Uploaded November 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Black pigments absorb most wavelengths of visible light, producing what appears to be the absence of colour. It’s often said that the French Impressionist painters of the nineteenth century eliminated black pigments from their palettes. Many Impressionists did indeed prefer to mix multiple colours together to make chromatic dark values. This makes the darkness feel more alive, as pure black can sometimes have a deadening effect. The earliest black pigments were made using charcoal, soot, and charred animal bones, and today we still use similar carbon-based black colours.
We're thrilled to announce the publication of ‘Pigment Stories’, a book by Jackson’s made up of sixty richly-illustrated pigment entries that bring the history of artists’ colour to life.
A book for artists and art enthusiasts alike, ‘Pigment Stories’ reveals the hidden secrets behind pigments, uncovering tales of discovery, innovation, and transformation. We hope it offers new ways to see and appreciate the materials that have defined art across time.
Only 3 days until 'Pigment Stories' is released. Pre-order now on our website: jacksonsart.com/pigment-stories-book-by-jackson-s-art?utm_campaign=ps_preorder_black&utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organicsocial&utm_content=youtube_social_organic_shorts_to_ecom
Filmed by the Jackson's Team in the Jackson's Studio. This film features Evie Hatch, Studio and Materials Specialist at Jackson’s Art Supplies.
Black pigments absorb most wavelengths of visible light, producing what appears to be the absence of colour. It’s often said that the French Impressionist painters of the nineteenth century eliminated black pigments from their palettes. Many Impressionists did indeed prefer to mix multiple colours together to make chromatic dark values. This makes the darkness feel more alive, as pure black can sometimes have a deadening effect. The earliest black pigments were made using charcoal, soot, and charred animal bones, and today we still use similar carbon-based black colours.
We're thrilled to announce the publication of ‘Pigment Stories’, a book by Jackson’s made up of sixty richly-illustrated pigment entries that bring the history of artists’ colour to life.
A book for artists and art enthusiasts alike, ‘Pigment Stories’ reveals the hidden secrets behind pigments, uncovering tales of discovery, innovation, and transformation. We hope it offers new ways to see and appreciate the materials that have defined art across time.
Only 3 days until 'Pigment Stories' is released. Pre-order now on our website: jacksonsart.com/pigment-stories-book-by-jackson-s-art?utm_campaign=ps_preorder_black&utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organicsocial&utm_content=youtube_social_organic_shorts_to_ecom
Filmed by the Jackson's Team in the Jackson's Studio. This film features Evie Hatch, Studio and Materials Specialist at Jackson’s Art Supplies.
