Australian Salmon Gum | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Australian Salmon Gum | Matisse Studio acrylic paint

Australian Salmon Gum is a peachy, blushlike colour inspired by the distinctive bark of several tree species endemic to the Australian bush, from the wheatbelts of Western Australia all the way up to Gulf Country in Far North Queensland. Our muse, the striking Salmon Gum, Eucalyptus Salmonophloia changes colour seasonally to reveal rich and varied tones across its smooth dusky limbs, from warm pastel pinks to light orange rust and muted red earth. Its cyclical palette of striking colours reflects many of the remarkable tones we see in Australia’s natural environment, a landscape that artists are forever drawn to interpret for its unique hues and spectacular forms.

While European or ‘Old Masters’ pigments were traditionally developed to capture the colours of verdant, deep green landscapes in the northern hemisphere, the quality of Australian light differs significantly, producing a range of luminous and visually intense colours unique to our country. Many artists have noted this difference, seeking to achieve the same effects without the right pigments on hand. In response, Matisse formulated this carefully balanced colour through rigorous research and testing.

The resulting colour is a soft, light orange-pink that is both opaque and versatile, meeting the specific needs of landscape painters working in the Australian context. Interestingly, while its origin is deeply tied to landscapes, Australian Salmon Gum has found favour across a wide range of artistic genres. Its coral hue could easily have been embraced by the Fauves for their vibrant compositions or featured in Picasso’s Rose Period for its delicate warmth. This adaptability reflects the colour’s inherent charm and flexibility, transcending its original intent to suit a diverse range of painting applications.

Safety Data Sheet for Matisse STUDIO Australian Salmon Gum (SDS)

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