Workshop: The Fundamentals of Colour – Introduction to Pigments, Dyes and Paint Binders

Join artist and pigment specialist, Lucy Mayes for a hands-on workshop exploring the art of natural colour making.  

In this session, participants will explore the rich and diverse world of pigments and will gain a foundational understanding of different types of colorants and their classification. This will be followed by an overview of pigment properties and particle morphology. The session will also include an introduction to Lucy's work as an artist and pigment maker, featuring a selection of raw materials, pigments, and equipment. 

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to deepen your practice, you’ll leave with new knowledge, hands-on experience, and your own handmade colours. 

About the session:    

The day will start with a short introduction to Lucy’s work as an artist and pigment maker, followed by a guided tour of her pigment collection – a cornucopia of raw and processed materials used as visual aids. There will be practical and hands-on demonstrations paired with in-depth exploration of earth pigments, paints, and inks – all made from scratch during the session.   

All ingredients and tools needed are supplied, as well as printed handouts, worksheets, and recipes to support continued learning after the workshop.  

Lucy’s workshops are warm, inclusive, and fun, offering a unique opportunity to learn traditional pigment and paint-making techniques in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Together, we’ll explore both practical processes and the theory and chemistry behind colour creation. Lucy is passionate about sharing her knowledge of the heritage of colour making, ensuring that every workshop is both creative and experimental while grounded in a solid understanding of traditional processes. She brings a balance of serious scholarship and intuitive skill, encouraging participants to learn through both study and instinct. 

Previous attendees said:  

“[I learned] far more than I expected about natural pigments, identifying them, using them and mixing them. I got what I wanted, which was to understand and experience how painters in the past created pigments. The tutor gave a huge amount of information and tips to allow us to experiment and to carry on after the workshop. She was friendly and approachable and did her best to answer all questions. We were given paper and tools that we needed and the whole day was well prepared.” 

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