Protecting your artworks will guarantee its longevity. There are pre-emptive measures that one can and should take when owning a handmade oil painting. Oil is a durable artistic media, however, damages are common. Temperature changes, cleaning, hanging, lighting and storage can all cause different types of blemishes, including:

o Cracks in the paint,

o Color Distortions of the canvas,

o Fading and discoloration of the painting

1. Mishandling of your oil paintings will inevitably cause damage, so be certain to take preventative measures when moving the painting. In a move, be sure to seal and insulate the artwork, this will prevent distortion from hot and cold temperature changes, as well as bumps and bangs. Bubble-wrap your painting even if moving, this way, if the cover is punctured, you still have a safety net.

2. Temperature changes might cause your painting to expand and contrast. This can cause cracking of the paint. Some differences in temperature are inevitable, but to avoid severe changes hang the painting somewhere in the home or office where humidity and temperature are reasonably constant. Avoid hanging the painting near doorways, windows, and air ducts, including fireplaces, bathrooms and kitchens.

3. Lighting - Never hang your painting in direct sunlight! This will cause fading of the paint, as well as frequent temperature change from day to night, which will cause cracking. In choosing the correct artificial lighting, try flood lighting or if using spots, use a low frequency bulb, as high concentration of direct light will have the same effect on your painting as sunlight. (For more information on lighting, refer toArtCorner.com and 'The Right Light' blog post)

4. When hanging, consider 'people' damage. Avoid hanging your painting in an area where people may bump it. Just recently a $139 million Picasso had a hole punctured into it! Your painting should theoretically be hung at eye level, but in narrow spaces like hallways, a bit higher wouldn't hurt. 8 to 10 inches breathing room above furniture should salvage the painting from mishap. Another consideration is cigarette smoke. If you have a designated smoke area, hang up a poster, this is not where you want your oil painting.

5. When storing, basements and attics are not your best bet. Temperatures are typically very dry or very wet in these environments. Cover your painting on both sides with bubble wrap or corrugated plastic, box it up in cardboard, and store it in a closet that remains as close to room temperature as possible.

6. Cleaning your painting can be a risky proposition. Dusting very lightly and infrequently with a lint free silk cloth or a soft brush is okay, but it is best to rely on experts and professionals to help with full cleaning and repair.

Personally, I find some of the discolorations and blemishes as adding character to the artwork. Handmade oil paintings are built to last, but if you follow these simple steps, they will keep their shine and spark for many, many years.