Protecting Gallery Wraps

The need to protect gallery wraps and has come due to the fact that they do not have frames. In the past, nearly all artwork was displayed with frames.

In modern shows and galleries, these frameless paintings and photographs have become more and more popular, making it necessary to find a way to protect them from the dangers that pop up when there is no frame. To figure this out, we must first start with the differences in the construction of the canvases.

Previously, canvases were stretched over thin, wooden strips called stretcher bars and stapled or tacked on the sides. After the painting was completed, it would be framed. This frame served several purposes. It gave the painting a finished look. It protected the edges of the painting. And it covered the staples or tacks.

Today, thicker stretcher bars measuring one and one quarter to two inches are used. The canvas is then stretched around these bars and the staples or tacks are positioned on the back side. To complete the canvas, the back can be covered with framing paper and fitted with metal hangers and corner bumpers or it can simply be fitted with a wire hanger. This allows the painting to be hung on the wall without a frame and without showing the staples or tacks. It also gives it a 3D look when hung on the wall.

This style has become very popular with galleries and other retail venues looking to sell artwork. It eliminates their need to choose and purchase expensive frames which may or may not resonate with the prospective customer. This reduces the costs which is always welcome.

A frameless painting still needs to be safeguarded from danger. Unprotected corners can become damaged easily. Without a frame, it is more likely that the canvas will suffer scratches, scuff marks and cracks. And, like its framed counterpart, it is vulnerable to U. V. Rays and other environmental hazards.

In order to prevent airborne pollutants including fumes from cleaning solutions and tobacco smoke from penetrating the artwork, a coat of laminate can be applied to the surface. The lamination will also deter cracks, scuffs and scratches, protect the corners and block U.V.rays and other harmful elements in the atmosphere such as hydrocarbons and ozone.

Whether the work of art is a painting, a photograph or a print, there are several composition and options from which you can choose.

Polyester, polycarbonate, copolymer and vinyl are some of the composition choices. Finishes can be matte, gloss luster or velvet. Each of the options has different characteristics allowing you to select the one which best fits your needs.

You can decide to do the work yourself or have it done by an experienced professional. Companies specializing in applying laminates are easily found in the art world. No matter which you choose, to protect your investment, you must protect gallery wraps.