Ochre

Ochre is one of the oldest pigments in use, a natural earth coloured by iron oxide. The yellow form is warm and a little muted, closer to clay than to lemon. It brings sunlight into a room without the intensity of a pure yellow, which makes it easier to use on large surfaces. Try it on a single wall, a sofa or a long run of curtains. It pairs well with deep browns, rust and oxblood, and with cool blues for contrast. Daylight keeps it golden; dim light pushes it towards brown.

2 palettes · 1 journal piece