Thank you for your report!
We have received your report and it is currently under investigation by a forum moderator.
LED lighting is better for paintings
Welcome to the forum.
Here you can discuss all things art with like-minded artists, join regular painting challenges, ask questions, buy and sell art materials and much more.
Make sure you sign in or register to join the discussions.
Hang on Studio Wall
This is a Studio member-only feature!
Join our Studio membership and save your favourite Painters Online content, from gallery artwork to step-by-step guides, to your own online mood boards. Create your go-to place for inspiration and learning. Plus, members can also enjoy a range of exciting features including monthly art videos and a digital magazine library.
If you are already a Studio member, simply login to your account.
Not a Studio member? Why not try our free 30-day trial - no commitment, no credit card required
Message
Posted
Stephen Naor says:
"[The] main concern with certain lighting types—including CFLs and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps—is that they emit enough UV to damage artwork and fabrics over time. High quality LEDs—thanks to their low UV emissions—are now the lighting type of choice for museums striving to protect treasured artifacts and maintain their original colors and patina. In commercial and residential applications, LEDs save carpets, window coverings, and painted surfaces from the degrading effects of UV radiation.
LEDs offer relief from another pesky problem—insects. UV light attracts insects. If you’ve ever seen—and heard—a black-light bug zapper at work, you know the strange command UV radiation seems to hold over insects. With virtually no UV emissions, LEDs do not attract bugs, and that’s made them popular in commercial food-service applications, residential kitchens, and exterior installations where it’s important to minimize the attraction of small flying pests." (2012, here)
However, LED bulbs are preferable to pointlike LEDs (spotlights), because looking directly into the latter could damage the eye (especially with children) (cf. CELMA, 2011, here).
Mats