Found and Ground

“How to forage colorful materials in a variety of locales . . . an enjoyable take on how artists can get in touch with the natural world.” —Publishers Weekly

Foraging for pigments and creating paints from scratch is both life-affirming and fascinating, and this book teaches new skills while also introducing the reader to the land outside their door.

Starting with a foreword by award-winning author and environmentalist Paul Kingsnorth, Found and Ground covers every aspect of making natural paints, from finding the raw materials to the techniques needed to refine it into a pigment. Suitable for the complete beginner as well as those with some experience in art, it will also appeal to those with experience in drawing and painting, but who until now have only used shop-bought materials to make their work.

Found and Ground is the ideal reference book for artists and crafters wishing to move away from plastics (such as those found in acrylic paints), and use natural paints in their place. The book covers how to make a series of simple natural paints such as watercolor, gouache, tempera, and glair. It also includes innovative vegan “egg paint” alternatives.

Aimed at a general readership, all specialist art terminology is clearly and simply explained, and all the techniques demonstrated through step-by-step instructions. The book will also give fresh ideas to those stuck in a rut with their use of watercolors, and introduce readers to try new “old ideas.” Most importantly, it will teach readers how to forage and gather successfully and safely.

“Look to the included watercolor galleries of artist works for inspiration. Nature repurposed is nature enhanced.” —Booklist