Artcare - Auckland Art Gallery

Packing / Handlingpacking paintings with a rigid support12345a side-loading crate (thedepth of drawer or tray isdetermined by the safeclearance of the packedframe inside): drawers areremoved from the topeach drawer runs off thelower carcase: a wideside wall ensures ease ofmovementa foam base and lidto dampen vibrationpacking paintings on canvas and wooden stretcherif funds do not allowtransport framing forindividual works,inidividual boxing ofeach painting can providea good alternative:boxes then slide intoa side-loading cratecare of the package should be included, for example ‘thisway up’, ‘keep under cover’, ‘fragile’ or ‘glass’.Packing Paintings With a Rigid Support—Board orWooden PanelIf the frames have a variety of moulding and sizes thenthe method of strapping to a uniform size of shallow trayis a safe solution. This method can be used to packglazed works for the same reason, as well as works onpaper that have been ‘floated’ in their mounts (wherethe edge of the work is visible and it is more likely tomove around during transportation). But it is not recommendedfor paintings on canvas and stretchersbecause of the flexibility of the support.Packing Stretched Paintings on CanvasIdeally, when transporting an exhibition of paintings ofdifferent dimensions and frame mouldings, the paintingsshould be inserted in travelling frames which will accommodatea variation of size and depth. These can then befitted in their correct vertical position into a custommadecrate.Because the canvas is very flexible it is preferableto keep easel paintings in their normal hanging positionto avoid any stress on the paint surface. Individualworks can also be packed in travelling frames, particularlyif they are unframed or have delicate surfaces.Otherwise it is possible to pack them into a crate withcompact foam (Evazote, Ethafoam or polyurethanefoam) holding the frame firmly in position. Nothingshould touch the painting itself.There should be no loose parts in the assembly ofpicture and frame. Any heavy wire, chains and hooks onthe reverse of the painting should be removed. If apainting is glazed, the glass should be taped with maskingtape from edge to edge. The tape should cover muchof the glass and run both horizontally and vertically.Avoid tacks or nails during packing. Box tops shouldbe attached with screws to avoid shock, vibration andaccidents.59