Weathering the Storm ask the ARTSPERTS

Dear Artsperts: 

It is hurricane season, what is your best advice for protecting art should a hurricane head our way?
Signed,
Weathering the Storm

Dear Storm,
Hurricanes, with their unpredictable nature, can bring strong winds and high water levels. Our region has faced its share of storms over the years. Generally, newer homes and high-rise condos equipped with impact glass and raised from street level can safeguard artwork effectively. However, there are precautions you can take before and after a hurricane to protect art pieces:

The best approach is to relocate artwork from the predicted path of the storm. If you have access to an offsite storage facility, consider moving the art to a safe location away from coastal or flood-prone areas, preferably above the ground floor.

If evacuation by car is necessary, wrap highly valuable or sentimental pieces in thick towels or blankets and take them with you. In situations where immediate relocation isn’t feasible due to sudden changes in hurricane paths, there are alternative methods to safeguard art within your home. Ensure that art pieces are securely hung on walls. Consider moving valuable pieces to interior rooms, keeping them elevated from the floor, especially if you reside on the ground level.

Additionally, if available, use plastic sheeting from hardware stores to wrap the artwork. Seal the wrapping like a gift using heavy packing tape to prevent moisture damage. After a storm, the aftermath can bring new challenges like standing water, open homes, and power outages.

To address these issues:

Uncover items wrapped in plastic to allow them to aerate.

Ideally, relocate items to a space with air conditioning promptly.

Prolonged exposure to humidity, water damage, and punctures can cause damage.

The canvas may expand in humid conditions, leading to cracking when exposed to sudden air conditioning.

Professional restoration services can address most concerns.

For valuable pieces, seek out fine art conservation firms specializing in museum-quality restoration.

Additionally:
Exercise caution when purchasing art that may have been storm-damaged.

Some dishonest sellers might attempt to offload damaged artwork without proper restoration.

Be vigilant when buying art at auctions, particularly if you cannot inspect it in person.

Check for water damage, recent reframing, mold, mildew, or fungus on the backs of canvases and works.

Ultimately, while saving lives is paramount, we appreciate your desire to preserve your art.

www.harmonmeek.com