Ask Sam #9: The Longevity of an Acrylic Painting

Q. How long will a painting last?

A. The best way to answer this question is to begin by highlighting two extremely important factors:

1. “The best way to asses the durability of paints is to evaluate them in the actual service in the field.” Professor Frank N. Jones

2. Acrylic paints have a relatively short history: 50 – 70 years as opposed to 500 year history in oils.

Considering both of these factors, science and the fact that the vast majority of acrylic paintings since the introduction of acrylics have been holding up well, it is suggested that acrylics will prove to be more durable than oils. In summary, you’re looking at 500 plus years.

Read more about the longevity of paint: http://www.goldenpaints.com/justpaint/jp12article1.php

For more Ask Sam click here.