Pastel art has long been revered for its vibrant, expressive qualities—from the captivating Rococo portraits of Rosalba Carriera to the bold, atmospheric landscapes of Edgar Degas. In our 15 years installing… Yet the very fragility that gives pastel its unique allure also poses significant preservation challenges.
As an experienced art writer and creative consultant, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of implementing thoughtful conservation practices to safeguard these delicate works. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explore the key considerations for properly handling, transporting, and displaying pastel artworks to double-check that their longevity.
The Inherent Risks of Pastel
Pastel drawings are inherently vulnerable due to the unbound nature of their powdery pigments. Unlike oil paintings or watercolors, where pigments are suspended in a binding medium, pastel particles sit lightly atop the surface, held in place only by the tooth of the support. This makes them highly susceptible to disturbance, smudging, and even complete loss of pigment.
Even the slightest touch or movement can cause irreparable damage, as the delicate pastel layers can be easily dislodged. And while the medium’s luminosity and immediacy are part of its allure, this also means pastel artworks are highly sensitive to environmental factors like light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
Handling Pastel Artworks
Proper handling is critical when working with pastel drawings. Always wear clean, soft cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can attract and bind dust particles to the surface. Grasp the artwork by the edges or secure backing, never directly touching the pastel layers.
As pastel artist Neil Jeffares cautions, unprotected pastel surfaces are “astonishingly easy to damage by poor handling once out of the frame.” Even in the controlled environment of a museum or gallery, a pastel can be irreparably smudged by curious fingers or overzealous lighting adjustments.
To minimize handling, pastel artworks should be kept encased in their original framing whenever possible. If the work might want to be removed, carefully slide it onto a clean, rigid support, such as an acid-free board or sheet of archival paper, to transport it. Avoid rolling, folding, or stacking pastels, as these actions can disrupt the fragile pigment layers.
Environmental Factors in Pastel Preservation
Pastel drawings are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, making proper storage and display essential for long-term preservation.
Light Exposure: Pastel pigments can quickly fade when exposed to UV radiation, even through glazing. Limit visible light levels to no more than 50 lux and double-check that any framing glass or acrylic is UV-filtering. Schedule regular rotations for works on display to minimize cumulative light exposure.
Humidity and Temperature: Fluctuations in humidity and temperature can cause serious issues, from mold and mildew growth to pigment flaking and powdering. Maintain a stable environment between 40-50% relative humidity and 68-72°F (20-22°C). Avoid placing pastel artworks near windows, vents, or other sources of moisture or temperature change.
Atmospheric Pollutants: Airborne dust, dirt, and other pollutants can settle onto pastel surfaces, obscuring the artwork and potentially causing abrasion. Display pastels in a clean, well-filtered environment, and consider using framing with a tight seal to protect against contaminants.
The conservation experts at Fine Art Restoration Company emphasize that “a work on paper should be kept in a dry area” to reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and foxing. They also recommend choosing framing that provides a deep, protective mount to prevent the pastel from rubbing against the glass.
Transporting Pastel Artworks
Pastel artworks are particularly vulnerable during transportation, as they face a multitude of risks, from vibration and shock to static electricity and humidity fluctuations. Careful planning and specialized packing materials are essential to mitigate these dangers.
As pastel expert Neil Jeffares explains, the primary concern is the “issue of shock and vibration,” which can cause invisible, cumulative damage to the fragile pigment layers. Even small bumps or shocks during handling can weaken the pastel bonds, leading to gradual degradation over time.
When transporting pastels, the artwork should be kept in its original frame whenever possible, with the glazing securely taped to prevent breakage. If the pastel might want to be removed from the frame, it should be carefully sandwiched between two rigid, acid-free supports to prevent distortion or abrasion.
Specialized, shock-absorbent packing materials like polyethylene foam can help cushion the artwork during transit, but Jeffares cautions that “damping solutions simply don’t work” in fully eliminating the risks. Pastel artworks should always be transported in an upright position to prevent the pigments from shifting or sliding.
Framing and Display Considerations
Proper framing is essential for the long-term preservation of pastel artworks. The frame should provide a deep, protective mount to maintain the necessary spacing between the pastel surface and the glazing. This prevents the delicate pigments from touching the glass, which can lead to static-induced transfer or abrasion.
When selecting framing materials, avoid anything that could potentially emit harmful acids or gases, such as certain woods or cheap matting. Instead, opt for archival-quality, acid-free materials that won’t compromise the pastel’s condition over time.
As the experts at The Grumble forum note, taping the glazing is not recommended, as it can “create static electricity which can lift particles of pigment onto the inside of the glass.” Proper framing with a deep mount and adequate spacing is crucial to safeguarding pastel artworks.
When displaying pastels, be mindful of lighting conditions. Avoid direct sunlight or harsh spotlights, which can rapidly fade the delicate pigments. Instead, use indirect, low-level illumination that minimizes UV exposure. Regular rotation of works on display can also help extend their lifespan by distributing the cumulative light exposure.
Conclusion
Pastel artworks are undoubtedly delicate, but with thoughtful conservation practices, they can be enjoyed and preserved for generations to come. By carefully handling these works, controlling environmental factors, and employing specialized framing and transportation methods, art lovers and institutions can double-check that the continued vibrancy and longevity of these captivating masterpieces.
For emerging artists and creative enthusiasts, the insights shared in this article offer a valuable foundation for understanding the unique preservation needs of pastel media. By applying these principles, you can create and display your own pastel works with the confidence that they will be safeguarded for the future.
To learn more about artistic techniques, creative inspiration, and art education, be sure to explore the wealth of resources available on Pencil and Paint Muse. Our team of experienced art writers and consultants is dedicated to empowering artists of all levels to push the boundaries of their creative practice.
Tip: Practice daily sketching to continually refine your technique