Bringing home a new piece of art is exciting. But living in the UAE means your art faces conditions most guides don’t mention: intense sunlight, coastal humidity, dust, and air conditioning that runs almost all year. The good news is that a few simple habits can keep your paintings, sculptures, and pottery looking beautiful for decades.

Keep art out of direct sunlight

The sun here is strong, and UV light is one of the biggest threats to artwork. Over time, it fades pigments, yellows paper, and can weaken canvas. A painting hung opposite a large west-facing window may look noticeably duller within a few years.

Choose walls that don’t receive direct sun, especially in the afternoon. If a sunny spot is the only option, consider UV-filtering glass or acrylic for framed works, and use sheer curtains or window film during the hottest hours.

Watch out for humidity

In coastal cities like Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, humidity can climb high, particularly in summer. Moisture can cause canvas to slacken, paper to ripple, and, in the worst cases, mould to grow behind frames.

Avoid hanging art in bathrooms, kitchens, or near laundry areas. Leave a small gap between the frame and the wall so air can circulate, and check the back of framed pieces occasionally for any signs of damp.

Be careful with air conditioning

AC keeps us comfortable, but it can be hard on art. Cold air blowing directly onto a painting dries it out, while sudden shifts between cool interiors and hot, humid air can make materials expand and contract. Over time, this can lead to cracking in paint or warping in wood.

Never hang artwork directly above or in front of an AC vent. Try to keep rooms at a steady temperature rather than switching between extremes, especially in homes that are closed up during long summer trips.

Deal with dust gently

Dust is a fact of life in the region, and it settles on everything. For paintings, use a soft, dry brush or a clean microfibre cloth and dust lightly. Never use water, sprays, or household cleaners on a canvas surface.

For framed works behind glass, spray glass cleaner onto a cloth first, never directly onto the glass, so it doesn’t seep under the frame.

Caring for sculpture and pottery

Three-dimensional pieces need their own care. Dust ceramics and pottery with a soft brush, and for glazed pieces, an occasional wipe with a slightly damp cloth is usually fine. Unglazed or raw clay should stay dry, since it can absorb moisture and stains.

Place sculptures and pottery on stable surfaces away from busy walkways, and out of reach of curious children and pets. For outdoor sculpture, check with the seller whether the material is suitable for full sun and heat, as some finishes fade or crack outside.

Handle with care

When moving art, hold paintings by the sides of the frame, never by the top edge or the wire. Lift sculptures from their base rather than from extended parts. And if you’re moving house, wrap pieces properly, ideally with corner protectors and bubble wrap, keeping plastic from touching the painted surface directly.

Store art the right way

If you need to store artwork, find a cool, dry, dark space inside the home. Avoid storerooms, garages, or balconies, which heat up dramatically in summer. Store paintings upright rather than flat, and separate them with cardboard so surfaces don’t touch.

When to call a professional

If you notice flaking paint, mould, deep cracks, or water damage, resist the urge to fix it yourself. A professional conservator can often repair problems that home remedies would make worse.

A little care goes a long way

Art is meant to be lived with, not locked away. With the right spot on the wall and a few easy habits, the pieces you love can stay vibrant through every summer and be enjoyed for years to come.

At NUQT, we’re happy to share care advice for any piece you buy from us. Explore paintings, sculpture, pottery, and unique décor at nuqt.ae.

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