Phthalo Blue | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Phthalo Blue | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Phthalo Blue, short for the chemical name phthaloine, is a synthetic organic pigment accidentally discovered by Scottish and Swiss chemists simultaneously during the early 20th Century. Originally observed as the intense blue byproduct of an unsuccessful production batch, the potential of this new pigment was swiftly recognised and adopted by many industries, offering remarkable tinting strength and stability in formulations. Among artists, Phthalo Blue is renowned for its intense greenish blue hue and unparalleled staining power. Even in its diluted form with extenders, Phthalo remains incredibly potent, requiring restraint when mixing. The transparency and clarity of this colour imbue it with a deep jewel-like radiance, perfect for portraying luminous subjects like water, glass, or translucent surfaces.

Phthalo Blue’s unique appeal lies in its ability to create an unparalleled range of greens. Considered the ‘default’ cool blue, mixing this colour with Aureolin or Transparent Yellow Oxide yields deep, characterful greens reminiscent of Hooker’s Green. Bright, “artificial” greens can be achieved with Cadmium Yellows, while natural olive tones emerge when paired with Iso Yellow or Cadmium Orange. Its versatility also shines in creating sky and water tones, especially when blended with softer hues like Australian Sky Blue or Ghost Gum.

Safety Data Sheet for Matisse STUDIO Phthalo Blue (SDS)

To view or download a copy SDS, please  CLICK HERE * (271kb)  
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