Lifting

Lifting

Definition: Lifting refers to the condition in which parts of a print, photograph, or mounted artwork begin to separate or peel away from their surface, substrate, or backing. This often occurs as a result of adhesive failure, fluctuations in humidity, improper mounting techniques, or the natural aging of materials. Lifting not only compromises the appearance of the artwork but may also accelerate further damage if left untreated.

Causes

• Adhesive Failure: Poor-quality or deteriorating adhesives can lose tack over time, causing the artwork to detach.
• Humidity Fluctuations: Changes in relative humidity can cause paper and adhesives to expand and contract unevenly, weakening bonds.
• Improper Mounting: Using non-archival adhesives or techniques can increase the risk of lifting.
• Aging Materials: As prints, canvases, and adhesives age, structural stability decreases, leading to peeling or separation.

Consequences

• Visual Damage: Raised edges or curled sections detract from the presentation and may cast shadows or distort the artwork.
• Structural Instability: Once lifting begins, additional sections are more likely to peel away.
• Increased Vulnerability: Lifting makes the artwork more susceptible to physical damage, dust accumulation, and moisture infiltration.

Preventive Measures

• Use archival adhesives and mounting methods approved for conservation.
• Maintain stable environmental conditions, ideally 40-55% relative humidity and 65-75°F.
• Avoid mounting methods that cannot be reversed, particularly for valuable or historic works.
• Inspect framed artworks regularly for early signs of lifting or detachment.

Treatment

• Conservation Intervention: A paper conservator may reattach lifting areas using conservation-grade adhesives such as wheat starch paste.
• Re-Mounting: In severe cases, artwork may need to be carefully removed and remounted using reversible, archival techniques.
• Humidity Chambers: Controlled humidification can sometimes relax distorted areas before reattachment.

Related Terms

• Flaking
• Delamination
• Bulge
• Blister