Last Updated on August 26, 2025 by MishaOriginalsArt
Depending on which painting you purchase and which medium was used, you should know how to properly maintain it.
Short notes:
Oil on canvas needs to breathe.
A painting usually dries for around 6 months, and during that time (and even later) mold may appear. Without going into too much detail, you might be interested to know that oil paintings actually oxidize rather than evaporate like acrylics. Since oxidation requires oxygen, an oil painting should be framed without glass.
The exception is when a passepartout board is used, or when the glass is placed at a distance from the canvas surface. In that case, the painting has enough space.
A faint smell, similar to fish oil, is normal. It’s part of the process in which the oil painting hardens so it can last for decades, sometimes centuries. However, you will most likely not even notice the smell. Such scents come from the binding medium (I use linseed oil, others may use walnut oil, etc.) or the protective varnish. Over time, they fade.
Acrylic paintings can be framed with glass, but it is not necessary. Acrylic is durable enough without it if kept under normal conditions. Since it dries within about a week (for an average layer thickness), the risk of later mold is lower. Still, I personally prefer to let acrylic paintings breathe as well.
Many of my works on canvas without stretcher bars – meaning just a piece of loose canvas – are glued with decoupage glue. This glue is acid-free, does not damage the canvas, and does not alter the chemical composition of the paint. If needed, the artwork can be transferred to a new frame or you can have the passepartout replaced safely. The glue can be removed with water, allowing the artwork to be safely managed.
If you purchase an artwork done in soft pastels, oil pastels (different from oil paints in sticks), or watercolors, know that such works must be placed under glass or plastic. These are delicate paints that do not last as long as oil or acrylic, so a good frame is essential. I currently do not produce such works for sale, but it’s good to be aware.
What are normal conditions for a painting?
Standard indoor lighting, not above a stove or fireplace, not exposed to excessive humidity or heat, and not outdoors.
In short: wherever you keep your phone or favorite book, keep your painting as well.
What to do once you choose a painting
Positioning the painting
- Avoid direct sunlight – although the protective layer shields against UV rays, it’s safer in the long run.
- Keep the painting away from heat sources (radiators, air conditioners) – paint expands and contracts depending on drying and environmental conditions, which may cause cracking after years of heat exposure.
- Hang the painting on a wall not exposed to moisture – canvas absorbs humidity, which may cause mold and unpleasant smells over time.
- Optimal room temperature: 18–22°C.
- Avoid placing it in kitchens or bathrooms due to steam and moisture.
Cleaning
- Use a soft microfiber cloth.
- Wipe gently, without pressure.
- NEVER use water or chemical cleaning agents. (Though in my opinion, a lightly damp cloth is acceptable since dry acrylic/oil is not harmed by a little moisture during cleaning.)
- Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the frame glass – the chemicals may seep through and damage the canvas.
Handling
- Always hold the painting with both hands to minimize the chance of dropping it.
- Do not touch the surface with bare fingers, as skin oils and acids can damage it over time. (Not that paintings are touched often, but it’s worth mentioning.)
- When transporting, always protect the frame corners.
Important notes
- Periodically check the frame for possible loosening.
- Ensure stable wall mounting.
- For additional information, feel free to contact me at stankovic.art.info@gmail.com