This is an art book which highlights the possibility of using natural, organic materials as art supplies and inspiration.

The history of art is inseparable from the history of color. And what a fascinating story they tell together: one that brims with an all-star cast of characters, eye-opening details, and unexpected detours through the annals of human civilization and scientific discovery. Enter critically acclaimed writer and popular journalist Victoria Finlay, who here takes readers across the globe and over the centuries on an unforgettable tour through the brilliant history of color in art. Written for newcomers to the subject and aspiring young artists alike, Finlay’s quest to uncover the origins and science of color will beguile readers of all ages with its warm and conversational style. Her rich narrative is illustrated in full color throughout with 166 major works of art—most from the collections of the J. Paul Getty Museum. Readers of this book will revel in a treasure trove of fun-filled facts and anecdotes. Were it not for Cleopatra, for instance, purple might not have become the royal color of the Western world. Without Napoleon, the black graphite pencil might never have found its way into the hands of Cézanne. Without mango-eating cows, the sunsets of Turner might have lost their shimmering glow. And were it not for the pigment cobalt blue, the halls of museums worldwide might still be filled with forged Vermeers. Red ocher, green earth, Indian yellow, lead white—no pigment from the artist’s broad and diverse palette escapes Finlay’s shrewd eye in this breathtaking exploration.

A study of the development and use of artists' colours.

Here's how to locate the best spots of land around you, gather natural pigments, and turn them into paints, pastels, inks, and more.

The Artist's Color Guide - Watercolor is an inspiring yet practical guide to using color. Experienced artist and teacher Hazel Soan takes each color of the rainbow and demonstrates how to use the pigments to maximum effect and with lots of practical hints and tips. By exploring all the colors of the palette, this book aims to broaden the knowledge of every watercolor artist-- whatever their experience level-- so they can approach choosing and mixing colors with confidence and achieve the most striking results in their paintings.