Unpacking Guidelines

When you receive your artwork, is it important that you take care when unpacking the piece to avoid causing any damage. Below we are providing you with some tips on unpacking works: 

General tips:

• Always wash and dry your hands before handling an artwork.
• Open the package on a flat, clean, and clear surface (free of pens, pencils, scissors, water, food, etc) to ensure nothing transfers to or damages the artwork
• When opening a package or removing tape, avoid cutting directly into the package, which might scratch or cut the artwork. Instead, gently insert the box cutter at an angle that creates an opening without hitting lower layers
• After removing tape or adhesive, remove them from your working area, so nothing sticks to the artwork
• When opening packing materials that directly touch the artwork, work slowly to avoid bending corners or scratching the surface

Unpacking a tube: 

• Remove one end and slightly tip the tube to partially slide the artwork out
• Avoid grabbing or pinching the artwork as this could crease, dent, or tear the paper
• If you need to tighten the coil to remove the work, do so slowly and gently. If there is packing paper, grab this instead of the artwork
• To flatten the artwork, heavy, clean objects can be placed on the corners. If possible, leave a piece of clean, inkless packing paper between the objects and the artwork to avoid damage during flattening

Please contact protection@artsy.net if you have any questions regarding unpacking your artwork, we are happy to help.