about the art
substrates
stretched canvas
The paintings that were created on canvas were done so on what is called a gallery wrapped canvas. What this means is that the canvas has been stretched over a wooden frame (stretcher bars) and stapled on the back where they will not be seen. All of the sides have been finished with either a solid colour or are a continuation of the painting.
cradled wood panel
1/8" thick high quality birch panels with a pine frame attached on the back for stabilization from twisting or warping. Crossbars are also added to the larger sizes.
paper
Various types of paper are used for some of my paintings including high quality cold pressed watercolour paper, Yupo® paper, and more recently, Tyvek®.
hanging your art
wire & hardware
Most of the paintings come already fitted with quality D-Ring hooks and coated wire, which is neatly wound back for a clean finish. For best results hang the wired artwork on two nails level with each other, each placed approximately 1/4 of the width of the painting off-center. This will help keep the painting level by preventing small movements that can cause it to shift, especially if it is located on a wall which has a door that is used often.
sawtooth hanger
Alternatively, some of the smaller works are instead fitted with a sawtooth hanger which has been carefully centered on the piece. Large or small, every one of my paintings is ready to hang right out of the box!
deluxe floreat hanger
If your painting has been fitted with a hanging wire one deluxe floreat hanger appropriate for its weight will be included with your purchase. Additional hangers may be purchased here.
care
Best results for the longevity of your painting will be achieved when the following recommendations can be met:
-
Do not hang your painting where it will come in contact with direct sunlight. A thin layer of varnish is applied to most of the paintings for UV protection, but for colour longevity this is best practice.
-
Keep your painting at room temperature 18-24°C (65-75°F). Acrylic paint becomes soft at 60°C (140°F) and subsequently becomes sensitive to damage from pressure or abrasion, possibly resulting in marring of the surface and/or adhesion of unwanted particles. Cracking can occur in temperatures below 5°C (40°F) due to increased brittleness.
-
Do not display or store your artwork in a high humidity area. Exposure to high humidity can result in the development of mould.
-
Never store your artwork wrapped in plastic as the two surfaces may adhere permanently to each other.
-
Clean your painting often by use of a feather/synthetic duster or compressed air for the more heavily textured works. In the case of compressed air, hold the nozzle approximately 8 to 10 inches away from the surface and spray on an angle instead of directly into the piece to avoid embedding any dust particles. Never use a cleaning agent to clean your artwork!