In the enchanted land of Iceland, the earth’s story unfolds before you. It’s one of those places where you can stand between two techtonic plates, inside a crater, at the foot of an active volcano and within a larva tube, whilst at night being bewitched forever as you stand beneath the dancing aurora.
So when some Icelandic watercolour paints created from pigments collected from the West of Iceland around Snafellsjoekull volcano rocked up in the post for me, from my husband, I could hardly contain my excitement.
To paint with watercolours made from pigments collected from areas I have visited is so magical. These are made by Ruby Mountain Paint Company. What an adventure I am going to have with these wee earthy paints, I can’t wait…
I also have paints made in Cumbria from pigments collected in this area by Florence Paintmakers. At Castlerigg Stone Circle in Cumbria, the St Bees Yellow accompanied me to this amazing Ancient Site and became the colour for the background. I love painting outside with the pigments collected from the local area.
If this is something you’ve not thought about before, have a go. I would love to know how you get on.
The Walking Sketchbook 
Oh wow! This is amazing. I’ve never heard of watercolours produced locally like these. I wonder if its done here in New Zealand… will have to keep my eyes open and visit some art shops. I’m off now to tell a blog-friend about this post.
Isn’t it amazing! If you find out about New Zealand watercolours, I would love to know. I found Ruby Mountain company through Instagram. Thank you for sharing my blog. 🍃
You’re welcome! Your take on art and colour and nature is fascinating 🙂
Thank you. It feels natural to me and I see it another way to connect with nature. Something which I need to do.
I think it is a lovely idea to paint with locally produced colors. Unfortunately, my painting skills do not exist, unlike yours!
Thank you Tanja. My skills built up over a number of years. You could see it more as mark-making on paper and bring in ink and other materials and see how it develops over time. The important thing is to have fun whilst doing it. I love painting outside. If you have a go I would love to know.