Cleaning an oil painting

Russell McKane demonstrates how to clean an oil painting.
I have a painting of mine that had been wrapped in a blanket and had a layer of dust and hairs stuck to the surface. The painting is twenty years old and I need to get it ready for an exhibition. I show you a simple way to clean the work without damaging the painting.

As with all how to videos, always proceed with caution. Test a small area on the edge to make sure the surface is not something else. If in doubt ask someone to check it out. This is for oil paintings only, as I don't work in acrylics I can't comment on these as I have no experience. I have been painting in oil paint for 50 years and have cleaned my own paintings many times without problem. If you are not sure if it is an oil painting then take it to your local picture framer they should be able to tell you which it is and may also be able to point to someone with further experience. It the painting is obviously old, damaged or cracked, I suggest you contact an art conservator for advise.

I didn't say this in the video but paintings can be dusted with a light feather duster - worth doing first if the dust is surface and not imbedded in the surface.

In the video I refer to my cleaning agent as strong - no it is a mild detergent - I meant concentrated so only used a few drops. I use Amway's LOC with is a phosphate free natural cleaner. Make sure you don't choose one that has bleaches, - whiting power - (read oxygen bleaches) or other brighter cleaner claims. If in doubt a simple soap - (yellow - Sunlight brand in Australia) would be better. but keep suds to minimum. remember just a little - that way you wont need to do a rinse to clean off soap scum. Definitely don't use a sugar soap.

Check out my website www.russellmckane.com for details on this painting and others - at the time of publication this painting is still for sale. I did decide to give it a varnish. The how to video will be posted here shortly. It is now looking spectacular once again.
I will add a blog on my site - go to story Tab on this where I will but more details. https://russellmckane.com/stories-blog/