Powder coating outdoor art is an amazing way to protect them from the elements that could tarnish their beauty.
BY MAX ROSSI, ARTCENTRON
One of the biggest problems for outdoor art isn’t critics—it’s the weather; constant exposure to rain, snow, sunlight, wind, and more can lead many materials, especially metal, to rust, corrode, and otherwise become blighted and tarnished. Not every piece of art works well with powder coating, but there are undoubtedly some works that can benefit from the look and protection of a good powder coat. Consider the following four huge benefits of powder coating outdoor art.
First and foremost, powder coating is a means of protection against the elements. After a powder coating treatment, metal, plastic, wood, and other surfaces can endure all sorts of wear and tear, preventing the weather and other forces from damaging the art. Powder coating resists the fading effects of sunlight as well, retaining its color and surface sheen for a very long time. As a result, the piece of artwork can last much longer. Nothing is permanent, but powder coating works wonders in terms of preserving materials and artistic statements.
Powder coating is a very efficient process and takes much less time to do than other methods of preservation. Paint, especially enamel and spray paint, takes a long time to apply and dry and can remain tacky to the touch for long periods, leading to imperfections in the finish. Powder coating can also cost less because you can calculate from the outset how much it will cost to thoroughly cover and treat the surface. Art should be about more than profit, of course, but there are certain realities involved in producing it!
Powder coating has a low impact on the ecosystem and in more ways than one. The process as well as the coating itself have little to no impact on the environment. The chemicals used in the process are gentle, involve no solvents, and lack dangerous volatile organic compounds, unlike other processes and coatings. Most of the powder sticks to the surface, and what’s left over can be vacuumed up. Also, with proper protection, it’s safer for the applier to use without suffering any ill effects to their health.
Here is the last of the four huge benefits of powder coating outdoor art. This could happen before or after the creative process. Powder coating may sound a little industrial and staid, but you may be surprised at the variety of colors, finishes, and textures available. In fact, keeping the final powder coating stage in mind can inspire new ways of presenting one’s art as well as preserving it for generations to come.
When it comes to powder coating outside art, it all depends on what the artist and art lover is looking for in the piece. However, knowing that such an investment of time, money, and talent will protect the beauty of your art for a very long time is certainly something to consider!