ARTWORK CARE

Like any newly-painted work in oils, final “curing” can take up to a year. A painting in oil and cold wax medium is no different. Curing time will depend on many factors such as the thickness of the paint and the atmosphere where the painting is hung. While the painting will feel dry to the touch, the surface must be treated with care for quite some time, so please avoid sharp objects such as fingernails near the surface. Once fully cured the painting will be robust, waterproof, and need little attention apart from the occasional dusting with a soft cloth.

  • Please keep away from direct sunlight exposure

  • Clean with a soft microfiber cloth

  • Avoid direct contact with glass or plastic

  • Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with me at vincent@vincentalainart.com.

WHAT IS COLD WAX MEDIUM?

Cold Wax Medium is a mixture of natural beeswax (wax pastilles), Gamsol (Ordorless Mineral Spirits), and a small amount of alkyd resin. The term “cold” in Cold Wax Medium and Cold Wax Painting refers to the fact that heat is not required for working with this wax medium – as it dries by solvent evaporation (Gamsol), rather than the cooling of the wax, as in encaustic painting. As the Gamsol evaporates out of the medium, the soft wax hardens to the density of a beeswax candle.

Unlike other painting mediums, which increase the flow and gloss of oil colors to varying degrees, Cold Wax Medium makes oil colors thicker and more matte.

IS THE ARTWORK ARCHIVAL?

Oil paintings have lasted for hundreds of years and withstand the test of time. Over time, your original oil painting may require professional cleaning and restoration and I recommend contacting a professional conservator for assistance. Critical to the survival of the painting and to conserve the integrity of the artwork. These paintings can be passed down for many generations with minor care and consideration.

Most of my paintings have visual & physical texture elements. While natural to touch these physical textures, I would refrain from touching the painting with the oils from your hands. As the artwork ages the paint layers will oxidize and further harden into a cohesive layer.

WHAT IS THE PAPER?

For the littles collection the paper is Arches Oil Paper 300 g/m2 - 140 lbs. Arches is one of the oldest paper manufacturers in the world and was founded in 1492. Arches Oil Paper is specifically formulated to be used without any preparation. Ready to use / no need to gesso. And is completed acid free for archival purposes.

WHAT IS THE WOOD PANEL?

All wood panels are a premium select 4 mm solid basswood surface braced by a solid basswood cradle. We've chosen basswood (also known as linden) for its fine, uniform characteristics, limited wood grain, and proven stability over time. Each panel is precision-crafted, meticulously sanded on all sides, and ready to prime with the ground of your choice.

They are sealed from the moisture, humidity, and environment with GAC 100 created by Golden Paints. This will ensure no moisture absorption, warping, staining or discoloring in the wood. The actual paint layer sits upon a double-coated gesso layer to ensure proper support and adhesion.