Mixing Artist's Colours by Ron Gribble

Mixing Artist's Colours

Artists Mixing Colours

by Ron Gribble

Mixing colours is one of the biggest challenges artists face, no matter the medium, oils, watercolours, acrylics, pastels, or anything in between. Around 80% of my painting time is spent simply mixing paint. If there were a magic shortcut, I’d patent it and take it on a world tour!

While there’s no miracle fix, there are clear principles that can make the process much easier. If you have the passion, the talent, and you’re willing to put in the effort, these ideas will shorten the learning curve. I’ll expand on each in future posts, but here’s where to begin:

Key Things to Consider When Mixing Colours

• Know the colours on your palette.

Understanding your pigments is half the battle.

• Limit your mixes.

Three or four colours can create magic; any more usually turns to mud.

• Decide: hot or cold, and what value?

Temperature and value guide the mood and accuracy of your painting.

• Consider the atmosphere.

Light, distance, and conditions all affect how colours appear.

• Keep your workspace clean.

A messy palette leads to messy colours.

• Analyse before you mix.

Study the colour you want, and choose the closest match from your palette as a starting point.

Mastering colour mixing takes time, but learning these foundations will help you create cleaner, richer, and more intentional colours in every artwork.

Happy Painting

Ron Gribble