Description
Phthalo Green | Matisse Studio acrylic paint
The pigment Phthalocyanine was first discovered independently by Swiss and Scottish chemists in 1907, but it was initially met with indifference. As the accidental outcome of failed equipment, these chemists note the outcome but were keen to avoid the deep blue substance that had materialised on their equipment. The pigment lay dormant for years until a similar lab mishap occurred in 1935, sparking the curiosity of scientists. Upon closer examination, they discovered the pigment’s extraordinary qualities—its intense colour and resistance to light made it an ideal candidate for commercialization. Further experiments with chlorine replaced the blue tone with an intense green hue, which we now know as Phthalo Green.
Initially, this bright, intense green met resistance among artists, particularly those who favoured the softer, more muted Viridian. However, with the advent of acrylic paints in the 1950s, Phthalo Green quickly became the dominant dark green, as Viridian was unsuitable for this new medium. Its remarkable tinting strength, transparency, and clean, jewel-like quality made it an artist favourite across various mediums.
Phthalo Green is now a staple in modern painting, valued for its versatility in colour mixing. Its rich, transparent quality lends itself beautifully to creating a range of greens, from the subdued tones achieved by mixing with Yellow Oxide, to the more intense shades when combined with Cadmium Yellow Medium, resulting in cadmium green or, with more Phthalo Green, Brunswick green. Mixing Phthalo Green with cool reds like Matisse Rose Madder creates a striking transparent black, showcasing its depth and complexity in mixed colours, making it an invaluable tool in an artist's palette.
