Your Investment in Color:
Art Care Statement

Congratulations on your acquisition of this custom coloured pencil portrait. Coloured pencil is a beautiful, durable medium when properly cared for. The pigments are highly resistant to fading, but like all fine art, protection from environmental factors is essential for the longevity of your piece.

Please follow these guidelines to ensure your portrait remains vibrant for generations:

1. The Cardinal Rule: Avoid Direct Sunlight and UV Exposure

The biggest threat to any artwork is ultraviolet (UV) light, which causes gradual fading and paper discoloration. Display your portrait in an area of your home that does not receive direct, harsh sunlight at any time of the day.

Frame with intention. To guarantee maximum protection, it is highly recommended that you use a professional framing service and request conservation-grade glass (often labelled as UV-filtering, museum glass, or anti-reflective glass), which blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays.

2. Framing and Protection

Keep it covered. Always keep the artwork protected behind glass. Do not hang it in a location where the surface can be easily touched or bumped.

Use acid-free materials. The artwork was created on archival, acid-free paper. When framing, ensure that all mounting boards, mats, and tapes used are also acid-free and lignin-free (conservation quality) to prevent the paper from yellowing or becoming brittle over time.

Avoid aerosol sprays. Never spray household cleaners, air fresheners, or hairspray near the artwork.

3. Environment and Handling

Humidity and Temperature: Display the artwork in a stable environment. Avoid hanging it above active heat sources (like radiators or fireplaces) or in areas with high, fluctuating humidity (like bathrooms). Extreme changes in temperature and humidity can cause the paper to warp or buckle.

Handling: When handling the unframed artwork, always wash your hands first and hold it only by the edges to prevent transferring oils from your skin to the paper surface.

Cleaning: To clean the glass of your framed portrait, gently dust with a clean, dry, soft microfibre cloth. Never spray cleaner directly onto the glass; spray a minimal amount onto a cloth first, away from the frame edge, to avoid liquid seeping inside and damaging the artwork or matting.

By following these simple guidelines, you protect your investment and ensure your commissioned portrait remains a cherished part of your home for many years to come.