We have already talked about variations in air humidity, temperature and inadequate lighting as great enemies of an art collection. But there are other risk factors to watch out for, particularly with regard to the artworks kept in storage: urban pests.
Insects such as termites, beetles, moths and the so-called booklice feed on the organic matter often present in artworks, such as wooden sculptures and frames, paper, fabric canvases and even some types of paint.
The little creatures leave visible signs: termites open small holes in the wood to start new colonies and produce small granules that fall from the piece and form a kind of coarse dust. The presence of insect wings in the room may also indicate that a pair has made its home nearby.
Wood-boring beetles also leave holes in book covers, while moths can be identified both by their conspicuous presence in damp, poorly lit places and by the damage to clothing, especially silk and wool garments.
How to prevent pest infestation in artworks?
Frequent observation is precisely one of the ways of controlling and preventing infestations that can leave irreversible damage to artworks. When acquiring a new piece, it is advisable to examine it closely in order to identify the presence of pests that could contaminate the rest of the collection.
The risk is greater when it comes to pieces stored out of sight – especially when they are kept in unsuitable places. In addition to frequent cleaning, maintaining environmental conditions that are unfavourable to the spread of pests is one of the most effective forms of prevention.
Sealed spaces, with no gaps or openings through which insects can enter, temperature varying only between 18 °C and 22 °C, plus relative humidity always kept between 45% and 55%, are the ideal conservation conditions, used by museums as well.
Using private fine art storage
In Brazil, Clé Reserva Contemporânea is the only company specialising in the storage of artworks that keeps its warehouse 100% climate-controlled all year round, to the environmental standards recommended internationally. In addition, the space has 24×7 security and fire prevention systems, making it the ideal place to keep private collections.
The storage solutions available include renting private spaces from 25 m² upwards or smaller spaces in the shared area. Whichever option is chosen, all artworks are kept in ideal climate-control conditions.
Talk to one of our specialists.
