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W E A T H E R T H E S T O R M
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

After a storm, the aftermath can bring new challenges
like standing water, open homes, and power outages. To
address these issues:
Dear Storm,
Uncover items wrapped in plastic to allow them to
Hurricanes, with their unpredictable nature, can bring strong aerate.
winds and high water levels. Our region has faced its share of Ideally, relocate items to a space with air
storms over the years. Generally, newer homes and high-rise conditioning promptly.
condos equipped with impact glass and raised from street Prolonged exposure to humidity, water damage, and
level can safeguard artwork effectively. However, there are punctures can cause damage.
precautions you can take before and after a hurricane to The canvas may expand in humid conditions, leading
protect art pieces: to cracking when exposed to sudden air
The best approach is to relocate artwork from the conditioning.
predicted path of the storm. If you have access to an Professional restoration services can address most
offsite storage facility, consider moving the art to a safe concerns.
location away from coastal or flood-prone areas, For valuable pieces, seek out fine art conservation
preferably above the ground floor. firms specializing in museum-quality restoration.
If evacuation by car is necessary, wrap highly valuable or
sentimental pieces in thick towels or blankets and take Additionally:
them with you. Exercise caution when purchasing art that may have
In situations where immediate relocation isn't feasible been storm-damaged.
due to sudden changes in hurricane paths, there are Some dishonest sellers might attempt to offload
alternative methods to safeguard art within your home. damaged artwork without proper restoration.
Ensure that art pieces are securely hung on walls. Be vigilant when buying art at auctions, particularly
Consider moving valuable pieces to interior rooms, if you cannot inspect it in person.
keeping them elevated from the floor, especially if you Check for water damage, recent reframing, mold,
reside on the ground level. mildew, or fungus on the backs of canvases and
Additionally, if available, use plastic sheeting from hardware works.
stores to wrap the artwork. Seal the wrapping like a gift using Ultimately, while saving lives is paramount, we
heavy packing tape to prevent moisture damage. appreciate your desire to preserve your art.

22 Life in Naples