CRYSTALLIZED WORKS CARE

My approach involves growing crystals directly on the sculptures while they are submerged in the solutions. I maintain only partial control over the crystallization process, as the crystals themselves determine their growth patterns. The whole process takes time, and the final outcome is always a delightful surprise

I work with stable types of crystals. These crystals don’t crumble or turn to dust over time. Properly cared they will retain their beauty and luster for a lifetime. However, it’s essential to take note of a few considerations to ensure your crystallized pieces remain in their pristine condition forever and ever:

• CLEANING: For general dusting, a soft, dry microfiber cloth, feather or microfiber duster, or a very soft artist’s brush is perfect. A gentle air blower can also help with tight spots. If needed, a barely damp microfiber cloth can be used on non‑crystal surfaces only. The sculptures spend a long time in solution, so they tolerate a little moisture there, but please avoid all cleaning products. For the crystals, use only dry dusting — avoid any damp cloth on those areas.

• Works must be kept indoors only.

• Although crystals are fairly robust, they are still less durable than stones, behaving somewhat like glass. I take the extra step of fixing them onto the sculpture’s surface, ensuring they remain firmly in place. However, please be careful as even with these measures, the sculpture could still be damaged if dropped.

• Please ensure that crystallized artwork is kept away from both water and direct sunlight. Crystals are water-soluble!! Be careful, do not expose them to water or other liquids. Direct sunlight can negatively affect on the paints.

• The best solution will be isolating artworks into display boxes or frames (depending on the form of the piece) to protect them from dust, differentials of temperature, and moisture. Limiting the impact of these external factors allows keeping as crystals as a whole sculpture in their original state for centuries. For indoor environments where relative humidity consistently exceeds 60% over the long term, it is recommended to use dehumidifiers or silica desiccants inside display cases. (Indoor humidity should not be confused with outdoor humidity, which usually differs significantly.)

• Adding lighting can truly make the crystals sparkle and shine mesmerizing! Make sure that you’re using cold light sources like LED to enhance their beauty. Although, actually crystals are able to withstand high temperatures, it is important to avoid thermal effects on polymer clay part of sculpture.

• Crystals are non-toxic. But they are still NOT EDIBLE.
  Please, do not try to taste them!!! As well as other parts of artwork by the way:)