NEWS & LATEST

When it comes to moving house, packing is often the most stressful and time-consuming part of the process. From delicate glassware and TVs to sentimental artworks and heavy mirrors, the challenge lies in protecting valuable items from damage while keeping the process as efficient and environmentally conscious as possible. Traditionally, this has meant endless rolls of bubble wrap, mountains of packing paper, and bulky cardboard boxes. But there’s a better way.

Enter ArtPakk — a reusable, padded solution originally designed for transporting fine art. While ArtPakk bags have long been trusted by galleries, museums, and artists to safely store and move valuable paintings, their benefits go far beyond the art world. If you’re preparing for a house move, ArtPakk can help you protect more than just your artwork — they’re ideal for safely transporting mirrors, framed family photos, televisions, and other fragile or high-value household items. In this blog, we’ll explore how ArtPakk can simplify your next move and why it’s time to think outside the bubble.

ArtPakk is a range of reusable, lightweight, padded bags specifically engineered to protect two-dimensional objects like paintings, prints, screens, and frames. Made from specially designed materials that wick away moisture, cushion impact, and resist tears, they provide superior protection compared to conventional packing materials. The bags come in a variety of sizes and are colour-coded for easy organization.

Originally created for the demanding needs of artists and galleries, ArtPakk bags are now gaining popularity with homeowners, interior designers, and removal companies for their convenience, sustainability, and professional-level protection.

Moving Mirrors, TV Screens, and Framed Photos

When moving house, mirrors and flat-screen TVs are some of the most vulnerable items. Their large surface area, fragility, and awkward shapes make them particularly tricky to pack safely. One accidental knock or slip and you’re left with a shattered screen or cracked glass. Traditional methods of protection — layering bubble wrap or blankets and securing with tape — are time-consuming and often unreliable.

ArtPakk bags offer a far more elegant and secure solution:

• For Mirrors: Simply slip the mirror into a size-appropriate ArtPakk bag. The inner padding absorbs shock and prevents scratches, while the moisture-wicking material guards against condensation and environmental fluctuations during transit or storage.
  
• For TVs and Screens: Instead of wrestling with makeshift wrappings, slide your flat-screen TV into a large ArtPakk bag. The protective shell conforms to the screen’s shape and offers better protection than bubble wrap ever could, especially for modern ultra-thin models.
  
• For Framed Photos: Family portraits, wedding photographs, and decorative framed prints all carry emotional value. ArtPakk bags keep them safe, dry, and dust-free — whether they’re being packed into a van or temporarily stored in a garage or warehouse.
  

More Than Just for Art: A Homeowner’s Secret Weapon

One of the major misconceptions about ArtPakk is that it’s only useful for paintings and gallery-grade works. In reality, these padded bags can be used for a wide variety of household items, including:

• Framed certificates and diplomas
  
• Architectural drawings and blueprints
  
• Chopping boards, glass shelves, or tabletop surfaces
  
• Decorative panels and wall-mounted décor
  
• Vinyl record collections or portfolio folders
  

Think of ArtPakk as a kind of high-performance envelope for any flat or fragile item. If it has corners, edges, or a surface you care about preserving — it likely fits in an ArtPakk.

Stress-Free Packing and Organisation

Another major benefit of using ArtPakk during a move is ease and efficiency. Packing fragile items is usually a chaotic task that requires precision, care, and plenty of materials. But with ArtPakk, the process becomes smoother:

• Each item gets its own padded sleeve — no need to measure, wrap, tape, or pad out.
  
• Colour-coded bags help you quickly identify and sort items (e.g., blue for mirrors, grey for TVs)
  
• They stack cleanly and don’t slide or shift easily in transit, reducing breakage.
  
• Labelling areas on the bags allow you to mark the contents or intended room, streamlining unpacking at your new home.
  

Using ArtPakk can shave hours off your packing time and significantly reduce stress — especially in the crucial final days before moving day.

A Sustainable, Reusable Alternative

House moves are notorious for waste. Cardboard boxes are often used once and discarded. Bubble wrap and packing peanuts end up in landfill. By contrast, ArtPakk bags are fully reusable, offering a sustainable option that doesn’t compromise on protection.

One ArtPakk can be used hundreds of times. After your move, you can:

• Use them for storing items long-term in your attic, basement, or storage unit.
  
• Lend them to friends or family during their own moves.
  
• Keep them on hand for future house moves, home renovations, or holiday travel (perfect for transporting framed gifts or electronics).
  

If you’re working with a professional removal company, many are now aware of ArtPakk and may even offer them as part of a premium moving package. Some also rent them out, helping reduce costs and environmental impact further.

Why Homeowners and Renters are Making the Switch

In recent years, homeowners have started to catch on to what art professionals have known for a while: ArtPakk offers a better way to pack and protect valuable items. Here’s why more and more people are investing in them for their home moves:

• Peace of Mind: Know that your valuable or sentimental items are protected by museum-grade materials.
  
• Speed: Save time on wrapping and boxing by sliding items into ready-to-go protective bags.
  
• Sustainability: Reduce single-use plastics and packaging waste.
  
• Cost-Efficiency: Use again and again — ideal for people who move frequently, own multiple properties, or redecorate regularly.

Moving house doesn’t have to mean chaos, stress, and mounds of waste. With ArtPakk, you get a professional-grade solution that protects your valuables, simplifies the packing process, and supports a more sustainable approach to relocation.Whether you’re a collector with treasured artworks, a tech lover with expensive screens, or simply a homeowner who wants to ensure nothing gets damaged in the move, ArtPakk is an investment worth making. It’s time to leave the bubble wrap behind and pack smarter — not harder. Looking for find out how our reusable packaging solutions can helo you? Contact our teams via info@forpakking.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17.

As the art world gears up for the bustling September fair season—from Frieze Seoul to The Armory Show and beyond—artists and galleries are already deep into planning, inventory, and logistics. One of the most critical (yet often overlooked) elements of art fair preparation is how artworks are packed and transported. Traditionally, this has involved layers of bubble wrap, tape, cardboard, and plastic sheeting—all time-consuming, bulky, and wasteful. But now, with sustainable innovations like ArtPakk, there’s a better way to protect your art while saving time, money, and the planet.

The Problem with Traditional Art Packaging

When shipping or transporting artworks, galleries often rely on materials like bubble wrap, foam corners, glassine, and custom crates. While effective, this method is:

• Time-Intensive: Wrapping each piece individually and securing protective layers is a laborious task that can eat into valuable prep time.
  
• Expensive: Single-use materials and custom packaging add up quickly, especially when dealing with large inventories or international travel.
  
• Wasteful: After one use, most materials are discarded—contributing to landfill waste and carbon emissions associated with plastic production and disposal.
  

In short, traditional packaging is increasingly incompatible with the fast-paced, eco-conscious demands of today’s art fairs.

ArtPakk is a reusable, padded art bag designed specifically for the safe and efficient transport and storage of artworks. Each bag is made with a breathable, moisture-wicking inner lining and a durable, tear-resistant outer shell. Available in a wide range of sizes, ArtPakk bags offer a ready-to-go solution for framed works, prints, panels, and more.

Unlike conventional materials, ArtPakk is:

• Reusable: Each bag can be used again and again, eliminating the need for constant repurchasing and reducing waste.
  
• Eco-Friendly: The materials are engineered to wick away moisture and maintain consistent internal climate conditions, preventing mold and humidity damage without the need for plastic.
  
• Time-Saving: Simply slide in the work, close the Velcro flap or zip, and you’re done. No cutting, taping, or bundling required.
  

Why Switch to ArtPakk for September Art Fairs?

1. Streamline Your Logistics

September fairs mean tight schedules and fast turnarounds. ArtPakk bags drastically cut down packing and unpacking time, allowing your team to focus on presentation and client engagement instead of bubble wrap and tape.

2. Protect Your Investment

Whether you’re flying a €10,000 print or a six-figure canvas, the risk of corner damage, surface abrasion, or condensation is real. ArtPakk’s padded interior and breathable lining help regulate moisture and temperature, preventing common travel-related issues.

3. Project Professionalism

Collectors and institutions are increasingly conscious of sustainability. Showing up with sleek, reusable packaging signals that your gallery is forward-thinking and environmentally responsible—a subtle but powerful impression in a competitive fair setting.

4. Save Money in the Long Run

Although the upfront cost of ArtPakk bags may exceed that of bubble wrap or glassine, their reusability means the savings add up quickly. One bag can replace dozens of single-use wrappings, especially for galleries doing multiple fairs per year.

5. Storage Ready

After the fair, unsold artworks can be placed directly into storage without needing to re-wrap or re-box. ArtPakk bags are ideal for short- and long-term storage, making post-fair logistics smoother and more efficient.

Best Practices for Using ArtPakk at Art Fairs

• Pre-measure and order early: Ensure you have the correct sizes for each piece well in advance. ArtPakk offers a size guide and custom sizing options for larger works.
  
• How to pack: Simply open the velcro strap at the top and slide your artwork into the bag. It’s that simple. Ensure the fit is snug without exerting too much pressure onto the artwork itself. Where needed, our artPAKK straps make carrying the artworks easy and stylish.
  
• Label externally: Use removable labels or color-coded tags to identify works inside each bag without needing to open them repeatedly.
  
• Educate your team: Train staff on how to load and seal the bags properly to maintain their condition and effectiveness.
  

ArtPakk and the Future of Art Handling

With sustainability now a top priority across the art industry, solutions like ArtPakk are quickly becoming the new standard. They align with global goals for reduced plastic use, lower carbon footprints, and smarter logistics—while offering artists and galleries a practical, professional way to move and protect their work.As you prepare for September’s fairs, consider making the switch. You’ll save time, reduce waste, impress your clients—and most importantly, safeguard the art that matters. Contact our team via info@artpakk.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 and discover our reusable, sustainable art packaging supplies,

As summer temperatures soar, collectors, galleries, and museums face a perennial challenge: how to store and transport valuable artworks safely in the heat. Excessive warmth, humidity, and direct sunlight pose serious threats to paintings, works on paper, photographs, and sculptures. From warping and discoloration to the formation of mould or mildew, art is highly sensitive to environmental shifts—especially those brought on by seasonal extremes.

That’s where ArtPakk steps in. Designed with the fine art industry in mind, ArtPakk provides a smart, reusable solution for artwork protection, using advanced, moisture-wicking materials engineered to keep your artworks cool, dry, and safe even in peak summer heat. Here’s how ArtPakk is revolutionising summer art storage and transport.

The Seasonal Threat to Art

In the heat of summer, ambient temperatures can quickly climb above safe storage thresholds, particularly in non-climate-controlled settings like cars, temporary exhibition sites, or storage units.

• Oil and acrylic paints can soften, bubble, or crack.
  
• Photographs and works on paper risk yellowing or becoming brittle.
  
• Canvas may sag, warp, or stretch.
  
• Humidity trapped inside packaging can condense into moisture, leading to the growth of mould, mildew, or even direct water damage.
  

Traditional packing materials—such as plastic wrap, bubble wrap, or cardboard—can exacerbate the problem. These materials often trap heat and humidity, creating an internal “greenhouse effect” that accelerates deterioration. Worse still, condensation may form if the temperature inside the package fluctuates, creating microclimates that put artworks at serious risk.

Engineered for Protection: What Makes ArtPakk Different

ArtPakk is purpose-built for fine art protection in all seasons, but its true advantages shine during summer. Here’s how the product’s materials work to maintain a stable, protective microclimate around your artwork:

Thermal Insulation for Temperature Control

ArtPakk’s unique multi-layer construction provides a natural thermal buffer against heat. The outer shell reflects external temperatures, while inner layers insulate and cushion the artwork. Even when exposed to warm conditions (such as being in a vehicle or a sunlit room), ArtPakk helps to regulate internal temperatures, shielding delicate surfaces from abrupt thermal shifts.

Unlike plastic-based alternatives, which can absorb and magnify heat, ArtPakk’s breathable and reflective materials act as a thermal barrier—slowing the transmission of heat and offering cooler internal conditions for artworks in transit or temporary storage.

Moisture-Wicking Inner Layer

Perhaps the most innovative feature of ArtPakk’s design is its moisture-wicking technology. Each bag is lined with a specially engineered textile that actively pulls humidity away from the artwork’s surface.

• This wicking layer draws moisture outward, where it disperses across the fabric and evaporates.
  
• By preventing the buildup of condensation inside the packaging, ArtPakk eliminates the “sweating” effect that often occurs when materials like glassine or plastic come into contact with warm air.
  
• This dramatically reduces the risk of mould, mildew, and warping—some of the most destructive effects of summer storage.
  

The result is a dry, breathable environment that mimics the kind of controlled climate you’d find in a museum-grade storage facility—even when you’re out in the field.

Anti-Static and Non-Abrasive Interior

Summer heat often increases the risk of static build-up, particularly when synthetic materials are used. ArtPakk’s inner surface is anti-static and soft, meaning it won’t cling to or scratch the surface of prints, varnishes, or photographs.

Even sensitive surfaces—such as unvarnished oil paintings or inkjet prints—can be safely placed inside ArtPakk, thanks to its non-abrasive and lint-free construction. The materials have been rigorously tested to ensure they will not shed fibers, imprint textures, or cause microabrasions, even during long-term storage.

Breathable Yet Durable

Unlike sealed plastics that trap everything inside, ArtPakk offers a breathable enclosure. The fabric allows for the natural exchange of air while blocking dust, pollutants, and UV rays. This balance of breathability and barrier protection is crucial in fluctuating summer conditions, where trapped moisture or gasses can quickly deteriorate the work’s surface or support structure.

Reusable, Sustainable, and Ready for Repeated Summer Use

ArtPakk is designed not only to be effective—but also sustainable. Each bag can be reused dozens of times, making it an eco-conscious alternative to single-use packaging like foam, bubble wrap, or corrugated board.

The robust build ensures that ArtPakk maintains its structure and performance even after repeated use in summer conditions. Whether you’re transporting a print to a collector, moving artworks between storage sites, or preparing for an art fair, ArtPakk makes handling safer and more environmentally responsible.

Applications in the Summer Art World

ArtPakk’s benefits are especially pronounced during the summer calendar, when art fairs, pop-ups, and outdoor exhibitions become more common. In these settings, climate control is often minimal or non-existent, and artwork may spend hours in fluctuating conditions.

• Art Fairs: Transport artworks confidently without worrying about heat exposure en route to booths or temporary storage.
  
• Outdoor Installations: Protect fragile works as they are brought on-site, ensuring no moisture or heat builds up in packaging.
  
• Gallery-to-Collector Deliveries: Even in a short car journey during high summer, heat can rise rapidly in a vehicle. ArtPakk’s insulating layers give you peace of mind.
  
• International Shipping: When artworks travel long distances, they often sit in hot distribution centers or in transit vehicles. ArtPakk offers added thermal and moisture protection throughout the journey.
  

Peace of Mind in Every Season

While summer poses specific risks, the truth is that ArtPakk is a year-round solution. However, its summer performance is what truly sets it apart from conventional packing options.

When temperatures spike and humidity hangs in the air, ArtPakk’s clever blend of moisture-wicking, insulating, and breathable materials ensures your artworks stay protected. Whether you’re an artist, gallery owner, logistics provider, or private collector, ArtPakk delivers museum-grade peace of mind with every bag.

The heat of summer doesn’t have to be a threat to your art collection. With ArtPakk, you gain access to a technically engineered, reusable packing solution that actively regulates temperature and wicks away harmful moisture. It’s a smart, sustainable, and professional-grade tool for anyone who cares about art protection.ArtPakk is more than just packaging—it’s an investment in preservation, ensuring your works remain pristine, no matter what the weather brings. Find out more about our wholesale art packaging supplies and contact our teams via info@artpakk.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17.

Since its inception in 1991, the Museums + Heritage Show has emerged as the UK’s largest annual gathering of cultural-sector professionals. What began as a modest forum for dialogue and learning has grown into a two-day extravaganza featuring over 60 sessions, 90 expert speakers, and a bustling expo floor showcasing cutting-edge innovations and best practices.

The Show has consistently focused on themes of inclusivity, accessibility, and collaboration. For instance, in 2025 delegates could engage with sessions spotlighting disability access (led by Historic England), youth engagement initiatives like the Kids in Museums Youth Panel, and groundbreaking conversations about archival digitization and community-driven partnerships.

Its event program further underscores its role as a convener: The “Sector Support Zone” and “Networking Lounge” offer crucial spaces for connecting practitioners and fostering cross-organizational collaboration.

Over three decades, the Show’s ethos has remained constant: seeing value in “looking outwards”—transforming museums from insular institutions into dynamic contributors to broader communities. In doing so, it has consistently provided a platform to present both tangible solutions and inspiring case studies—crucial, given museums’ increasingly complex logistical, educational, and environmental demands.

Why Storage & Handling Matter: Beyond Exhibited Objects

For museums, moving and storing artifacts isn’t merely operational—it’s integral to collection integrity, conservation, and public trust. Each relocation, loan, or exhibition tour risks damage from environmental exposure, shock, mishandling, or even simple friction. Similarly, long-term storage raises concerns around humidity, acidity, mold, and pests.

In recent years, sustainability has also become a priority, as curators, registrars, and conservators seek ways to reduce waste, avoid single-use packaging, and embrace eco-conscious practices that won’t compromise collection health.

Enter ArtPakk: Smart, Reusable Packaging for the Cultural Sector

Origins Rooted in Experience

ArtPakk was created by Soo Turner—whose circa 25-year background in gallery and art logistics led her to design a reusable bag tailored to the needs of art professionals. Made from durable, non-toxic, recyclable materials, each bag features acid-free polypropylene lining, a resilient polyethylene core, and Velcro closures—eliminating the need for tape or bubble wrap. 

Core Advantages for Museums

Reusable & Efficient: ArtPakk bags can be used across multiple shipments and storage cycles—saving both time and money, especially during peak loan periods.

Acid-Free Protection: With pH-neutral inner surfaces, the bags prevent acidity buildup that can damage paper, canvas, and delicate surfaces.

Shock Absorption: The 6 mm composite construction shields items from physical impact while remaining lightweight.

Eco-Conscious Design: Free from harmful chemicals, the bags are recyclable and help museums reduce reliance on disposable bubble wrap.

Operable Across Departments: From preparation to installation, collections teams can insert framed art, artworks, or objects directly into the bag—no need for crates or tape.

A Natural Synergy: ArtPakk at the Museums + Heritage Show

ArtPakk’s ethos aligns with the Show’s core themes:

1. Innovation & Efficiency

 Fast-paced museum logistics—moving items between stores, galleries, and exhibition venues—require packaging that keeps artifacts safe and fits within tighter timeframes. ArtPakk enables prepacking and rapid deployment, leaving staff free to focus on curatorial detail.

2. Sustainability

The Show often includes dialogue on reducing museum carbon footprints. ArtPakk replaces single-use materials with long-lasting alternatives, offering measurable reductions in packaging waste and associated disposal costs.

3. Professional Presentation

 Museums take pride in consistent, white-glove-standard packaging. ArtPakk presents a polished, professional solution—demonstrating respect for both the artifact and the lending institution.

4. Collaboration & Best Practice

The Show’s networking ethos fosters partnerships among museums, logistics providers, conservation studios, and organizations like the Heritage Alliance and Museums Association ([museumsandheritage.com][3]). ArtPakk, with its trade-only orientation, fits seamlessly into this professional context, facilitating procurement by trusted institutional partners.

How Museums Can Maximize Impact with ArtPakk

1. Standardize Your Kit

By stocking a range of ArtPakk sizes—via single bags or multipacks—museums equip frontline staff to pack any painting, framed object, or flat artwork quickly and uniformly.

2. Train Across Roles

Encourage registrars, preparators, art handlers, and even external couriers to use ArtPakk packaging consistently, promoting shared practices across departments.

3. Leverage Analytics

 Track reuse cycles, incidents avoided, and waste reduction over time. These insights support sustainability reporting and recycling credentials.

4. Highlight in Outreach

Hospitals, universities, and partner venues value museums that invest in reuse and conservation. ArtPakk’s green credentials elevate institutional reputation.

5. Complement Crates & Padding

While ArtPakk excels for flat or framed works during transport/storage, artifacts requiring crating (ceramics, sculptures) may still need crates—but can benefit from internal padding using ArtPakk pouches.

Use Case: Seasonal Rehanging & Touring Exhibitions

Consider a museum rehanging its modern-art galleries and dispatching works to two touring exhibitions. Instead of wrapping each piece in bubble wrap and taping, staff slide artworks directly into ArtPakk bags. Each bag protects during pallet loading, transport, and shelf storage. At the venue, unpacking is clean, fast, and residue-free. Once exhibited, the same bags return with the artwork or replenish storage—no waste, no fuss, no tape residue.

During lull periods, these bags double as storage covers in the collections depot—dust-proof and ready for the next relocation.

The Future: Scaling Green Logistics in Heritage

The Museums + Heritage Show, with its expansive audience of cultural stakeholders, is the perfect forum for ArtPakk to show how greener logistics can be mainstreamed. As discussions increasingly emphasize equitable partnerships, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, packaging solutions that do more than protect—solutions that align with profound institutional values—will stand out.

ArtPakk’s partnership with Artcadis (US-based distributor) means museums on both sides of the Atlantic can access these solutions and remove dependency on bubble-wrap—an impactful narrative for those preparing sustainability reports or grant bids.

From humble beginnings in 1991, the Museums + Heritage Show has evolved into a global showcase for museum innovation, inclusivity, and operational excellence. In this landscape, ArtPakk stands as a natural ally—offering reusable, protective, and elegant packaging that safeguards collections, supports sustainability goals, and enhances internal efficiencies.

As cultural institutions strive to deliver exhibitions that are ethical, green, and scalable, integrating ArtPakk into collection logistics sends a powerful message: that every aspect of museum practice—from exhibition design to pack-and-move—can embody the values museums champion.

Find out more about our sustainable art packaging solutions and check out the museum and heritage show for further details. 

Moving to a new home is often a mix of excitement and stress—but for art collectors, it brings an additional layer of complexity: the safe transportation of valuable and often irreplaceable artworks. Whether you’re moving a single statement piece or a full collection, properly packing and transporting your art is critical. One innovative solution helping collectors, galleries, and museums worldwide safeguard their collections during transit is ArtPakk, a reusable and eco-conscious storage and transport solution designed specifically for artworks.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to move art when relocating, why proper protection is essential, and how ArtPakk can provide peace of mind during the process.

Why Art Needs Special Handling During a Move

Artworks are inherently fragile. A slight shift in temperature, a bump in the road, or even prolonged exposure to light or moisture during a move can result in costly and sometimes irreversible damage. Paintings can crack, paper works can warp, and sculptures can chip or shatter. For collectors, such risks aren’t merely financial—they’re emotional and cultural losses.

Key threats during transit include:

• Physical Impact: Sudden movement or collision during transport
  
• Moisture and Humidity: Leading to mold, mildew, or warping
  
• Temperature Fluctuations: Damaging paint or adhesives
  
• Dust and Debris: Especially harmful to mixed media or textile works
  
• Light Exposure: Particularly detrimental to works on paper
  

That’s why a strategy for transporting art must go beyond bubble wrap and cardboard—it requires professional-level care and purpose-built materials.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Art When Moving Home

Catalogue Your Collection

Before anything is packed, take detailed inventory. Photograph each piece, note its condition, dimensions, and medium. This serves multiple purposes: it helps you organize the move, provides documentation for insurance, and gives you a reference for reinstallation in your new space.

Assess the Needs of Each Work

Different materials require different packing solutions. A framed oil painting may need rigid corner protection and padding, while a delicate work on paper needs moisture resistance and UV shielding. If you’re unsure, consult a conservator or professional art handler.

3Choose the Right Packaging

Traditional packaging materials like foam, glassine paper, and crates can protect against some risks, but they’re often wasteful and ill-suited for repeat use. That’s where ArtPakk comes in.

Why Use ArtPakk?

ArtPakk bags are designed to solve many of the pain points associated with moving art:

• Reusable: Unlike bubble wrap and cardboard, ArtPakk bags are sustainable and can be reused dozens of times—ideal for collectors who frequently rotate or relocate works.
  
• Protective Layers: Each bag features a multi-layer construction, including a soft, lint-free interior, moisture-absorbent foam, and a tough, waterproof outer layer, ensuring protection against physical damage and environmental stress.
  
• Temperature Insulation: ArtPakk helps regulate temperature changes during transit, critical for preventing cracking or adhesive failures.
  
• Lightweight and Customizable: Available in various sizes and adaptable to different artworks, from prints and photographs to framed canvases and sculptures.
  

ArtPakk bags streamline the packing process while offering a museum-grade level of protection. They are used by major galleries, museums, and art fairs around the world—trusted where precision and care are paramount.

Transport with Care

If possible, hire a professional art handler or a moving company that specializes in fine art logistics. They have the tools, climate-controlled vehicles, and expertise to ensure your works arrive safely.

When self-moving, always:

• Keep artworks upright and never stack them
  
• Cushion all sides to prevent movement inside the vehicle
  
• Avoid extreme temperatures (e.g., don’t leave art in a car overnight)

Storage Between Homes

If you’re placing art in storage temporarily, ensure the space is secure, and clean. Even short-term storage in poor conditions can degrade artworks. ArtPakk bags are ideal for this scenario as they protect against moisture, dust, and handling damage.

Reinstallation and Aftercare

Once in your new home, allow artworks to acclimate to the room’s temperature before hanging. Check the condition of each piece before removing it from its protective casing. If a piece shows signs of damage or distress, consult a conservator.

The Bigger Picture: Long-Term Art Care

Moving is just one point in an artwork’s journey. Whether it’s being exhibited, stored, loaned, or relocated, ongoing protection is part of responsible collecting. Tools like ArtPakk are not just for moving—they’re a long-term investment in preservation.

Benefits of adopting professional-grade storage like ArtPakk include:

• Sustainable packaging practices
  
• Reduced long-term conservation costs
  
• Greater peace of mind for high-value works
  
• Readiness for frequent movement, loans, or exhibitions

Art is more than decoration—it holds emotional, historical, and often financial value. Moving home shouldn’t compromise your collection’s safety. By investing in reusable, specialist tools like ArtPakk and following best practices for packing, transport, and storage, you ensure your artworks not only survive the journey, but arrive in the same condition they left.Discover our sustainable art packing solutions and register for your trade account today. Need advice? Contact our team via info@artpakk.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17.

With “An Empire Built on Waste” digital artist and designer Emanuele (Jane) Morelli issues a striking visual condemnation of the fast fashion industry, focusing on the unchecked overproduction model fueled by global giants such as SHEIN. Created using the AI tool Midjourney, the piece presents a haunting landscape formed entirely of textile waste—towering mountains of discarded clothing that starkly visualize the environmental and human costs buried beneath the allure of cheap trends.

«Every haul, every impulsive swipe, every €2 top, feeds a mountain. A mountain that doesn’t disappear when the trend passes,» writes Morelli in the post accompanying the image. For the artist, this isn’t exaggeration—it’s a mirror. One that reflects the often-invisible fallout of fast fashion: exploitative labor practices, synthetic fabrics that do not biodegrade, microplastic pollution, and carbon-intensive supply chains hidden behind glossy e-commerce storefronts.

Fast fashion’s wastefulness is staggering. Brands like SHEIN produce thousands of new styles every day, churning out garments at such a rapid pace that clothing has become nearly disposable. Items are designed to be worn only a handful of times—if at all—before being tossed aside. The result is a glut of unsold, unwanted, and quickly discarded clothing that often ends up in landfills or is exported to Global South nations, where it disrupts local markets and creates mountains of unmanageable waste. These synthetic textiles can take hundreds of years to decompose, all while leaching toxic chemicals into the soil and water.

Moreover, fast fashion thrives on a business model of planned obsolescence—new trends emerge weekly, pressuring consumers to keep buying. This system is not only ecologically destructive, but socially corrosive, propped up by underpaid garment workers laboring in unsafe conditions. The industry contributes approximately 10% of global carbon emissions, more than international flights and maritime shipping combined.

But Morelli’s piece doesn’t just indict fashion conglomerates—it also invites self-reflection. The comment section beneath the work’s online debut quickly erupted with debate. One critique in particular struck a chord:

«You justify using AI by saying the message wouldn’t have come through with other means, but clearly the message didn’t get through anyway. Don’t you see? Using AI destroys the planet in the same way as fast fashion and brands like SHEIN. Your message is useless if spreading it contributes to the planet’s destruction».

This objection opens a deeper ethical inquiry: can an artwork that denounces unsustainable practices remain credible if it employs tools—like generative AI—that also have significant environmental footprints? AI image generation relies on vast computing power, often run on non-renewable energy sources, raising concerns about its own contributions to climate change.

Morelli has addressed these critiques in past discussions, acknowledging that artificial intelligence is not a neutral medium. However, the artist argues that AI provides the visual intensity and conceptual abstraction needed to depict the systemic nature of waste, exploitation, and invisibility. In *Empire* the surreal landscapes produced by Midjourney do more than illustrate—they confront. They collapse the abstract and the tangible into a visual metaphor too grotesque to ignore.

With this latest work, the tone shifts from symbolic to overtly political. «Fast fashion isn’t fashion. It’s a cycle of extraction, production, pollution, and waste, disguised as choice,» writes Morelli. And adds: «We can’t keep celebrating empires built on exploitation and call them innovation».

Rather than offering neat solutions, the piece and the dialogue it ignites ask difficult, unresolved questions: Can ethical messages survive when mediated by ethically compromised tools? Does intention outweigh method? The specter of hypocrisy hovers—but perhaps that tension is precisely the point. In a world entangled with contradictions, art may serve best not by resolving them, but by exposing them.
Ultimately, the artist’s call to action is uncompromising: «It’s time to rebuild—slower, fairer, cleaner». Discover our sustainable art packing solutions and register for your trade account today. Need advice? Contact our team via info@artpakk.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17.

At artPAKK many of our clients use our industry leading bags to not just transport their artworks but to store them as well. Designed by experts and used by professionals, our artPAKKs are engineered to keep your artwork safe during storage. And it is storage that we turn to in this article as we look at the incredible new V&A East Storehouse which brings cherished objects previously in storage on display for the first time in many cases, changing the way that the public and institutions view storage facilities and the process. 

Every object tells a story—and at the new V\&A East Storehouse, stories aren’t just preserved, they’re made visible. Part of East Bank’s £1.1 billion Olympic legacy project, this striking new cultural institution in East London is no ordinary museum. Conceived as a hybrid between archive, display space, and working laboratory, the Storehouse houses 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives from the V\&A’s expansive holdings—many of which are being made publicly accessible for the first time.

Born from necessity, the Storehouse emerged after the UK government announced plans to sell Blythe House, the previous long-term storage facility. Faced with the relocation of hundreds of thousands of objects—including monumental items like the 500-year-old Torrijos ceiling—the V\&A seized the opportunity to do something unprecedented. “You don’t move a collection of this size and scale very often,” explains Tim Reeve, deputy director and COO of the V\&A. “It made us think that we had to go as big and be as ambitious as we could.”

The result is a museum turned inside out. Visitors begin their journey in the building’s hollowed core, designed to evoke both theatricality and transparency. The space is flooded with light—thanks to one of the world’s largest Barrisol ceilings—setting the tone for a museum that lets the public behind the scenes. As Elizabeth Diller of Diller Scofidio + Renfro puts it, “The further out you move, the less accessible it becomes.” Here, the boundaries between front-of-house and back-of-house are deliberately blurred, giving visitors a sense of intimate trespass into the V\&A’s curatorial and conservation processes.

Far from simply warehousing culture, the Storehouse invites self-guided exploration through more than 100 curated mini-displays embedded directly into the storage systems. Thematic highlights such as *Collecting Stories*, *Sourcebook for Design*, and *The Working Museum* uncover treasures like embroidered samplers stitched by Hackney schoolgirls in the 17th century and a Stratford music hall program from the 1890s. East London’s own creative pulse is celebrated through commissions by artists such as Jasleen Kaur, Xanthe Somers, Rahemur Rahman, and Imane Ayissi.

A standout feature of the Storehouse is the *Order an Object* service—radically open and entirely free. Visitors can go online to request any item from the collection for viewing, any day of the week. Whether it’s Leigh Bowery’s flamboyant costumes, a Lucie Rie ceramic, or furniture from the Memphis Group, the experience puts curatorial power into the hands of the public. For those who prefer chance over choice, *Object Encounters* offer daily pop-up presentations by the collections team.

Even monumental works like the Torrijos ceiling—a Spanish Mudejar masterpiece originally crafted for a 15th-century palace—have been transported and installed with extraordinary precision and care. Once kept in crates for decades, the ceiling now greets visitors upon arrival, its interlocking arches suspended by chain hoists in a dramatic reinstallation effort that underscores the museum’s theatrical sensibility and technical prowess.

As Monocle noted in its exclusive behind-the-scenes look, V\&A East Storehouse isn’t just demystifying curatorial practice—it’s redefining what a museum can be. It’s a place where every object, from the monumental to the mundane, is a protagonist in a story of design, culture, and reinvention. With collaborators like Artpakk helping to embed sustainable practices into its very structure, the Storehouse offers a bold new blueprint for cultural institutions around the world.

With a firm background in both the artworld and in logistics, the team at artPAKK are excited to visit the museum and see not just the beautiful objects on display but a new way of thinking about preserving and storing them. For more information on our sustainable art packing solutions and to register for your trade account, contact info@artpakk.com or call +44 (0)1245 95 69 17. 

In May 2025, ArtPakk proudly exhibited at the Surrey Art Fair at Sandown Park, a thriving celebration of contemporary and collectible art. As passionate advocates for sustainable innovation in the art world, we were delighted to introduce our eco-friendly packaging solutions to a new wave of collectors, galleries, and artists.

Connecting with the Art World

Throughout the weekend, our stand served as a meeting point for conversations around conservation, transport safety, and environmental responsibility. Collectors frequently expressed concerns about the excessive use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in art packaging. In response, we demonstrated how ArtPakk’s reusable protective bags could deliver exceptional protection while dramatically reducing waste.

Artists and galleries were especially curious about how to streamline their shipping and storage methods without compromising quality or sustainability. These discussions confirmed a growing shift in the industry—away from single-use materials and toward conscious, long-term solutions.

Supporting the Fair with On-Site Packaging

We were proud to support the event by operating a professional wrapping station, manned by our team under the motto “choose to reuse.” In partnership with the fair organisers, ArtPakk offered a combination of recyclable bubble wrap, eco-friendly brown paper, and our signature reusable ArtPakk bags. These premium bags were made available for both exhibitors and collectors, giving attendees a practical way to protect their purchases while participating in a more responsible supply chain.

The initiative ensured that artworks leaving the fair were packaged with care, professionalism, and sustainability in mind. This hands-on experience not only illustrated the functionality of ArtPakk products—it also demonstrated how eco-conscious choices can be seamlessly integrated into the daily workings of the art world.

Why ArtPakk Makes a Difference

ArtPakk bags are designed to replace short-lived materials like foam, cardboard, and single-use plastics. Made from a three-layer bonded construction, each bag features a soft, acid-free inner lining, a robust insulating core, and a tough outer layer. This 6mm-thick structure protects artworks from knocks, environmental fluctuations, mold, mildew, and even water exposure—making them ideal for storage, shipping, or hand-delivery.

But it’s not just about durability. Our bags are also recyclable, reusable, and non-toxic, aligning perfectly with the sustainability goals that collectors and professionals are increasingly adopting. By using ArtPakk, clients are not only protecting their art—they’re protecting the planet.

A Shared Mission for the Future

Surrey Art Fair 2025 proved to be more than just a market for buying and selling—it was a forum for innovation, community, and sustainability. We were inspired by the thoughtful questions from buyers and the enthusiasm of galleries exploring how to reduce their environmental footprint.

Whether it was first-time collectors or seasoned exhibitors, many walked away with a reusable ArtPakk bag—a small change that makes a significant difference. Our presence wasn’t just about promoting a product, but about encouraging a shift in how the art world thinks about transport and protection.

As the demand for sustainable alternatives grows, ArtPakk will continue to lead the conversation, offering practical solutions that respect both artwork and the environment.

From the conversations we had to the packaging solutions we delivered, ArtPakk’s involvement at Surrey Art Fair reaffirmed our belief: sustainability and quality can go hand in hand. We thank the organisers, exhibitors, and collectors for the warm reception and shared commitment to a greener future.

Let’s protect what we love—with intention, with care, and with ArtPakk.Discover our wholesale art packaging supplies and register for your trade account to receive 50% off of the retail value of our sustainable packaging solutions.  For further information, feel free to reach out  +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 info@artpakk.com and speak directly with our team.