How to Protect and Conserve an Acrylic Painting

Whether you are an artist or a collector providing optimal protection for your painting guarantees the best possible conservation.

Some artists choose varnish. However, others choose not to, as was the case with many impressionists to keep a more natural aspect to their paintings.

Landscape painter Jonathan Marsico indicates that varnish brings a lot of advantages. The painter shares these advantages below.

 

Standardization of shine

Jonathan Marsico shares that the varnish differs between shiny areas and matt areas, inherent in the execution of a painting, which engages the viewer in a significant way. The varnish will even out the shine.

 

Color enhancement

After applying the varnish, Jonathan Marsico shares that the colors gain in saturation.

 

Oil painting appearance

This is the best way to make an acrylic painting look like an oil painting.

 

Protection against contamination

Acrylic is still soft on the surface, so it retains dust. In addition, dust becomes embedded in the micro-pores specific to acrylic. The varnish will clog pores, and it harder surface allows dust to slip off.

Once the varnish is dirty, it can be removed using a specific product, in order to apply a fresh coat. As is possible, Jonathan Marsico recommends using a removable version.

 

Protection against excess temperatures

The varnish protects the acrylic from extreme temperatures, which can be reached very quickly.

 

UV protection

According to Jonathan Marsico some varnishes contain a UVLS stabilizer that protects the paint from ultraviolet rays.

For more tips about painting, read the blog of this painter.