Pastel portraits are delicate and require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here are some specific care tips to help you preserve your pastel portraits and keep them in excellent condition for years to come.

1. Proper Framing

Framing your pastel portrait correctly is crucial for protecting it from damage and environmental factors.

• Use UV-Protective Glass: UV-protective glass helps prevent fading and discoloration caused by exposure to sunlight.
• Matting: Use acid-free matting to prevent the glass from touching the pastel surface. This creates a space between the artwork and the glass, reducing the risk of smudging.
• Sealed Backing: Ensure the frame has a sealed backing to keep out dust, moisture, and insects. Acid-free backing boards are ideal for protecting the artwork.

2. Handling with Care

Pastel artworks are particularly susceptible to smudging and damage. Handle them with utmost care to avoid any harm.

• Wear Gloves: Always wear clean, white cotton gloves when handling the portrait to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your hands.
• Avoid Touching the Surface: Never touch the pastel surface directly. Hold the portrait by its edges or frame to prevent smudging.
• Support the Portrait: Use both hands to support the portrait evenly when moving it to prevent bending or warping.

3. Displaying Properly

The location where you display your pastel portrait can significantly affect its preservation.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade. Display the portrait in a location with indirect lighting.
• Control Humidity: High humidity can cause the paper to warp and the pastels to deteriorate. Maintain a stable environment with moderate humidity levels (around 40-60%).
• Avoid Heat Sources: Keep the portrait away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces, which can cause the paper to dry out and become brittle.

4. Cleaning and Dusting

Regular cleaning and dusting will help maintain the appearance of your pastel portrait.

• Dusting: Gently dust the frame and glass cover with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions.
• Cleaning the Glass: If the glass needs cleaning, use a glass cleaner sparingly and spray it onto a cloth, not directly onto the glass. This prevents cleaner from seeping under the frame and damaging the artwork.

5. Storing Properly

If you need to store your pastel portrait, follow these guidelines to ensure its protection.

• Use Archival Materials: Store the portrait in acid-free, archival-quality materials to prevent deterioration.
• Flat Storage: Store the portrait flat to avoid bending or warping. Place it in a sturdy, flat box with a protective cover.
• Climate Control: Store the portrait in a climate-controlled environment to avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

6. Applying Fixative

Using a fixative spray can help protect the pastels from smudging, but it should be applied with caution.

• Professional Application: Consider having a professional apply the fixative to avoid potential damage.
• Test First: If you decide to apply the fixative yourself, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t alter the appearance of the pastels.
• Use Sparingly: Apply the fixative sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Overuse can darken or change the colors of the pastels.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and integrity of pastel portraits. By following these tips on framing, handling, displaying, cleaning, storing, and applying fixative, you can ensure that your pastel portrait remains in excellent condition for years to come. With the right care, your artwork will continue to be a cherished and enduring piece of your collection.