Question · 22 October 2026
Framing a Work on Paper: Glass, Light, Humidity
Framing and caring for a mixed media work on kraft paper: why it is shown under glass, how to protect it from light and humidity, and what to check before moving it.
Framing a work on paper, such as a mixed media piece in acrylic and Posca on kraft paper, calls for a frame under glass: paper, more fragile than canvas, is protected this way from dust, handling and shifts in humidity. "Le Voyageur," by Saadio, already sold, is one example: shown under glass at 60 by 50 centimetres, it illustrates well why this kind of framing suits that type of support.
Why glass rather than an open frame
Kraft paper reacts more to ambient air than canvas stretched on a frame does: a closed frame under glass limits contact with dust and humidity changes, while also protecting the surface from accidental contact. A whole series of Saadio's small-format kraft paper pieces follows this principle, for instance "Le dompteur 1," "Le défi" or "Tik Tok," each shown under glass at 60 by 50 centimetres.
Choosing a suitable mat
A mat that does not touch the painted surface directly keeps humidity or light pressure from damaging the paper over time. For a mixed media piece, where the acrylic and Posca create a slight texture, leaving space between the paper and the glass also protects the areas with the most built-up material.
Light and humidity
Paper withstands direct light less well than a thick canvas: avoid a wall exposed to sun for part of the day, and prefer soft accent lighting over a strong spotlight. During the rainy season in Dakar, as in any humid climate, watch for walls that pick up moisture and avoid hanging a work on paper against a poorly insulated outer wall.
Moving a piece under glass
Glass adds weight and a risk of breakage during transport: rigid packing, with padding that keeps the frame from shifting, remains essential. The guide on shipping artwork from Dakar covers packing and the documents to keep for this kind of shipment.
Seeing the piece before you choose
To judge the texture and real scale of a work on paper, the page for "Le Voyageur" remains viewable online, even though the piece is sold, as an example of this framing under glass. The guide on art for your home in Dakar covers choosing and hanging a piece at home, paper or canvas.
For any question
To find out which works on paper are currently available at Ge'eza's gallery, write on WhatsApp to +221 78 660 07 07 or to geezacultures@gmail.com.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a work on kraft paper shown under glass?
To protect it from dust, handling and shifts in humidity, since paper is more fragile than canvas.
Does a mixed media work on paper need a mat?
Yes, to avoid direct contact between the painted surface and the glass, especially where the acrylic and Posca create a slight texture.
How do I protect a work on paper from humidity?
By avoiding walls exposed to direct sun or damp, and keeping an eye on conditions during the rainy season.
Can a framed piece under glass be transported safely?
Yes, with rigid packing and padding that keeps the frame from shifting during the journey.
