Works on Paper: A Complete Collection Guide to Works on Paper

From drawings and paintings to prints, works on paper include a diverse range of artworks such as drawings, paintings, mixed media works, and printed images developed in editions created on paper. The paper has been used extensively since time immemorial for various creative pursuits. 

Paper works by distinguished artists like MF Hussain, Ram Kumar, S.H Raza, Sakti Burman, Akbar Padamsee, Paresh Maity, Harsha Vardhana, Maya Burman, Kanchan Chandar, and Maite Delteil belong to the collection of Art Alive Gallery.

Significance of Works on Paper

Paper has been a staple for artists around the world. Traditionally, artists use paper with a pencil or charcoal to explore their experimental side, find new strategies, or create new structures. Thus, paper can be considered an intimate channel which conveys the mechanisms of an artist’s psyche. Unprecedented, unprejudiced, art work on paper offers a personal journey where the spectator can comprehend their creative process.

The above mentioned idea is evident in Leonardo da Vinci's drawings and sketches. Being a true Renaissance man, Da Vinci exhibited his engineering skills through his intricately drawn sketchbooks with his visions for the future through the images of winged flying machines (aeroplanes), diving equipment, and 'Helical Ariel Screw', now known as the helicopter.

Traditional Indian Art, such as the mesmerizing miniature painting, was also created on wasli paper, a handmade paper made of 5 thin sheets of water-absorbent paper with a bookbinder's glue.

Why Collect Works on Paper?

Art works on paper are conveniently priced and thereby accessible to young collectors or experienced collectors who intend to expand their stock of a particular master artist. Works on paper allow Collectors to acquire the works of artists who are otherwise unreachable. This includes artists whose works seldom appear on the art market or contemporary or new media works that are hard to collect, like graffiti or installation.

Invention of Paper

Drawings

Drawings are considered the signature work of an artist, similar to an original painting; thus, the exclusive works on paper can also be evaluated at millions. Drawings are rare works of art that range from preliminary sketches for a painting to final compositions. Drawings offer a raw look to the eye of the spectator, allowing them to have a close connection with the artist.

Art Alive holds a collection of and pencil-on-paper works by modern masters like Akbar Padamsee, ink on newspaper works and ink on paper, which belong to the sketches from the Binduseries by S.H Raza, Charcoal & pencil drawings by Laxma Goud, paper works by FN Souza, charcoal on paper by Madhvi Parekh, pen and ink on paper works by Manjit Bawa, and pencil on paper works by renowned artist Paresh Maity.

Painting / Mixed Media

Watercolours and gouches are often executed exquisitely on paper mediums. Enchanting watercolours by Laxma Goud, Paresh Maity, Maite Delteil, Jayasri Burman; alluring acrylics by Anjolie Ela Menon, Thota Vaikuntam, Manu Parekh, Chandra Bhattacharjee, Jayasri Burman; mixed media works by Arpana Caur, Maya Burman, and abstract paintings by S.H Harsha Vardhana, also holds space in Art Alive Gallery.

Limited Editions Print/ Photographs

Prints are a great way to collect fine art and often come in limited editions. The value of prints depends on the rarity of the image, content, quality, and condition. Various limited edition portfolios of prints by artists, including Jogen Chowdhury, Sakti Burman, and Thota Vaikuntam; photographs by Akbar Padamsee, belong to the Art Alive Gallery collection.

Where to Collect the Works on Paper?

Be it modern Indian art or Indian contemporary art, artwork on paper are readily available in most Indian art galleries. Art AliveGallery possesses a distinct collection of works on paper by the stalwarts of Indian art suitable for all categories of collectors and connoisseurs.

What to Keep in mind while Collecting Works on Paper?

Collecting a new medium can be pretty tricky; here are some important definitions to help you begin.

• Deckled Edges

Ragged edges are present on all four edges of some high-quality handmade papers used by artists. Many artists work with deckled edge sheets, which won’t affect the condition or value of the work negatively.

• Hinging

Specific works on paper are attached to a secondary support like a board without damaging the artwork. A work that is hinged at the upper side can be lifted so that the other side, i.e. the back of the painting, is visible. Mounted works are pinned down from all four corners as they can’t be lifted.

Major Paper Conditions / Issues

• Time Stains

Time stains or discoloration refer to the yellowing or darkening of the paper, sometimes diminishing the image. This happens due to oxidation triggered by light exposure and the lack of using UV protected glass.

• Water damage

Water, when it comes in contact with the paper, forms an environment favorable for the development of acid and mould, leading to discolouration. High humidity level is also one of the predominant issues contributing to fading. Mould growth tends to spread unpredictably across an artwork, causing damage from multiple sections and ultimately affecting the whole artwork.

• Creasing

Mishandling can lead to folds on the surface of paper which is known as creasing. This happens mainly when an artwork is rolled, bent, or unevenly placed. Appropriate techniques are required to store the works to minimize damage.

• Foxing

Foxing, or fungus on paper, are considered reddish brown spots, symbolizing the aging in paper due to weather changes and humidity. Maintaining a dry and clean environment away from light is advised to avoid these spots.

• Acidic Burn

Acidic burn occurs when the acid present in wood leaks onto the paper, causing browning of the paper. This is often found as a change of colour near the edges.

• Grime

Various types of impurities such as smoke, dust, and fingerprints can create grime on paper, which blurs colours and stains the surface of artwork.

• Tears and Holes

Considering the fragility of paper, it should be handled with caution; otherwise, it is prone to have tears and holes. Insects can also induce perforations in works of art on paper.

• Warping

Warping indicates an uneven surface that occurs due to humidity. Regulating the environment is required to prevent this issue. Controlled humidification, heat, or pressure is compulsory to smoothen the surface and retain its condition.

How to Care for Works on Paper?

Environment is the biggest challenge when it comes to safeguarding works on paper. Paper is a delicate medium which is sensitive to light, temperature, and humidity. Keeping them away from direct sunlight in a temperature-regulated space is essential to avoid discolouration. While handling works on paper, hands should be washed to remove dirt, which could harm paper through repeated touching.

Intricate and diverse, works on paper require ample care and attention. Watercolours and gouache are susceptible to fading because of light exposure. Oil and Acrylic can also alter in colour due to light exposure; oil also tends to stain paper.

What are the Ideal Storage Practices?

• Keeping a reasonably dry, clean, and stable environment is necessary.
• Minimizing exposure to direct sunlight and using UV-protected glass for framing.
• Keeping artworks away from potential heat sources.
• Storing large papers either unrolled or rolled in suitable conditions.
• Use archival-quality clips to evade rust and other damage.
• Dusting with a soft brush to protect against grime.

What Kinds of Paper are Durable?

Paper made of linen and cotton withstands numerous kinds of damage. Linen paper is tree-free paper, which is another alternative to regular paper.

Upsurge of Value at Recent Auctions

Recent spring online and live auctions at the Saffronart also indicated a considerable increase in value for multiple artworks on paper, including M.F Hussain’s ink and pastel on paper, which was sold for Rs.28,80,000. The winning bid of Hussain’s Untitled (Kashmiri couple), ink and wash on paper was Rs. 21,60,000, and another watercolour and felt tip pen on handmade paper was Rs. 19,20,000. Watercolour and pastel on paper by Ram Kumar reached 9,00,000 Rs. in the auction.

Things to Remember when Collecting Works on Paper?

There are appropriate ways to preserve an art work on paper, which can contribute to the durability of the piece. One can use materials specially designed for conservation framing in order to keep the artwork. It is also advisable to get in touch with a conservator to alleviate any doubts regarding this.

Collecting works on paper is an exciting opportunity to get hold of original artworks by artists of all ages! Happy buying!