Process of making stack
lead whiteTo make lead white, thin strips or coils of metallic lead is rolled and placed inside small ceramic pots, which contains small amount of vinegar at the bottom. The lead does not touch the vinegar directly; instead, it is exposed to the acetic acid vapors rising from it. These pots are then arranged in large stacks, typically inside a shed filled with horse manure in a specially built structure. The mixture of manure, vinegar and heat produces vapors that corrodes the lead sheets which then turns into white flake pigment.

MineralsIn addition to the excellent modern pigments we have today, I also have an interest in the mineral pigments used by painters prior to 1700.
Although they can be a bit challenging to work with - each often behaving differently depending on the medium - learning the unique properties of each pigment opens up new possibilities. What may seem like limitations at first can, in fact, inspire greater creativity.

GRINDING AZURITeGrinding azurite to make pigment is a delicate that dates back to antiquity. Azurite, a deep blue copper carbonate mineral, was highly prized by artists, especially in medieval and Renaissance Europe, for its rich blue hue. However, it's a fragile pigment to prepare and use, requiring patience and precision.

AZURITeGround, washed & graded azurite pigment.

Oils & VarnishesThe quality of oil is perhaps the most important thing to an artist (after the painting support). What oils to use at different stages of the painting or with a particular pigment is something that only experience & experiment will teach you.