Ruby's Picks: Powdered Pigments

Every week, our trusted shop dog, Ruby, shares one of her favorite products. This week, she's focused on Powdered Pigments! At Douglas and Sturgess, we carry a variety of natural and synthetic pigments, as well as fluorescent pigments, phosphorescent pigments, metallic pigments, thermochromic and photochromic pigments and have the largest selection of pigments on the West Coast! Read on to find out more about these amazing materials.

Raw powdered pigments have been the cornerstone of artistic expression for millennia, offering artists a direct connection to nature and history. From the vibrant ochres of ancient cave paintings to the sophisticated color palettes of modern studios, raw pigments remain a fundamental element in the creation of art.

What Are Raw Pigments?

Raw/powdered pigments are natural or synthetic substances that impart color to materials. Unlike pre-mixed paints, raw pigments are in their pure, unprocessed form, allowing artists to mix and customize colors according to their needs. They come from a variety of sources, including minerals, plants, and even insects. 

Today, powdered pigments are prized not only for their historical value but also for their versatility and purity. Contemporary artists use them to achieve unique effects and colors that pre-mixed paints might not offer. By blending raw, powdered pigments with various mediums, artists can control the texture, opacity, and intensity of their colors. This process also allows for the creation of custom shades that are tailored to specific artistic visions.

Use: 

Powdered pigments can be mixed with a binder, such as oil, acrylic medium, or water, to create paint. The choice of binder affects the paint's texture and finish. For example, oil binders produce a smooth, glossy finish, while acrylics offer a more matte and fast-drying result. Powdered pigments can also be added to epoxies, plaster, cement etc. 

Challenges and Rewards:

Working with powdered pigments can be both challenging and rewarding. The process demands a thorough understanding of pigment properties, such as lightfastness (resistance to fading) and toxicity. Artists must also consider the safety measures needed to handle certain pigments, particularly those that are toxic or require special storage conditions.

Despite these challenges, the ability to work with raw pigments offers unparalleled creative freedom. Artists can experiment with color mixing, texture, and application techniques to achieve results that are uniquely their own. Additionally, the use of raw pigments can connect artists to centuries of tradition, linking modern practice with ancient methods.

In conclusion, raw pigments continue to be a vital part of the art world, bridging the gap between historical techniques and contemporary creativity. Whether used to replicate historical colors or to explore new possibilities, raw/powdered pigments offer a rich palette of possibilities for artists willing to embrace their potential.

So, with a palette as diverse as a dog park, now hopefully you see why I just love D&S pigments! Until next time, Ruby xx