You've finally found that perfect painting. But did you know that sunlight —and especially UV rays —can damage your artwork over time? Discoloration, fading, and even material deterioration can occur if your painting is left unprotected in direct sunlight.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this. In this blog post, you'll discover how to keep your paintings looking beautiful, which material is most resistant to UV rays, and where to hang your art.
Why is sunlight harmful to paintings?
Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation , which damages dyes in inks and pigments. This process is called photodegradation . The consequences:
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Colors fade or turn yellowish
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Paper or canvas becomes brittle
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Metal or plexiglass can discolour or become dull
It's often a slow, but irreversible process. Especially in rooms with large windows or plenty of daylight, protection is essential.
Which material is most resistant to sunlight?
At Ravinci.nl we sell paintings on four different materials. Each material reacts differently to sunlight:
| Material | UV resistant? | Tip for sunny spaces |
|---|---|---|
| Canvas | ❌ Less file | Hang out of direct sunlight |
| Poster | ❌ Sensitive | Use UV-resistant frame |
| Plexiglass | ✅ Good file | Ideal for bright spaces |
| Metal | ✅ Very good file | Perfect for sunny walls |
🟢 Plexiglass and metal are the safest choices for brightly lit spaces. Canvas and posters require more protection.
Smart hanging = smart protection
Choose a place where the painting is not directly exposed to sunlight:
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Avoid walls opposite south-facing windows
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Use light-blocking curtains or blinds
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Alternate art in seasons with lots of sunlight (spring/summer)
A painting that receives indirect light stays beautiful for longer – and you preserve the atmosphere of your interior.
Extra protection: UV coating & glass
Want extra security? Here are some additional measures:
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UV-resistant spray (for canvas or posters)
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Plexiglass with UV filter (for photo prints)
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Frames with UV-protective glass (for posters)
Note: Not every standard frame offers UV protection. Choose wisely or ask about it when purchasing.
Maintenance and cleaning tips
Sunlight combined with dust can accelerate the deterioration of the quality. Regular cleaning helps:
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Canvas : Dust gently with a dry cloth
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Plexiglass : microfiber cloth + antistatic spray
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Metal : slightly damp cloth without cleaning agents
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Framed posters : clean the glass with glass cleaner on the outside
Do not use aggressive cleaning agents – this will actually accelerate discolouration.
✅ Conclusion: smart hanging means longer enjoyment
A painting is an investment in ambiance. By consciously managing sunlight and choosing the right material, you can enjoy your wall art for years to come. Choose UV-resistant materials like plexiglass or metal if you want to display your art in a bright spot – or give canvas and posters extra protection with the right frame or spray.