Online Course: Sustainable Pigments and Paints with Hanna Granlund

We are thrilled to announce an exclusive course on sustainable pigments and paints, led by Hanna Granlund. With a background in cultural studies and art history, Hanna is an expert in sustainability within the cultural sector. As a project coordinator, educator, and researcher at Intercult, she brings valuable insights into eco-friendly artistic practices.

Overview

This course provides artists with an in-depth, hands-on exploration of sustainable paint and pigment creation. Participants will engage with:

• Pigment Sourcing & Creation – Collecting raw materials and turning them into usable pigments through grinding, drying, and chemical processes.
• Sustainable Paint Mixing – Experimenting with binders and solvents to create paints with natural and eco-friendly components.
• Historical and Contemporary Insights – Learning from historical case studies and contemporary practices in sustainable art.
• Practical Applications & Experimentation – Testing self-made pigments and paints on various surfaces.
• Waste Management & Safe Practices – Understanding how to handle, dispose of, and recycle art materials responsibly.

The course is open to artists, educators, and cultural professionals eager to incorporate sustainability into their artistic practice. As the registration period has now closed, we look forward to welcoming a committed group of participants who will join this transformative experience.

Schedule

Session 1: Categorizing Paints and Pigments

Participants will receive an overview of paint and pigment categories, distinguishing between natural and synthetic sources. The session includes:

• Hands-on exercises identifying various pigments.
• Discussion on sustainability in pigment selection.
• Historical perspective on pigment use from ancient times to today.
• Case studies of historical and contemporary artworks using sustainable pigments.

Homework: Research the origin and characteristics of selected pigments and bring a dried-out or discarded paint material to the next session.

Session 2: Reviving Dried and Discarded Paints & The Global Pigment Industry

This session covers techniques for reviving dried-out paints such as acrylics, watercolors, and alcohol-based markers. While experimenting, participants will discuss:

• The global pigment industry and its impact on sustainability.
• The environmental cost of synthetic pigments and alternatives.
• Ways artists can influence the industry through their material choices.

Homework: Find a material to attempt turning into a pigment for the next session.

Session 3: Pigment Creation

Participants will explore various methods for creating pigments, including grinding, drying, and chemical processes. A case study on Falu red pigment from Sweden will highlight:

• The historical and environmental impact of pigment sourcing.
• The balance between repurposing industrial waste and sustainability.
• Ethical considerations in pigment production.

Homework: Identify two materials to use as solvents and binders for the next session.

Session 4: Paint Mixing and Application

A deep dive into paint-making, this session will focus on different pigment-binder combinations, including:

• Oil-based paints (e.g., oil & beeswax with umber).
• Egg tempera (e.g., egg yolk & ash for smooth application).
• Alcohol-based paints (e.g., alcohol & turmeric for vibrant dyes).
• Ink formulations and their varied applications in art.

Homework: Compare the financial costs of homemade versus commercially available pigments and paints.

Session 5: Painting Workshop & Sustainable Waste Management

The final session will be a combination of painting practice and lessons in eco-conscious waste management. Topics include:

• Identifying toxic substances in traditional paints.
• EU legislation on pigment production and disposal.
• Detoxifying paint water using bauxite.
• Developing long-term sustainable habits in artistic practice.

Final Showcase & Next Steps

Participants will showcase their newly created artworks, sharing insights gained throughout the residency. The final discussion will encourage artists to:

• Continue researching sustainable materials.
• Engage with local suppliers on eco-friendly pigment options.
• Advocate for more sustainable practices in the art industry.

This residency marks an important step toward environmentally responsible art practices.

We look forward to sharing the outcomes and insights from this program with the broader artistic community.