How to Prevent Wall Art from Fading
UV, Light and Humidity Guide
How to Prevent Wall Art from Fading — UV, Light and Humidity Guide
Nothing is more disappointing than a beloved art print that fades or yellows. The good news: fading is almost always preventable. The threats to your art — UV radiation, humidity, incorrect storage — are all manageable with the right knowledge and simple precautions.
At Olive et Oriel, we produce prints using archival pigment inks specifically chosen for their superior UV resistance. But even the best production benefits from informed care after purchase.
UV Light — The Primary Threat
UV radiation is the single biggest cause of art print fading. Pigment-based inks (which we use at Olive et Oriel) are significantly more UV-resistant than dye-based inks found in standard inkjet prints — but even archival pigment inks will degrade under prolonged direct UV exposure.
The most effective protection against UV fading is UV-protective framing. Glass or acrylic with UV filtering dramatically extends the life of displayed prints. North-facing rooms in Australia receive the most intense afternoon sun — be particularly vigilant about art placement in these spaces.
Learn About Our Archival ProcessHumidity, Temperature and Display Positioning
Avoid positioning art in direct sunbeams — even brief daily exposure to direct sun can cause visible fading within a few years. If you can't avoid a sunny position, UV-protective framing is even more critical.
Fluctuating humidity causes fine art paper to expand and contract. Over time, this creates waviness, and stresses any UV-protective coatings on the print surface. Aim for consistent conditions (40-60% relative humidity) in rooms where art is displayed.
Position art away from direct sunbeams, heating vents, and high-humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchen walls near steam). The ideal display environment is a climate-controlled interior room with indirect natural light. Our prints are produced with archival pigment inks rated for well over 100 years under proper display conditions.
The Right Display Environment for Art
Temperature fluctuations are less damaging than humidity fluctuations, but very hot environments can accelerate ink degradation. Keep art away from heating vents, radiators, and other direct heat sources.
Our prints are produced with archival pigment inks on quality substrates — the right environment is all they need to last a lifetime.
Every piece is produced at our two manufacturing facilities on of NSW — crafting Australian wall art since 2015. We deliver to over 40 countries worldwide, with custom sizing available on all prints. Over a decade of experience, every order ships within 24 hours with our satisfaction guarantee.
What is the main cause of art print fading?
UV radiation is the primary cause. Pigment-based inks (used in archival giclée printing) are significantly more UV-resistant than standard dye-based inks, but even archival prints benefit from UV-protective framing.
How do I know if my frames have UV-protective glass?
Look for product descriptions that mention UV protection or conservation glass. Olive et Oriel frames include UV-protective acrylic as standard.
Does indirect sunlight fade art prints?
Indirect sunlight contains some UV radiation and will cause fading over long time periods. UV-protective framing is recommended for any position that receives significant daylight.
How do I prevent humidity from damaging art?
Aim for 40-60% relative humidity in rooms where art is displayed. Avoid hanging art in bathrooms, over dishwashers, or on exterior walls prone to condensation.
What is the best position for displaying art prints?
A climate-controlled interior room with indirect natural light and stable temperature and humidity. Avoid direct sunbeams, heating vents, and areas prone to humidity fluctuation.
Are Olive et Oriel prints resistant to fading?
Our prints are produced with archival pigment inks on quality substrates, rated for well over 100 years when properly displayed. UV-protective framing further extends their longevity.
