Permanence of Artists' Materials - Paintings and Works of Art on Paper

Module Synopsis

This module introduces visual artists to issues of permanence in art. It provides information on how to increase the permanence and longevity of paintings on canvas, wood products, other supports and works of art on paper. The influence of materials and techniques on deterioration, the properties and characteristic defects of specific media, and basic guidelines on the choice and use of modern artists' materials are discussed. Matting, framing, handling, and storage techniques to prevent deterioration and improve the longevity of even the most fragile artworks are also provided. Participants will have an opportunity to share their expertise and experience, and ask questions on specific materials and problems.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:

• identify internal and external agents of deterioration of paintings and works of art on paper
• understand the properties and permanence of various artists' materials
• recognize the characteristic appearance and defects of different artists' materials including supports, grounds, paint media and surface coatings
• propose preventive procedures to promote the longevity of paintings and works of art on paper, including the choice of media and techniques
• choose matting, framing, handling, and storage techniques to prevent deterioration and damage

Units - Paintings

Damage, Deterioration, and Change
Damage and deterioration that are typical of paintings on canvas and wood supports. Internal and external agents of deterioration. Mechanisms of change and deterioration.

Supports
Characteristic defects and properties of materials. Guidelines for choosing and using canvas, wood, and processed wood products as supports for paintings.

Ground Preparation
Typical materials and techniques to prepare supports for paintings. Implications of ground preparation in terms of longevity.

Media and Pigments
Characteristic properties and defects of specific artists' media. Inherent vice; materials and techniques that contribute to premature deterioration or ongoing instability. Guidelines for choosing and using materials to extend longevity and permanence.

Surface Coatings
Properties of natural and synthetic resin varnishes. Guidelines for choosing and using products currently available.

Framing
Recommended framing practices. Preventive measures in the absence of a traditional frame. Importance of a backing board and methods for its attachment.

Units - Works of Art on Paper

Damage, Deterioration, and Change
Physical and chemical changes caused by inherent properties of the artwork and by the environment.

Supports
Variations in fibre, sizing, and fillers in paper and the relevance of each to paper permanence. Composition and longevity of contemporary papers. Simple tests to identify unstable papers.

Media
Composition and deterioration of modern media. Actions to protect vulnerable media.

Fixatives and Adhesives
Properties of adhesives that affect function and permanence. Fixatives and adhesives commonly used on paper. Unstable adhesives and more suitable options.

Matting, Framing, and Storage
Safe materials for matting and framing. Techniques for presentation and storage, e.g. preparing wheat starch paste, using a number of hinging methods, and matting works of art. Alternate techniques for artworks that cannot be matted and framed using traditional methods.

Target Audience

Artists, art educators, and students.

Facilitators

Debra Daly Hartin and Sherry Guild

Language

English

Enrollment Limits

Minimum 10; maximum 15

Duration

2 days

Special Requirements

The presentation room should have good light for general discussion or examination of artwork or didactic display, but it must also be possible to darken the lecture area to permit the viewing of projected images. The space must also allow for hands-on activities. A sink nearby would be convenient. A list of specific equipment such as a screen, podium, and tables is available.