2. If you are using artificial light to illuminate a painting or photograph, do not position the light so that it falls directly on the artwork. Artificial lighting can become too hot and cause heat damage. 3. Stay clear of fluorescent lighting. This artificial light source emits powerful ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) that is detrimental to paper- based works of all kinds. UV rays are so strong they destroy color at the molecular level by breaking down the chemical bonds. This process is known as photolysis. Have you ever seen yellowed books and photographs that appear brittle and fragile? This is known as photo- oxidation, another form of decomposition caused by exposure to UV rays. The damage caused by ultraviolet radiation is irreversible, so protect your photos and artwork from UV lighting.
The following is a list of lighting options to consider: 1. LED lights are energy efficient, whichmeans they last a long time, and you won’t be tasked with continually changing out bulbs. They are considered a safe option as they emit a very small amount of ultraviolet radiation and heat. LED lights are also versatile, available in a range of warm to cool temperatures. 2. You may consider using halogen lights if you want a cooler tone, but be aware that halogen lights produce a higher degree of heat. To protect your collection, you will want to make sure this type of lighting is placed at a safe distance from all artwork. You may also want to use UV filters as an extra precaution. 3. Incandescent lights have long been a traditional favorite for lighting art because of the warmglow they cast. However, experts advise choosing warm- toned LED lighting instead. This option gives you ambience and efficiency. (LED lights are extremely flexible and can also be set to cool temperatures.) The Correct Height for Hanging There is no one correct height at which a painting should be hung.
Contemplate the furniture and accent pieces already in each room and the room’s overall vibe. A lighthearted watercolor or photograph taken at the beach, for example, might look out of place in a room filled with dark wood trim and low lighting. The mood of the image should match the atmosphere of the room so you come away with a cohesive and effortless look. Of course, there are more practical considerations you must take into account before you strike the first nail. Your First Priority: Protecting Your Artwork While it’s important to hang your art and photographs in well-lit areas, you should also protect them from light that could fade brilliant colors or cause the materials themselves to degrade over time. Experts recommend taking the following precautions to protect your images from damage caused by excessive heat and harsh light sources: 1. To minimize the risk of fading, do not display artwork where it will be exposed to direct sunlight.
Accent Lighting Options
When lighting artwork, your goal should be to illuminate the piece andmake it a focal point. To achieve this, showcase your painting in a safe form of light that is three times brighter than the regular lighting in the room.
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