How to Protect and Preserve Your Original Artwork

Thank you for collecting original art from The Urban Narrative. Each piece is a hand-painted work in oil and acrylic on gallery-grade canvas, created to live with you for decades. This guide covers how to unpack, frame, hang, and care for your modern abstract paintings so they remain as refined as the day they arrive.

Border & Framing Information

• All rolled artworks include a 5cm white border around the painting to allow for flexible stretching options.
  
  
• If you require a larger border (for a specific frame profile or oversized wrap), please contact us after placing your order. Additional space can often be accommodated if requested before the painting process begins.

Unpacking & Handling

• Each painting is fully dried, sealed, and shipped rolled in a protective inner layer and sturdy cardboard tube.
  
  
• Always handle your artwork with clean, dry hands and place it on a clean, smooth surface when unrolling.
  
  
• void sharp objects, textured fabrics, or rough tabletops that could catch raised paint or edges.
  
  
• Do not leave your painting rolled up for extended periods of time, especially in warm or humid environments, as pressure and condensation can disturb the surface. We recommend unwrapping your artwork within 24-48 hours of delivery.
  

 
Storage Before Framing

• If you are not framing your painting immediately, store it unrolled or loosely rolled in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight, moisture, or heat sources.
  
  
• While our paintings are highly resilient once stretched or framed and hung on the wall, they are more vulnerable when tightly rolled in a hot or humid setting.
  
  
• Avoid basements, bathrooms, or areas with constantly fluctuating temperature and humidity, as these conditions can cause canvas tension changes over time.

Framing & Display Recommendations

• Professional framing is recommended, especially in hotter or humid climates. A quality framer can stretch your canvas and, if desired, add UV-protective glazing to help protect against light and environmental changes.
  
  
• Avoid hanging your artwork in direct sunlight. Even with premium pigments and finishes, prolonged exposure to harsh light can cause fading or discoloration over many years.
  
  
• Do not hang paintings outdoors or in semi-exposed areas (covered patios, above fireplaces, directly over radiators or vents), or in consistently damp spaces unless they are properly protected. Heat, humidity, smoke, and steam can all affect the canvas and paint surface over time.

If you wish to hang art in a bathroom, make sure the painting is fully sealed behind glass or acrylic in a well-ventilated space, and avoid placing it where it will receive direct steam from the shower.

Cleaning and Ongoing Care for your Painting

• Avoid contact with water, sprays, household cleaners, or polishes. These can mark or dull the surface of the paint and varnish.
  
  
• To dust the surface, gently use a soft, dry cloth or a clean, soft-haired artist’s brush, brushing lightly in one direction. Do not rub, scrub, or use feather dusters, as they can catch on textured paint.
  
  
• If you notice slight curling at the edges before stretching, this is normal. The stretching process will correct it.
  
  
• If you ever see flaking, deep scratches, or signs of water damage, avoid cleaning attempts and consult a professional art conservator or framer.
  
  

Still Need Help?

If you’re unsure about any part of unpacking, stretching, or framing your painting, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to contact our team or use our Curator Art Preview & Custom Sizing service for tailored guidance on how best to display and protect your new artwork.