Artefex Panels
Archival aluminum-backed panels from a small maker who will work with you, among the most archival supports available, the rigid surface I reach for on serious work.
Artefex makes ACM panels: oil- or acrylic-primed linen and cotton mounted on a rigid aluminum-composite board. Aluminum does not absorb moisture, warp, or rot, so it is about as archival as a support gets. For a finished piece meant to last, a rigid aluminum-backed panel removes most of the long-term risks of a flexible stretched canvas.
Artefex is excellent. Anton has come through for me more than once, including custom panels, and they are among the most archival options available. I generally prefer a rigid surface over stretched canvas, and for important work an aluminum-backed panel is hard to beat.
What it is. Oil- or acrylic-primed linen and cotton mounted on rigid ACM aluminum-composite panel, in standard and custom sizes.
Why it matters. Aluminum is dimensionally stable and will not warp or take on moisture, so the paint film stays flat and protected. The rigid panel also lets you scrape and work the surface without the give of stretched canvas.
The tradeoff. Aluminum panels cost more than stretched canvas and add weight, and the cost climbs at large sizes. For a finished, archival piece that tradeoff is usually worth it.
Yes. They are oil- or acrylic-primed linen or cotton on a rigid aluminum-composite board, which holds the paint film flat and is highly archival. Aluminum will not warp or absorb moisture the way wood or stretched canvas can.
Both are good, and a working painter often uses more than one. Artefex is known for archival aluminum-composite panels and custom work; Raymar carries a wide range of linens and textures in one place. Match the surface to the painting rather than staying loyal to one maker.