from moisture than others. For instance, blending techniques that involve using solvents like alcohol or water may be affected by high humidity levels.

Pastel Types and Susceptibility

Here is a list showing different types of pastels and their susceptibility:

• Soft Pastels: Soft Pastels contain powdery pigment held together by a gum binder which makes it highly susceptible to moisture damage.
• Oil Pastels: Oil Pastels use a wax binder that makes it more resistant to moisture damage than other types of pastels.
• Hard Pastels: Hard pastels use a higher concentration of binder compared to pigment which makes it more resistant to moisture damage.

Painting Techniques and Susceptibility

Some painting techniques are more susceptible to moisture damage than others. Here are some examples:

• Blending with Solvents: Blending pastel pigments with solvents like water or alcohol can make them more susceptible to moisture damage.
• Dry Brushing: Dry brushing is a technique that involves using minimal amounts of pastel pigment on a rough surface. This technique is less susceptible to moisture damage.
• Layering: Layering involves building up multiple layers of pastel color on the surface, which may be affected by high humidity levels.

Measuring Humidity Levels in a Room to Determine if it is Safe for Hanging Pastel Paintings

Before hanging pastel paintings, it is essential to measure the humidity levels in the room where they will be displayed. High humidity levels can cause significant damage to the artwork, affecting its colors, texture, and overall quality.

Fortunately, there are several tools available for measuring humidity levels in a room accurately.

Tools for Measuring Humidity Levels

Here are some tools commonly used for measuring humidity levels:

• Hygrometer: A hygrometer measures relative humidity in the air. It can be either analog or digital and gives an accurate reading of the humidity level.
• Thermometer-Hygrometer Combo: This device measures both temperature and relative humidity at the same time providing you with all necessary information in one tool.
• Data Loggers: These devices record environmental conditions over time and provide detailed information about temperature and relative humidity changes over time periods ranging from minutes to months.

Reducing Moisture Levels in a Room Before Hanging Pastel Paintings

There are several ways to reduce moisture levels in a room before hanging pastel paintings. These methods can help protect the artwork from damage caused by high humidity levels.

Ways to Reduce Moisture Levels

Here are some ways to reduce moisture levels in a room:

• Dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers effectively reduce humidity levels in the air by removing excess moisture.
• Air Conditioning: Air conditioning systems can dehumidify the air, reducing high humidity levels.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and helps remove excess moisture from the air.

Framing and Mounting Pastel Paintings in Moist Environments: Materials and Considerations

Framing and mounting pastel paintings can help protect them from moisture damage. However, it is important to choose materials that are suitable for humid environments.

Materials for Framing and Mounting Pastel Paintings

Here are some materials that are suitable for framing and mounting pastel paintings in humid environments:

• Glass or Acrylic Glazing: Glass or acrylic glazing provides an effective barrier between the artwork and moisture. It also protects the painting from dust, dirt, and other pollutants that may harm its surface.
• Rigid Backing Board: A rigid backing board provides support for the artwork while preventing it from bending or buckling over time due to changes in humidity.
• Paper Mats: Paper mats create a separation between the painting and frame, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate without damaging the artwork’s surface.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Preserving the Quality of Pastel Paintings in Humid Spaces

Preserving the quality of pastel paintings in humid spaces requires proper maintenance and cleaning. Here are some tips to help protect your artwork from moisture damage:

Tips for Maintenance and Cleaning

• Store the painting in a dry place: Store the painting in a cool, dry place with low humidity levels when it’s not on display.
• Clean the painting regularly: Use a soft-bristled brush or a lint-free cloth to gently remove any dust or dirt on the surface of the artwork.
• Use fixative spray: Apply fixative spray to protect the artwork from smudging or fading over time.

Ensuring Longevity of Pastel Artwork When Displaying it in Damp Locations: Resources Available for Further Information

If you want to learn more about how to ensure longevity of pastel artwork when displaying it in damp locations, there are several resources available. These resources include online forums, blogs, books, and videos that provide valuable information on how to care for pastel paintings.

Resources for Further Information

• Pastel Society of America: This organization provides education and resources for pastel artists to help them create high-quality artwork while preserving its longevity.
• The Artist’s Network: This website offers articles, tutorials, and videos on how to care for pastel artwork.
• Pastel Journal: A magazine dedicated solely to pastel art featuring tips on framing, mounting, and preserving delicate pastels.

In conclusion, pastel paintings can be hung in moist environments with proper care and protection measures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Can You Hang Pastel Paintings in Moist Environments

What is the weakness of pastel painting?
Creating pastel art is a delicate process as it can easily be smudged, leaving marks on your fingers, hands, clothing, and work area. When using fixative spray, be cautious not to use too much as it may dull and darken the colors of your artwork.

What is the best surface for pastel painting?
Although textured paper is the preferred surface for pastels, there are other options such as boards, canvas, and even sandpaper.

Do pastel paintings fade in sunlight?
Sunlight can damage paper, particularly pastel shades in colors like rose, crimson, and brown. To protect paper from UV rays, it is recommended to use a glass with 70-99% UV protection when displaying it.

How long do pastel paintings last?
With proper maintenance, your artwork can endure for generations. Pastel, in particular, is known for its longevity and many pieces created over two centuries ago remain vibrant and pristine to this day.

Do pastel paintings need to be under glass?
An unframed pastel painting is delicate and should be handled carefully because the paint can easily come off and ruin the work. To protect the painting, it is recommended to frame it behind glass as soon as possible.

Are pastel paintings framed under glass?
When it comes to framing artwork, the only distinguishable factor between pastel and oil paintings is the use of glass. To safeguard pastels from dust, pollution, or insects, they require protection from glass to prevent any harm to the artwork.