Move your wooden art into an area that only experiences indirect sunlight, as sunlight can bleach the artwork. If the wood art is displayed outdoors, watch the sun's path carefully before installing the art in your garden, making sure the piece will never be exposed to direct sunlight. Indoor art should be kept away from sunny windows.
Raise wooden art that is kept outdoors up and away from any contact with the ground to prevent rotting. Install furniture glides to the bottom of the artwork to help prevent this from happening.
Clean your wooden art when it becomes dusty. Brush any grooved areas with a clean paintbrush, following the direction of the grain of the wood. Gently wipe the entire artwork with a slightly damp cloth, always making sure to follow the grain of the wood.
Apply a coat of spar urethane to your wooden art annually, if the piece is kept outdoors. Dip your paintbrush into the can of spar urethane, and brush directly onto your wooden art, following the grain of the wood. Allow the piece to dry completely before handling it.
Bring your wooden artwork inside for the winter season. Water and snow can settle into small cracks of the wood and freeze, causing the crack to expand and risking damage to the piece. Avoid extreme temperatures even with work kept indoors.