Longevity of Materials
I paint on watercolor on 140 pound cold pressed Arches watercolor paper that I wet and wrap around a ready-made oil/acrylic canvas that is covered with gesso. The canvas serves as an added protection underneath the paper, This installation was recommended to me by two museum conservators. I secure the paper by stapling it to the wood on the back of the frame. Providing a sculptural look, these paintings are beautifully visible without glass and are quite durable. They can be dusted easily with a clean, soft, dry rag. They should be hung away from steam, food and bright light. I make a point of using high quality watercolor pigments that hold their color well over time. Watercolor paints are now light-fast, which means that they do not fade easily in the light. However, when my artworks are hung away from direct light, they will last for a lifetime. With strong contrasts, my original artworks look great in indirect light, showing delicate nuances of form.