For artists, the choice of color is essential in creating a unique and compelling work of art. Every color has its unique characteristics that can evoke different emotions and moods. Chinese White has found its place in the artist’s palette is versatile and vibrant. In this article, we will explore this color’s use and significance in the art world, providing insights into why it continues to be a popular choice among artists.
Chinese White by different brands
Find 3 manufacturer(s) of watercolors below. We’ve also compiled a list of our favorite art supplies here.
Chinese White – Winsor & Newton
Chinese White is a zinc based opaque white colour. Winsor & Newton were the first to sell Chinese White in England in 1834. It was named after the popular Chinese porcelain imported at the time.
When it comes to choosing colors for watercolor painting, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, consider the color wheel and how different colors interact with each other. Understanding complementary colors, warm and cool tones, and color harmonies can help you create dynamic and visually appealing artworks. Additionally, think about the subject matter and the mood you want to convey. For example, if you are painting a landscape, you may want to choose greens and blues for a calming and natural feel. Lastly, experiment with different brands and pigments to find colors that suit your style and technique. Remember, the color choices you make can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your artwork, so take your time and choose wisely.
Chinese White is a popular opaque watercolor pigment that is commonly used to create highlights, add texture, and lift out colors in a painting. It is a mixture of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which gives it a creamy white color and a smooth, buttery consistency. Chinese White was originally made from a type of kaolin clay found in China, which is where it gets its name. It has been used in watercolor painting since the 18th century.
One interesting fact about Chinese White is that it was traditionally used in Chinese calligraphy as a substitute for the expensive and rare pigment known as dragon’s blood. Dragon’s blood was a red pigment made from the resin of a certain tree, which was highly valued in ancient China for its vibrant color and alleged medicinal properties. However, due to its rarity and expense, Chinese calligraphers began using Chinese White instead to create the illusion of red ink.
How watercolor paint is made
Watercolor paint is typically made from a few simple ingredients:
pigments
binders
water
The pigments used in watercolor paints can be organic or inorganic compounds, such as minerals or synthetic chemicals. These pigments are finely ground and then mixed with a binder, which helps the pigment particles adhere to the paper when the paint is applied.
The most common binder used in watercolor paints is gum arabic, a natural resin extracted from the sap of the acacia tree. Gum arabic is mixed with the pigment to create a thick paste, which is then combined with water to create the final paint.
Other additives may be added to the paint to improve its performance or create specific effects. For example, some watercolor paints may include wetting agents to help the paint spread more evenly on the paper, or preservatives to extend the paint’s shelf life.
Testing newly made watercolor paint
Watercolor paints are available in a wide range of colors and textures, from transparent washes to opaque and granulated pigments. Different
manufacturers may use slightly different formulations or ingredients in their paints, which can affect the quality and performance of the paint.
If you’re interested in learning about other colors, check out our pages on Titanium White (Opaque White), Buff Titanium, and Hansa Yellow Deep, which provide in-depth information on these colors and their various shades.
If you liked the content, please do me a favor and share/link it.
