Why Do Paintings Last for Centuries — But Your Favorite Poster Fades in Months?

Paintings last a long time because they’re made with special kinds of paint that don’t break down easily. Posters are made from paper and ink, which can get ruined by sunlight or moisture, just like how your juice box gets soggy if it sits in water too long.

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Examples

  1. A painting from the 1600s is still bright, but a poster on your wall has faded after just two years.
  2. Your grandma’s favorite portrait hasn’t changed in decades, it's like time stood still for it.
  3. Posters stuck outside in the sun get ruined by sunlight, while old paintings inside a museum stay vibrant.

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Categories: Art · art preservation· painting techniques· poster fading· material science· color degradation