By Brittany Fisher, financiallywell.info
There are many reasons why artists and creatives choose to relocate. Maybe you’re looking to downsize to save money, or perhaps you’re moving to a bigger city with a more vibrant arts scene. Regardless of the reasons behind your relocation decision, there are some important considerations that will help you safely transport your artwork and art supplies. Read on for some proven techniques that will help guarantee the safest and least stressful moving experience possible.
Art House, Inc. offers some tips for artists who are planning a big move: Find the Ideal Living Space
Obviously, finding your new home comes first and foremost before your relocation. Beyond your living expenses, carefully consider a property and what it offers for your livelihood. Is there enough space for a studio? Do you have enough natural light? Will your new place require any updates, like new flooring, repainting or window repair or replacement? What about the HVAC system? Remember, you need to keep optimal temperatures in your home to safely store your work. When comparing homes that need updates or repairs, check review sites like Angi to connect with pros to confirm costs so you know what you’re getting into, and to help you negotiate.
Moving Your Work
First, consider the best ways to transport your specific type(s) of artwork and your art supplies. Anyone who has researched a big move before already knows that it can be tough (and even costly) for an artist to relocate their supplies and artwork. From canvasses and sculptures, to art supplies such as paints and kiln ovens, you’ll want to take proper care to ensure a safe move for all items, without damaging or losing anything along the way.
Professional movers recommend that artists (and art collectors) pack any breakable items in heavy-duty boxes whenever possible. This might include items such as fine artwork, large paintings, canvases, glass and mirrors, or any framed artwork. Take extra care to tape the boxes, using masking tape in an “X” shape. This will hopefully prevent any cracking, breaking or shattering.
Odd-shaped pieces of artwork should be wrapped in foam for added padding and protection. This applies to vases, sculptures, antiques or any other keepsakes that are unique in shape and appearance. If an item doesn’t fit neatly inside of a box, be sure to wrap it in foam or bubble wrap for an extra layer of cushion and support. Afterwards, carefully place it on the back of the moving truck. Ideally, you can tuck the item into a crevice so it doesn’t roll around during the move.
Moving Equipment
With kiln ovens in particular, take special precautions to lift the kiln rather than pushing it. The last thing you want to do is damage the stand of the kiln during the move. You can also skip the two-wheelers; you’ll find it much easier to move a kiln oven using a dolly. Dollies can usually be rented from many moving companies. However, if you absolutely will not have access to a dolly, it is possible to use a two-wheeler to move your kiln; just be very, very careful and make sure to place the flat side of the kiln facing down. Regardless of whether you use a dolly or a two-wheeler, slow and steady is always the best pace. This helps you avoid jarring the kiln while you’re moving it.
When you are proactive and take all of these things into consideration before your move, you can save yourself time, money and hassle. Although it might take a bit more effort and planning on your part prior to your move, the payoff will be worth it. Your big moving day will be much more likely to go smoothly, and hopefully without any damaged items. This will give you peace of mind, allowing you to quickly settle into your new residence and get back to doing what you love: creating your artwork.
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