Heat and humidity are part of everyday life in Malaysia, and they can be hard on paper over time. A few simple habits will keep your framed prints looking their best for years.
Mind the sunlight
Direct afternoon sun can fade inks gradually, even on archival prints. Hang your favourite pieces on walls that get indirect light, or draw sheer curtains during the brightest part of the day. Landscapes such as Rolling Hills look lovely in soft, diffused light anyway.
Keep air moving
Prints like steady conditions. Avoid hanging art directly above a dehumidifier outlet, an air-conditioner unit or a stove, where temperature and moisture swing quickly. A room with a fan or regular air-conditioning is usually a good home for framed work.
Give the frame a little space
The small bumpers on the back of every Ochre frame hold it a few millimetres off the wall. That gap lets air circulate and helps prevent moisture building up behind the print, which is especially useful on external walls.
Bathrooms and kitchens
Steam is the main concern in these rooms. If you would like art in a bathroom, choose a spot away from the shower and make sure the room is well ventilated. In the kitchen, keep pieces like Pears & Pitcher away from the hob.
Cleaning
Dust frames and glazing with a soft, dry cloth. If the glazing needs more, use a slightly damp cloth and dry it straight away. Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the frame, as liquid can seep behind the glazing.
Spotting trouble early
If you notice spots, waves in the paper or condensation inside the frame, move the piece to a drier room and let it settle. These tips are general guidance; for valuable or sentimental artwork, a professional framer or conservator can give advice for your specific piece.
