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The broad and fertile Eden Valley of Westmorland is surrounded by high hills between the Lake District which lies to the west and the high fells of the North Pennines (ANOB), with the Yorkshire Dales to the south.

The undulating red sandstone hills covering the valley floor are fossilized red sand dunes laid down some 450 million years ago. They re-appear along the Welsh borders (Cumbria, Cheshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and the Brecon Beacons in South Wales) and the valley of the river Severn and under the Bristol channel into Devon.
From an artist's viewpoint, the colours extracted from the sandstones and clays in the area tend to be reddish or orangey browns which are coloured and stained by rusty iron oxide.


Rich and Vibrant Color: Red ochre pigment provides a beautiful and intense red- brown colour. It has been used for centuries in art and decoration due to its warm and earthy tone. The natural color of red ochre can add depth and richness to your artwork, crafts, and various creative projects.

Versatility: Red ochre pigment is highly versatile and can be used in various mediums. It can be mixed with different binders, such as oils, watercolors, acrylics, or even mixed media. It works well on different surfaces like canvas, paper, wood, and more, allowing artists to explore a wide range of artistic expressions.

Lightfastness: Red ochre pigment is known for its excellent lightfastness, meaning it resists fading or discoloration when exposed to light over time. This makes it a reliable choice for long-lasting artwork that will retain its vibrant red color for years.

Natural and Earth-Friendly: Red ochre is a naturally occurring pigment, typically derived from iron oxide minerals found in the earth. It is considered an environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic pigments, as it doesn't contain harmful chemicals or additives.

Historical Significance: Red ochre has a rich historical significance and has been used by various cultures throughout history. Its use dates back to prehistoric times, where it was used in cave paintings and rock art. By using red ochre pigment, artists can connect with a long artistic tradition and add a touch of historical authenticity to their work.

Textural Effects: Red ochre pigment can create interesting textural effects when used in various techniques, such as layering, glazing, or impasto. Its unique properties can enhance the visual appeal of artwork, adding depth, texture, and dimension to the final piece.
Cultural Symbolism: Red ochre pigment has cultural and symbolic associations in different parts of the world. It has been used in traditional ceremonies, rituals, and artwork as a symbol of power, protection, spirituality, or even as a representation of the earth itself. By using red ochre, artists can tap into these cultural associations and convey deeper meanings through their creations.

When purchasing red ochre pigment, artists and enthusiasts can benefit from its beautiful color, versatility, longevity, and the unique characteristics it brings to their artwork.

The red ochres have been named after the nearby villages or prominent landmarks closes to were they have been found.


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  • Earth Pigments

    A Range of Ochres and Earth Pigments

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  • Colour through Alchemy

    A selection of historic early pigments

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  • Elusive Blue Pigments

    Historically blue is among the rarest of colours

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  • Master Watercolour Making Kit

    Make your own professional watercolours

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  • Windermere Blues

    A range of Ultramarines were made south of Windermere for over 100 years.

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  • Elusive Blues and Greens

    Historic Bice and Verditer pigments

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  • Alchemy Experiences and Courses

    Unique artist's six-hour immersive experience in pigment and paint-making

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