Mold on art work
We got our information from about.com & The New Orleans Conservation Guild
For works on paper they say: “If there is active mold growing on it a light spray of Lysol [a brand of anti-germ/bacteria cleaner] helps to kill the mold until it can be treated, but bring them in quickly for proper treatment.” Read further details…
For works on canvas they say: “Lightly spray (do not saturate) the canvas, front and back, with Lysol spray (not the liquid). This will help arrest the mold growth, and you may need to repeat this a few times. When the mold is dry and powdery it is now dormant.”
You can then brush off the mold (outdoors!) “Remember to wear a mask so as not to inhale the airborne spores, and be sure to remove all the debris from the back and not to allow it to accumulate under the stretcher bars! Do not wipe the mold off.” Read further details…