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Primary Colors - Pigment Selection
Our broad introduction to color theory explored how red, yellow, and blue prevailed as the foundation of the artist’s paint palette. Here we will discuss the practical challenge artists have faced to interpret these basic colors using pigments. We will see how external factors such as geography, trade, and technology affected the selection of these fundamental materials. This is a long one…
Primary Colors - An Introduction
The storied history of color theory has oft been fueled by an emotional and observational rather than scientific order of our color universe. Did pure colors arise, as thought by ancient Grecians, from the daily struggle observed between darkness and light? Subsequent theories were continually on offer regarding “basic”, “median”, “pure”, and of course, “primary” colors.
While the symbolism of color might assist an artist in the content of her work, it is not directly useful for the painter using pigments. Here we explore the path of the primary palette – how it came to be defined and how artists across the spectrum of time and place have applied it to the practical creation of their work.
Balsams
Balsams are natural emulsions of resins and essential oils (oleoresins) exuded from conifers. Called turpentines, they can be mixed with oils and solvents used in oil painting. They are insoluble and immiscible in water.
Many learning about these materials find the term “turpentine” confusing when applied to both the balsams and the product obtained from the distillation of the oleoresins.
Historical use of Shellac Ink
Is shellac ink a historical product or a new invention? How is this vehicle different from shellac varnish? Here we will explore the history of this unique emulsion.
Poppy Oil
Poppy oil can mitigate the fast drying effect of some pigments to reduce internal tensions in drying times of a paint layer. Excellent to use for wet-in-wet painting…
Linseed Oil
What is the difference between boiled linseed and stand oil? How do different processing methods effect a paint film?
Introduction to Drying Oils
Though linseed oil is the most commonly used drying oil, there are others such as walnut and poppy oil – as well as many others to greater or lesser success – which have been used throughout the history of painting.
Influence of Pigments on Drying of a Paint Film
Most pigments are chemically inert, but others can act as catalysts, promoting the drying reaction. The following groupings are gleaned from information in our artist manuals and experience of fellow artists…
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