Online Paintings

Art Tips 151 to 160

Art Tip 151: Bring Light to your Paintings

Most people are unaware of how humidity and extreme temperature changes can quickly damage paintings . When bringing to light your artworks it is best to use fiber-optic picture lights.

Fiber-optic picture lights are less harmful to a painting compared to track lighting and incandescent lights. Ordinary lights are considered as heat sources that can damage your artworks. Fiber-optic picture

lights should be easily available at your local lighting stores or you can also get them online.

Art Tip 152: Displaying your Paintings

Before hanging your paintings it is a good idea to attach cardboard at the back of them. The cardboard will absorb moisture that would normally attack the back of the painting and thus prolong the life of your artwork.

Be sure to hang your painting by the solid structure of the frame. Check the wall on which you will hang up the painting . Install the hook on the solid construction of the wall to provide full support for the painting.

Art Tip 153: Safekeeping your Paintings

When moving your paintings to a different area, hold the artworks with both hands and never by the hanging wire at the back. For bigger artworks, ask for help in lifting heavy them.

Plan ahead for proper storage space if you plan on storing your artworks for any length of time. Don't deposit your painting pieces in the basement or attic and avoid outdoor u-store-it buildings as heat and

humidity can ruin them. For long-term storage, consider using storage facilities that specialize in art.

Art Tip 154:Temperature for Acrylic Paintings

Acrylic paintings have particular qualities different from oil paintings but also require special care for them to last. Acrylic paints are quick to dry however the water within the paint layers may take

days or even months to completely evaporate.

Constant room temperature of sixty to seventy-five degrees is appropriate for acrylic painting pieces. Extreme temperatures like cold can make the painting stiff and possibly crack as it gets colder. Hot

temperatures can make the painting soft and make it prone to scratches and dust.

Art Tip 155: Printed Faux Veneer Frame

Printed faux veneer frames are the latest trend in custom framing for paintings. These faux frames were developed as an alternative to the rising cost of wood used for a frames.
They are generally inexpensive yet provide a comparable look to the real thing.

A finish is printed onto a special paper and then wrapped around a frame as a veneer. These finishes can be a distinct color, fabric or texture or even a wood grain or stain.

Art Tip 156: Internet Auction Sites for Artworks

The Attorney General's office has created guidelines for art buyers regarding purchases of artworks from Internet auction sites. Confirm the identity of your seller; attempt to consult with others who have

bought paintings from them.

Check the feedback page to read comments left by other buyers. Ask the seller about the artwork especially the painting's history to assess its authenticity. Get a digital copy of the artist's signature from

the painting and try to compare this with an original signature.

Art Tip 157: Patronize Paintings of Living Artists

There are many artists that sell their paintings online. Most of these artists are virtual unknowns but their works are truly inspiring and could someday be masterpieces also. Try looking at a painting of

these unknown artists and you might be surprised at the beauty and profundity of their work.

They are also a great resource for first time art buyers looking for original painting pieces at affordable prices. You never really know who tomorrow's 'Masters' will be right?

Art Tip 158: Buying Paintings

Most artists are willing to negotiate with buyers interested in buying their paintings . After all, artists also live in the real world like you and need to make a living right?

Sometimes you find a painting that you like but it is beyond your budget. Try talking with the artist and discuss possible payment terms for the painting . Keep an open mind and respect the needs of the artist.

Though they have to sell their pieces to earn a living, they work just as hard as everyone else to produce these works of art.

Art Tip 159: Chinese Paintings and those 'Folds'

Each Chinese painting is dated, hand-signed and seal stamped by the artist. Artists provide a certificate of authenticity for each artwork they produce. Most Chinese artists customarily fold their Chinese

paintings after finishing.

These folds are usually visible to some extent due to extended folding where the ink rubs on the creases or the paint flakes off a fold.

Any unusual folds will be noted in the description that often accompanies the painting when purchased.

Art Tip 160: Chinese Paintings - Is its Oriental Appeal for You?

Chinese paintings can be very simple or complicated. The artwork can be focused on s simple bamboo tree or can be a complicated piece depicting Chinese dynasties, war times, zodiac animals and their traits and more! Yes, Chinese artwork can be very varied.

Not everybody appreciates Oriental artworks or want them hanging on their walls so do thing twice if you are thinking of giving one as a gift. If you plan to buy one for your won use, be sure to involve family members in the selection process.

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