Rich History of Manuscript Pen Company: From Small Beginnings to Modern Innovation.

Origins and Early Days:

In the bustling city of Birmingham in 1856, a legacy was born. Founded by Diedrich Leonardt, D. Leonardt & Co. quickly became renowned worldwide for its exceptional nibs. With over 3,000 employees, the company was at the heart of Birmingham’s booming pen trade, supplying nibs of all shapes and sizes.

Illustration with Trademark

Competition and Expansion:

As the pen trade flourished, so did competition. In 1870, Andrew Charles founded T. Hessin & Co., looking to capitalize on Birmingham’s success. Despite this, D. Leonardt & Co. continued to expand rapidly, gaining four more premises in Birmingham and merging with Hewitt & Co. The late 19th century saw D. Leonardt emerge as the fastest-growing manufacturer in the West Midlands, paving the way for international expansion.

Innovation and Prestige:

Following the footsteps of their father, Charles and Alvis Leonardt forged connections in South America and Europe, eventually becoming penmakers to the Kings of Italy, Spain, and Portugal. This era also saw the birth of the iconic 'Eureka Pen,' later known as the ball-point pen, through a collaboration with inventive genius Hezekiah Hewitt.

Surviving Hardship:

The World Wars brought unprecedented challenges, with all resources redirected to support the British Government’s war effort. However, the spirit of innovation persisted. In 1947, Arthur Charles, the grandson of Andrew Charles, established the Highley Pen Company in an old fire station in Highley, Shropshire. Two years later, Highley Pen Company merged with D. Leonardt & Co., combining their expertise in nibs, dip pens, and stationery.

A Legacy Continued:

As Britain emerged from the devastation of the Second World War, the pen industry underwent restructuring. In the 1980s, Manuscript Pen Company was formed, focusing on calligraphy products and school fountain pens under the holding group Highley Pens LTD.

A Modern Vision:

Today, Manuscript Pen Company stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and innovation. Under the leadership of Charlie Stockbridge, the company continues to uphold the values instilled by its forefathers – quality, innovation, and creativity. As we celebrate over 150 years since the founding of D. Leonardt & Co., Manuscript Pen Company remains committed to delivering exceptional products that inspire creativity and expression in every hand that holds them.

Whether you are a seasoned calligrapher or simply a lover of fine writing instruments, fountain pens and nibs are sure to captivate and inspire.

Range of Manuscript Leonardt Dip Nibs

Explore the entire collection of nib novelties here or visit our offline store for hands-on experience. If you found this article helpful, do like and share!

Happy inking!

Exploring the Versatility: A Guide to Extensive Range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical Pencils

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth is a unique brand in the realm of mechanical pencils, offering a wide array of options, including sizes that are rare in the industry. They produce mechanical pencils in sizes ranging from 0.3mm to 5.6mm, covering the spectrum of lead thicknesses needed for various artistic and technical applications. Notably, Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth is the only European company producing mechanical pencils for leads thicker than 5.6 mm, catering to the needs of artists and draftsmen who require such versatility in their tools.

Extensive Range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical/Clutch Pencils

Let’s understand in detail about some of their remarkable offerings:

Range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth mechanical clutch pencil in 5.6mm size:

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Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5311 Clutch Pencil:

This Mechanical clutch pencil likely offers a classic design with a comfortable grip for extended use. It may feature a durable metal construction and a reliable mechanism for advancing and retracting the lead.

They come in three types- Black with black colour push button and tip cone, Gray colour barrel with nickel plated rivet and tip cone and Gray colour barrel but with black rivet and tip cone.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5305 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5305 Mechanical clutch pencil has a sleek and ergonomic design made of plastic and metal body to incorporating modern materials for both style and durability. It includes built-in sharpener with a plastic pocket clip for added convenience.

They come in range of 6 colours- Yellow, Red, Black, Green, Blue and White.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5344 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5344 model is a short mechanical propelling pencil, metal-plastic combination, lead diameter 5.6 mm, used for common writing and drawing. The lead is moved by pressing the knob in leaned pencil position, which opens the clamp and the lead is slid out. The lead may not be sharpened, the pencil does not have a sharpener. The plastic triangle envelope in black colour, without clip, metal mechanical parts.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5340 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5340 Mechanical clutch pencil stand out with a unique design elements completely made of Metal body and a built-in push button sharpener. It offers enhanced confort and control for precise drawing or drafting tasks, making it a favourite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

They include two colours- Gold and Silver.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5370 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5370 Mechanical propelling pencil likely offers a robust and reliable design suitable for various drawing and drafting applications. It features a sturdy mechanism and a comfortable grip due to its wooden and metal body. It lead can be advanced and retracted with the help of a push button thereby providing artists to work constructively.

These clutch pencils are subdivided as per the wooden material used in the body as- Oak, Ash, Mahogany, Walnut and Wood

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5348 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5348 clutch pencil is characterized by its ergonomic design and innovative features like plastic and metal body, built-in sharpener and nickel plated metal parts.

It has advance materials for improved durability and performance, along with specialized grip patterns for enhanced comfort and control.

They come in 4 types of colours- Black, Light blue, Pink and Light green.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5320 and 5321 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5320 and 5321 clutch pencils offer a balance of functionality and affordability, making it a popular choice among students, hobbyists, and professionals alike. They feature a simple yet sturdy construction which also includes a gold-plated wire pocket clip and metal wire clip for 5320 and 5321 respectively with a built-in sharpener and push button.

They are characterized by different barrel colours- Red, Blue (5320) and, Black, Green (5321).

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5301 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5301 Mechanical propelling pencil is designed with versatility in mind, offering a sleek plastic and lightweight construction ideal for on-the-go use.

It features a slim profile and a convenient pocket clip, allowing users to carry it comfortable in a pencil case or shirt pocket while ensuring easy access whenever possible. It comes in two colours- Yellow and black.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5347 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

The 5347 model stands out with its attention to detail and precise engineering made up of metal and plastic body. The clutch pencil comes without a pocket clip and built-in sharpener.

They are ranged into two colour types- Black and Red.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5330 and 5331 Mechanical Clutch Pencil:

These models come with a unique spring push button making it convenient for lead advancement and retraction and the entire body is made of metal body. The 5330 clutch pencil barrel is yellow in colour whereas 5331 comes green in colour.

There are other range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical clutch pencil characterised by their body, colour and other mechanical parts.
Here are a few listed below-
5359: Silver metal barrel, metal pocket clip, built in sharpener and push button

5310: Black metal barrel, built-in sharpener and push button

5344: Black Plastic and metal barrel and push button

5305: Plastic and metal barrel, built-in sharpener, push button and plastic pocket clip and, comes in range of 6 colours- yellow, black, red, blue, green and white.

5306: Black plastic and metal body, ergonomically designed plastic grip, built-in sharpener, push button and metal pocket clip.

Let’s further understand in detail about wide range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical Mechanical Clutch Pencil of 2mm lead diameter.

Range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical Clutch Pencil of 2mm Lead Diameter

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5201 Mechanical clutch pencil:

The 5201 is a classic mechanical clutch pencil known for its simplicity and reliability. It’s a popular choice among artists, architects, and draftsmen for its sturdy construction and comfortable grip. It typically features a metal barrel with a knurled grip for better control and a mechanism for advancing and retracting the lead. It’s suitable for a wide range of drawing, drafting and writing tasks, making it a versatile tool for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5228 Mechanical clutch pencil:

The 5228 mechanical propelling pencil known for it’s durability and practicality. It is designed with a sturdy metal barrel and a simple yet reliable mechanism for advancing and retracting the lead, allowing for precise drawing and drafting. It’s favourite among artists, engineers, and students for its versatility and affordability. It has a built-in sharpener and metal pocket clip.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5217 Mechanical clutch pencil:

The 5217 model comes in a set of 6 different shades of barrel colors with corresponding colour pastel leads of diameter 2 mm - colour pencils, yellow, green, blue, red, black, and brown + eraser allowing users to personalize their drawing or drafting experience. It typically features a durable metal barrel and a comfortable grip for extended use.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5218 Mechanical clutch pencil:

This model is known for its reliability and ergonomic design. It feature sturdy metal barrel and a comfortable plastic grip, making it suitable for extended drawing or drafting sessions. It is equipped with a metal pocket clip and push button mechanism for advancing and retracting the lead, allowing for precise control over line thickness. It’s a popular choice among artists, architects, and engineers for its durability and ease of use. They come in a set of 5 different barrel colours- Yellow, Green, blue, red and violet.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5219 Mechanical clutch pencil:

The 5219 model has similar specifications to 5218 mechanical clutch pencil but with an exception in the grip which is of Metal. They also come in different barrel colours like Yellow, Green, Blue, Red and Violet.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5209 Mechanical clutch pencil:

5209 model has a plastic and metal barrel with a comfortable plastic grip. It consists of built-in sharpener and a push button mechanism for advancing and retracting the lead along with a metal pocket clip providing users to carry it comfortably in a pencil case or shirt pocket

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5208 Mechanical clutch pencil:

5208 is a clutch pencil with both wooden and metal barrel and is designed without a pocket clip and features a built-in sharpener and push- button mechanism for advancing the lead. The wooden and metal barrel offers a classic, natural yet sleek look thereby making it durable. This clutch pencil is favoured by artists and draftsmen for its versatility and convenience, allowing for easy sharpening and lead advancement during drawing and sketching sessions.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5905 Mechanical clutch pencil:

5905 clutch pencil comes with a metal barrel, metal pocket clip, built-in sharpener, and push-button mechanism. It also features a distinctive white and gold stripe around the perimeter at the end. This elegant design detail adds a touch of sophistication and style to the clutch pencil, making it not only a practical tool but also a virtually appealing accessory for artists and draftsmen.

They also cover a range of 0.3mm to 0.9mm Mechanical pencils and these are ideal for common writing, drawing and drafting. 

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5004 & 5005 Mechanical pencils:

This series of mechanical pencils comes with a lead diameter of 0.3mm. Both these pencils share a common feature of Rubber grip, Eraser, and Metal clip. Only differences are-

Model 5004 has sleeve colour mix of Black, Red, blue whereas,

Model 5005 has dark blue sleeve, yellow ring, and a rotary extension of the eraser.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5780 Mechanical pencil:

Series of model number 5780 Mechanical propelling pencil has a lead diameter of 0.5mm, case diameter of 9.13mm, in the widest part of the clip 11.52mm, length 152mm, plastic barrel with metal tip and a plastic pocket clip, and rubber grip.

They come in two series of colours- Transparent Blue and Transparent Red.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5034 and 5035 Mechanical pencils:

These two mechanical pencil models have a lead diameter of 0.5mm. Both these pencils share a common feature of Metal and Plastic Sleeve, Rubber grip, Eraser, and Metal clip. Exception being-

Model 5034 has sleeve colour mix of Black, Red, blue without an eraser whereas,

Model 5035 has dark blue sleeve, brown ring, and a rotary extension of the eraser.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5054 and 5055 Mechanical pencils:

These two mechanical pencil models has a lead diameter of 0.7mm. Both these pencils share a common feature of Metal and Plastic Sleeve, Rubber grip, Eraser, and Metal clip. Only differences are-

Model 5054 has sleeve colour mix of Black, Red, blue without an eraser whereas,

Model 5055 has dark blue sleeve, blue ring, and a rotary extension of the eraser.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5074 Mechanical pencils:

5074 mechanical pencil model has a lead diameter of 0.9mm. It has a Metal and Plastic Sleeve colour mix: black, red and blue, Rubber grip, Eraser, and Metal clip

In addition to these Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth offers two other exclusive types of mechanical clutch pencils-

Exclusive range of 2.5mm and 3.2mm Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Mechanical pencils

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5358 Mechanical clutch pencil:

Mechanical propelling pencil with lead diameter 3.2 mm, metal, for common writing and drawing. The lead is moved by pressing the knob in leaned pencil position, which opens the clamp and the lead is slid out. There is a sharpener in the knob and the lead can be sharpened after screwing the sharpener out. The black pencil envelope has round profile, diameter 12.3 mm, clip on the envelope. 

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5205, 5208 & 5905 Mechanical Clutch pencil:

The entire series of these mechanical pencil models come with a lead diameter of 2.5 mm, sharpener at the tip, no pocket clip and barrel is made from hexagonal profile but with following exceptions:

Model 5205: Metal barrel varnished with yellow paint and does not have a pocket clip.

Model 5208: Metal and wood combined barrel, no pocket clip

Model 5905: Comes in two series. Both have a metal barrel varnished with with black paint, white and golden circumferential strips at the end by the pressing knob except one has a metal pocket clip whereas other has no clip.

Lastly, Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth has introduced an extraordinary chalk holder capable of holding a lead with a diameter of 9mm.

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 9mm Chalk Holder

Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth 5343 Mechanical Chalk Holder:

Mechanical propelling pencil without clip - chalk holder - intended for writing and chalk drawing, diameter 9.0 mm. The chalk is moved by pressing the knob in leaned pencil position, which opens the clamp and the chalk is slid out. The chalk may not be sharpened, the holder does not have a sharpener. Round envelope, 16 mm in diameter, metal, sprayed with black powder paint, metal mechanical parts. 

If you’re looking for these wide collection of Mechanical/ Clutch pencils, visit our offline store at Kala Ghoda, Mumbai for for a hands-on experience, or shop from Art Lounge website for convenient browsing. Don’t forget to like and share this guide if you found it helpful – let’s spread the joy of creativity together!

7 Essential Oil Painting Techniques Every Artist Should Master

If you've been dabbling with oil paints, it's time to uplift your artistry. Oil painting offers a myriad of techniques to enhance your creations and bring them to life. But before understanding these techniques, let's explore the three fundamental rules of oil painting:

1. 'Fat over Lean': Each layer of paint should be more flexible than the one beneath it, preventing cracking as you work.

Image Courtesy- Sphie Ploeg

2. 'Thick over Thin': Progressively add thicker layers of paint to ensure depth and richness in your artwork.

Thick over thin paint layers

3. 'Slow-Drying over Fast-Drying': Allow each layer to dry slowly to maintain the integrity of your painting.

Now, let's understand the essential oil painting techniques:

Calling of St. Matthew (detail)
Caravaggio
1599–1600,
Oil on canvas,
San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome

Technique 1. Chiaroscuro: Create dramatic contrasts between light and dark, adding depth and dimension to your compositions. Creates drama and a 3D illusion in the painting. This technique was used by Renaissance artists like Rembrandt and Caravaggio.

Snow Storm: Steam-Boat off a Harbour’s Mouth (detail)
Joseph Mallord William Turner,
1842,
Tate, London, Great Britain

Technique 2. Scumbling: Use a dry, stiff brush to apply thin layers of paint, adding texture and complexity to your artwork. It results in a non-smooth finish with underpainting exposed. The technique was favoured by artists like Turner.

Alla Prima Technique

Technique 3. Alla Prima: Paint in layers without letting the base layer fully dry, this is also known as ‘wet-on-wet’. Ideal for capturing fleeting moments and was favoured by artists like Van Gogh and Monet for completing paintings in a single sitting.

The Milkmaid (detail)
Johannes Vermeer
c. 1658–1661
Oil on canvas, 45.5 x 41 cm.
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Technique 4. Glazing: Apply transparent layers over an opaque base to achieve a luminous, multi-faceted effect. This technique was utilized by artists like Vermeer.

Underpainting technique

Technique 5. Underpainting: Sketch your subject thinly to establish composition and form before adding layers of color thereby blocking out background for later detailing. It was used by artists like Jan Van Eyck and Giotto.

Impasto technique

Technique 6. Impasto: Apply thick strokes of paint with deliberate texture, adding tactile richness to your paintings. Colours are mixed directly on the canvas. This technique is prominent in works by artists like Vincent Van Gogh.

Grisaille underpainting technique in A Girl with a Pearl Earring
Johannes Vermeer
c. 1665
Oil on canvas,
Mauritshuis, The Hague, Netherlands

Technique 7. Grisaille: The technique refers to the art of painting in monochrome, using black, white and grey to show light, dark and shading. It was used regularly during the renaissance period.

Experiment with these techniques to enhance your skills and create beautiful masterpieces. And when you're ready to explore high-quality art supplies to fuel your creativity, visit Art Lounge store for a curated selection of Oil paints, brushes, and mediums. Share your masterpieces with us on our instagram page and inspire others to better their own artistic journey. Happy painting!

How to Sketch Using Pencil and Thumb Method!

In the journey of every budding artist, the path to mastering proportions begins with acute observation and relentless sketching practice. While this skill is inherently developed, there’s a valuable technique known as the thumb-and-pencil method that aids in estimating and verifying proportions with remarkable accuracy.

Here’s a step by step guide on how to use your eye along with your pencil and thumb to estimate proportions when drawing-

Place your pencil or pen in your hand and then holding it at arms length between your eye and the object that you plan to draw.

Slide the pencil up or down, to increase or decrease its length between the points ‘a’ and ‘b’, (shown above). This way you will be able to check the height of the object as shown below.

The further you are from the object, the shorter will be the distance between ‘a’ and ‘b’. This measurement is used to check the height of your drawing by simply holding your hand and pencil near the surface of the paper. The width is checked (as shown above).

In this example, the artist applies the pencil and thumb measuring method we discussed earlier. They determine that the tiger's head is 6 times the length of its body. Using this scale, they also measure the tiger's height, finding it to be approximately 3 heads high. With these proportions established, the artist proceeds to add details while maintaining this scale of measurement.

An example of how to use your pencil as a measuring stick to find the height and width of the house with the use of your pencil and thumb. You can also find the angle of the roof with this methodology

Finally, you must know the correct ways to hold the pencil while drawing. Holding it as you would a pencil or pen while writing is INCORRECT. The CORRECT ways are shown below.

By holding your pencil as shown in (a), (b), or (c) you will get complete freedom of arm movement and will, after considerable practice, develop a professional touch that would be impossible to acquire by employing the incorrect method shown in (d).

You can even learn how to draw using graphite and charcoal pencil technique by referring a drawing lesson book included in “How to Draw Kit by General’s”. Find the product here.

Customised Skin Tone Swatches with Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Polycolor Artists' Pencils.

Welcome into the artistic journey of Colour Pencils!

In this blog, we will be showcasing the customised skin tone swatches using the renowned Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Polycolor Artists’ Colour Pencils, beautifully crafted on the exquisite canvas of Art Essentials Drawing Paper.

Skin Tone Swatches using Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Polycolor Artists’ Pencils on Art Essentials Drawing Paper.

Explore the wide array of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Polycolor Artists’ Pencils, each contributing its unique hue to the palette.
These colour pencils are oil-based, water-resistant, encased with strong, durable California Cedar wood. They are Professional grade pencils for drawing, illustrating and coloring purposes.

Wide range of Koh-I-Noor Hardtmuth Polycolor Artists’ Colour pencils.

We have designed these skin tone swatches using 21 carefully selected different pencil colours necessary for sketching a human portraitures.
These are the individual colours listed below-
Celadon Green, Coral Red, Medum Turquoise, Fig Purple, Caput Mortuum, Lilac Violet, Dark Yellow Ochre, Light Ochre, Burnt Umber, Hazelnut Brown, Cafe Noir Brown, Natural Sienna, Reddish Brown, Burnt Ochre, Sandstone Brown, Salmon Pink, Apricot Orange, Portrait Sand, Portrait Peach, Portrait Light and Ivory Bone.

Shop the entire range of collection from Art Lounge website here.

Guide to Vegan Art Supplies: A Palette of Compassion in Art!

Dear Art Enthusiasts,

We’re thrilled to share a vibrant canvas of creativity with our Vegan Art Supplies collection at Art Lounge! As artists, we understand the importance of expressing your passion while aligning with ethical choices. Dive into a world of cruelty-free possibilities with our carefully curated vegan-friendly options.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting, the real question is, “How can I be vegan in my creative pursuits?” Let’s explore this together.

Why Go Vegan ?

Going vegan is often a conscientious choice to promote ethical treatment of animals, reduce environmental impact and support personal health through a plant-based diet.

Can Artists Be Vegan?
Absolutely! Artists can weave their creativity with compassion. Being vegan isn’t just about what you eat; it’s a lifestyle. All you need to keep in mind are three points as below:
1. No Animal Ingredients
2. No Animal testing
3. Synthetic or plant-based materials

Now, let’s dive into the world of Vegan Art Supplies.

Surfaces:

Watercolor papers- Watercolour papers are traditionally treated with a gelatin size to reduce the absorbency of the paper (gelatin is extracted from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals), but there are a number of watercolour papers that are treated with synthetic size instead.

Watercolour papers that are treated with synthetic size include the entire Lanaquarelle Papers and Canson Montval series.

In Printmaking paper, entire Speedball Arnhem 1618 series pads are vegan-friendly.

Canvas surfaces- Canvas is a plant-derived material, made using either cotton or linen. The following canvas surfaces are confirmed to contain no animal-derived ingredients, such as animal hide size or glue:

- Pebeo Natural Linen Canvas Board

- Winsor and Newton Classic Canvas

- Claessens Unprimed Artists’ Linen Canvas Roll

Vegan Paints:

Explore a spectrum of vegan paints that haven't been tested on animals-

Acrylic Paints- Acrylics are made using pigment and acrylic polymer resin. With the exception of those containing ivory black PBk9, acrylic paints do not contain any animal products. The following ranges are certified vegan and are not tested on animals:
a. Winsor and Newton Professional Acrylic (except Ivory Black and Payne’s Gray).
b. Winsor and Newton Galeria Acrylic (except Ivory Black and Payne’s Gray).

Watercolour Paints- Some watercolour ranges contain honey, which helps keep the paint rewettable after drying. Another common addition to both watercolour and traditional gouache paints is ox gall, a dispersing agent derived from bile obtained from the gallbladder of cattle. The following ranges do not contain either of these ingredients and are considered vegan, but some include pigment PBk9, which is derived from animal bones:
a. Winsor and Newton Cotman- are all vegan, apart from Viridian Hue, Raw Umber, and Ivory Black.
b. Mijello Mission Gold Class Watercolours- all paints are vegan-friendly!

Traditional Gouache-
a. Winsor and Newton Designer Gouache (except Ivory Black, Raw Sienna, Winsor Green, Spectrum Yellow, Intense Blue, Sky Blue, Purple Lake, Prussian Blue, Linden Green, Flame Red, Burnt Umber, Bengal Rose, Primary Blue, Lamp Black, and Spectrum Violet, which all contain ox gall.)​
b. Pebeo Tactilcolor Children's Gouache.​

Oil Paints-
Oil paints are made using plant-based drying oils. Some ranges, however, include a small amount of beeswax in the binder. The following ranges are vegan, with the exception of a few colours:
a. Gamblin 1980 Oil Paint (except Ivory Black and Van Dyke Brown)
b. Gamblin Artists’ Oil Colour (except Ivory Black, Van Dyke Brown, Terre Verte and Asphaltum)
c. Winsor and Newton Artist Oil Paint (except Blue Black and Ivory Black)
d. Pebeo Studio Fine XL Oil Paints are vegan with the exception of Van Dyke Brown and Raw Umber.

Artist Brushes:

Recent advancements in synthetic brush technology have expanded artists' options beyond traditional animal hair brushes. The following vegan brushes are designed to mimic natural hair, excluding any animal-derived glues in their construction.
Winsor and Newton Cotman series

- Escoda Marfil Chengdu

- Escoda Modernista Tadami synthetic

- Escoda Versatil

- Escoda Ultimo Tendo Synthetic Squirrel Hair brushes

- Escoda Perla Synthetic White Toray Hair Brush

- Escoda Prado Tame Synthetic Sable Hair Brush

- Escoda Chronos Synthetic Toray Brush

- Art Essentials Kazan Synthetic Squirrel brush series

- Art Essentials Synthetic Oyster Brush series

Drawing Inks

Most drawing inks, including india ink, cannot be considered vegan because they contain shellac, a resin secreted by the female lac bug. There are a couple of ranges that are not shellac-based:

- Dr. Ph Martin Radiant Watercolour Inks (non-waterproof)
- Winsor and Newton Calligraphy ink (non-waterproof)
- Speedball Super Black India Ink
- Speedball Super pigmented Acrylic Drawing and Calligraphy Ink

Creating art becomes not just a visual delight but a compassionate journey with these vegan-friendly choices. Explore the vast world of cruelty-free creativity at Art Lounge and leave your mark on the canvas of compassion. 🌿🎨

Thank you for choosing the artful path of compassion and making a conscious difference through your creative journey.

Revealing the Wonders of Mijello Mission Titanium Class Gouache with Artist Gayatri Mehta

Welcome to a colourful exploration of Mijello Mission Titanium Class Gouache, guided by the insights of the talented artist, Gayatri Mehta.

Let’s explore the remarkable Mijello Mission Titanium Class Gouache in-depth!

Exploring the nuances of the impressive Mijello Mission Titanium Class Gouache, here is the series of questions and answers from the interview with Gayatri Mehta.

Artist Gayatri Mehta
“Still Life”
Titanium Class Mission Artists non cracking Gouache colors on Lana Aquarelle 300 gsm cold pressed paper
8 .37 x 11.7 inches

What makes Mijello Mission Titanium class Gouache unique?

The brilliance and gloss finish of the pigments, akin to properties found in oil paint. In my experience with various Gouache colors, the exceptional gloss from Mijello Mission stands out.

Artist Gayatri Mehta
“The Shepherd”
A5 size, Mijello Mission Titanium Class Gouache on Art Essentials Watercolour Paper.

How does it perform in terms of color vibrancy and opacity, and are there specific techniques for artists?

The versatility to use it transparently or opaquely enhances vibrancy and pigmentation. It offers a broad spectrum for artistic exploration.

Artist Gayatri Mehta
”Fruity Fun”
Titanium Class Mission Artists Gouache colors for Impasto work with knife on Canvas
4 x 4 inches

Who benefits the most from using Mijello Mission Titanium Gouache, and why?

a) Commercial Artists designing products benefit from its sharp, clear, and opaque feel.

b) Fine artists enjoy the blend of acrylic and oil properties without extra binders, providing clarity in both opacity and transparency.

c) Plein Air artists find flexibility, working with fewer colors for beautiful effects, either transparent with water or uniquely thick in its pure form.

Artist Gayatri Mehta
Tea treat
Titanium Class Mission Artists non cracking Gouache colors for Impasto work on stretched canvas
12 x 12 inches

Are there environmental or sustainability aspects associated with Mijello Mission Titanium Gouache?

It's eco-friendly, non-toxic, and non-hazardous. Continuous use for a month has shown no impact on health or allergies.

Don't forget to catch the full video on our YouTube channel for a more comprehensive look. Also, be sure to explore the entire range and shop conveniently at the ArtLounge online and offline store.

Navigating Kalaghoda with ArtLounge's Illustrated Map!

In the heart of our vibrant neighborhood, creativity knows no bounds. We're delighted to share a glimpse into the artistic tapestry that surrounds us, as captured in the enchanting Illustrated Map by Art Lounge.

Join us on a journey through the brushstrokes of local talent and the flavors that define our community.

Art Lounge’s illustrated Map

Art Lounge's Illustrated Map, curated with passion and precision, serves as a gateway to our local art scene. Every stroke and detail on the map tells a story, inviting art enthusiasts to explore nearby museums, galleries, and the Art Lounge store itself. It's more than a map; it's a work of art in its own right.

Our Creative minds behind the Art Lounge’s illustrated map.

Behind every stroke on the Illustrated Map are the brilliant minds of our Creative Director, Anika Gupta, and Graphic Designer, Tanvi Chheda. Their collaborative vision brought this map to life, infusing it with colors that pop and details that inspire. Their dedication to showcasing our neighborhood's creativity is evident in every inch of the map.

Nearby places of culture from Art Lounge store, Kalaghoda.

Explore a variety of art styles, ranging from modern installations to timeless masterpieces and let your senses be captivated by the creativity on display. Navigate and visit the nearby museums and galleries highlighted on our map like-
Method Art Space, Artisans, Jehangir Art Gallery, National Gallery of Modern Art, BSE institute limited, Rajabai Clock Tower, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, David Sassoon Library and Reading Room, High Court of Bombay and Flora Fountain.

Places to eat that are nearby from Art Lounge store, Kalaghoda

Our illustrated map also features charming cafes and restaurants in Kalaghoda,Fort where you can indulge your taste buds after a day of exploring art such as-

Theobroma, Oh dough, Bake House Cafe, Knead by Moshe Shak, Folk, 99 Pancakes, Zen Cafe, Kala Ghoda Cafe, Americano, Burma Burma, Kandeel- The Lantern Bar, 1441 Pizzeria, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, M.I.T.R.O.N, Bulls and Bears, etc.

From cozy coffee shops to exquisite fine dining, these culinary destinations offer a delightful blend of flavors to satisfy every palate.

List of all the nearby places illustrated in the map.

Ready to embark on this creative adventure?
Explore our neighborhood's diverse cultural heritage with this downloadable illustrated map, guiding you through its vibrant tapestry.

Click on the link to get your keepsake now-
https://1drv.ms/b/s!Ap6sLxuv7SCOhdtcPUWb3kt48INyqg?e=RzYI9Q

Let the map be your compass, and let the art and flavors of our community inspire you.

Rediscovering Art and History at the Rijksmuseum: A Journey of Cultural Exploration

During her recent trip to Amsterdam, Anika Gupta Goenka, the Creative Director of Art Lounge, had the opportunity to explore the prestigious Rijks Museum.

Here’s a glimpse of her visit to this renowned institution.

I recently embarked on my third visit to the picturesque city of Amsterdam, a place that never fails to surprise and inspire me. While my previous trips had been filled with canal tours, delicious stroopwafels, and leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets, there was one iconic landmark I had yet to explore - the renowned Rijksmuseum.

This time, I was determined not to miss out on this cultural treasure trove, which houses the largest collection of Vermeers and Rembrandts in the world. The prospect of immersing myself in the masterpieces of these legendary artists was simply too enticing to resist

The Rijksmuseum, with its rich history, is a work of art in itself. The brilliant architect Pierre Cuypers designed this magnificent institution, blending elements of both Gothic and Renaissance styles into a harmonious architectural marvel. It was in 1885 that the doors of the Rijksmuseum first opened to the public, marking the beginning of its incredible journey as a custodian of Dutch art and history.

What makes the Rijksmuseum even more intriguing is its commitment to preserving its historical essence while embracing modernity. This delicate balance was achieved through a meticulous restoration and renovation process led by Spanish architects Antonio Cruz and Antonio Ortiz. Witnessing the seamless integration of old and new during my visit was awe-inspiring.

The restoration efforts not only breathed new life into the building but also saw the resurrection of many old interior decorations. As I wandered through its hallowed halls, I marveled at the dedication to preserving the past for future generations. The decision to remove the floors in the courtyards was a bold one, creating open, inviting spaces that showcase the beauty of the architecture.

My visit to the Rijksmuseum was nothing short of a cultural awakening. As I stood before Vermeer's "The Milkmaid" and Rembrandt's "The Night Watch," I felt a profound connection to the rich tapestry of Dutch art and history. It was a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

In conclusion, my visit to the Rijksmuseum was not just a tour of a renowned institution; it was a journey through time and creativity. It reminded me that the true beauty of art lies not only in the strokes of a brush but also in the stories it tells. Amsterdam, with its rich history and commitment to preservation, continues to be a city that captivates and educates, leaving me eagerly anticipating my next adventure in this enchanting place.

Art Lounge's Stellar Artists: Unveiling the Creators and Their Love for Art Essentials

Art Lounge, a heaven for artists and art enthusiasts, has nurtured a thriving community of talented artists who create masterpieces using our premium Art Essentials products.
In this blog, we will shine a spotlight on some of these exceptional artists and explore their breathtaking artworks.

Artwork by Sheetal Gawas Naik

Mrs. Sheetal Ketan Naik, a drawing teacher at a secondary school, finds the transparency of watercolours fascinating. She enjoys the flowing nature of watercolours, which often leads to unexpected and beautiful results in her artwork. Mrs. Naik expresses her gratitude to Art Lounge for providing her with their Art Essentials watercolour brushes, which perfectly complement her style and make the process of painting more enjoyable and rewarding.

She adds, “I would like to thank Art Lounge for always appreciating my artwork 🥰💕”

Artwork by Swapna Khade

Swapna Khade from Pune, India, has a deep passion for art and painting, and her journey into the world of watercolours has been a transformative one. Over the past 4-5 years, she has discovered not only about art, aesthetics, and emotions but also about herself every time she wields a brush.

Her go-to art store is Art Lounge, which became a lifesaver for her during the lockdown period when it was difficult to find art materials elsewhere. Art Lounge impressed her with its wide range of brands, and she particularly enjoys purchasing products of Princeton, Winsor and Newton, Mijello Mission Gold, Arches, Canson, FineTec, and other reputable brands. Additionally, Swapna is fond of Art Lounge's in-house brand, Art Essentials Artist range, especially their Mightlon brushes and watercolour papers, which have become her favourites.

Artwork by Arshiya

Arshiya, the talented artist behind Arture Studio, specializes in creating beautiful artworks using watercolors and acrylics, with a particular focus on food illustration. Recently, she successfully launched her watercolor course called "The Watercolor Way," where she shares her expertise and recommends The Art Essentials range of Oyster Synthetic brushes to her students. Arshiya finds these brushes ideal for beginners due to their affordable price and uncompromising quality.

Her artistic portfolio is diverse, encompassing illustrations for magazines, journals, books, and commissioned art pieces. Additionally, Arshiya holds an impressive collection of food illustration designs and patterns, making her open to art licensing opportunities. With her creative flair and passion for art, Arshiya continues to make a mark in the art world with her delightful and inspiring creations.

Artwork by Kaniz Fatema

Introducing Fatema, a talented self-taught professional watercolour artist hailing from Nagpur, Maharashtra, who finds great pleasure, privilege, and honour in sharing her art journey through Art Essentials products.

Watercolours have a captivating charm for Fatema, as she admires their transparency, unpredictability, and the ability to experiment with various ideas and subjects. This fluid medium has become a true passion, providing her with healing, therapy, and a powerful means of self-expression. Her artistic style predominantly revolves around realism and macro painting, with a special attraction towards leaves, flowers, and still life. While Fatema has dabbled in other mediums like Gouache and acrylic, her love for watercolours knows no bounds. Through each meaningful brushstroke using Art Essentials Kazan brushes, she finds joy in capturing the beauty of Mother Nature in her exquisite artworks.
For all her art supplies, Fatema relies on Art Lounge, considering it a one-stop shop that meets all her needs. The well-trained and helpful staff at Art Lounge are always updated with the latest products, making her artistic experimentation even more delightful. She appreciates that Art Lounge cares for artists, allowing trials of different shades and offering a wide range of choices, ultimately fostering her creative journey.

Artwork by Naziha

Naziha, the talented dry media portrait artist from Nazistry, prefers working with charcoal and PanPastel. She values versatile papers that can withstand multiple techniques and hold layers for her artwork. Luckily, she came across Art Essentials paper from Art Lounge, which she is incredibly thankful for.

According to Naziha, the Art Essentials paper is of superior quality with a smooth surface, allowing her to apply multiple layers and use numerous erasures without any limitations. The best part is that it comes at an unexpectedly affordable price. With this paper, she feels completely free to explore her creativity and push the boundaries in her portrait creations.

Having found happiness and satisfaction with Art Essentials paper, Naziha trusts this brand and considers it her go-to choice for all her artistic endeavours.

Artwork by Nitya K.

Meet Nitya K, a Bengaluru-based artist with a penchant for anime, desserts, and landscapes - her favorite subjects to illustrate using watercolors and gouache. With a background in Fashion Design, her love for art has been evident since childhood.

Nitya's preferred art supply destination is Art Lounge for several reasons. The supplies arrive well-packed and in impeccable condition, reflecting Art Lounge's attention to detail. The friendly and supportive social media team provides excellent customer service, making her feel valued. Nitya cherishes the Art Essentials Oyster Synthetic brushes, her first professional brushes, which have played a significant role in enhancing her artwork as she documents her artistic journey on Instagram account- Mysfunctional. Art Lounge has become her trusted partner, offering premium products and unwavering support in her creative endeavors.

Conclusion:
Art Lounge’s commitment to providing in-house brand- Art essentials has not only garnered a loyal customer base but has also fostered a community of talented artists who continue to push the boundaries of their creativity. The stories of Sheetal, Swapna, Naziha, Kaniz, and Arshiya showcase the transformative power of quality art supplies, allowing artists to realize their artistic visions and create breathtaking artworks that captivate audiences worldwide. Whether it’s a brush stroke, a charcoal line, or any other media, Art Lounge’s products have played a vital role in shaping the artistic journeys of these remarkable creators.

Painting an Aurora: A Step-by-Step Guide

Capturing the enchanting beauty of the Aurora Borealis on canvas is a magical experience. With our step-by-step guide, you can bring this mesmerizing phenomenon to life. Get ready to unleash your creativity using Art Essentials & Winsor and Newton supplies as we embark on this artistic journey together!

Materials Needed:

- Art Essentials Stretched Canvas

- Art Essentials Supremo Natural brushes

- Winsor and Newton Foundation brush

- Winsor and Newton Galeria acrylic paints

- RGM Palette Knife

Step 1: Establishing the Base

To create a dramatic contrast for your Aurora, begin by applying a solid black base coat to your canvas. This dark backdrop will enhance the luminous effect of the Northern Lights.

Step 2: Layering Colors

Using a flat brush, select multiple shades of acrylic paint that resemble the vibrant colors of the Aurora. Apply vertical strokes on the canvas, gradually blending the colors to achieve a smooth transition. Experiment with different color combinations to capture the enchanting essence of the Northern Lights.

Step 3: Adding Depth and Texture

With a fan-shaped brush, create wavy white lines across the canvas to represent the ribbons of light in the Aurora. These lines should flow gracefully, mimicking the natural movement of the Northern Lights. Afterward, gently brush over the white lines with a dry flat brush to soften their edges and blend them harmoniously with the surrounding colors.

Step 4: Avoiding Color Merging

To maintain the distinctiveness of each color, make sure to wipe your brushes in between strokes. This prevents unintentional blending and allows the individual colors to shine through, replicating the mesmerizing complexity of the Aurora.

Step 5: Bringing the Landscape to Life

To enhance the composition, introduce mountains and water reflections to your painting using an RGM palette knife. With the knife, carefully apply textured strokes to create the rugged peaks of the mountains and the serene reflections on the water's surface. This element adds depth and realism to your artwork, making the Aurora feel more integrated into its surroundings.

Final look and Conclusion:

Once the Artwork is completely dried, varnish with the help of Winsor and Newton Galeria Satin Varnish for a finished look.
As you journey through the process of painting an Aurora, immerse yourself in the magical world of colors and creativity. The interplay of shades, the gentle brushstrokes, and the textured landscapes will gradually unveil your own interpretation of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
Once completed, don't forget to share your masterpiece with the world by tagging #TILWITHARTLOUNGE
Happy painting!

Note: The mentioned materials and techniques are suggestions, and you can always experiment with different art supplies and methods to personalize your Aurora painting. The key is to enjoy the process and let your imagination guide you as you capture the beauty of the celestial phenomenon on canvas.

Shop all these products from ArtLounge online and offline store!

The Journey of an Artist Meet-Up: From Inception to Success

In this blog post, we will explore the inspiring story of an Art Lounge Artist meet-up, tracing its humble beginnings to its current status as a thriving and successful community. We will delve into how the meet-up originated and the factors that contributed to its growth and accomplishments. Join us as we uncover the journey of this artistic gathering and the impact it has made on the creative community.

Inception: Seeds of Inspiration

The artist meet-up began with a simple idea - to create a space where artists from diverse backgrounds could come together, share their work, and connect with like-minded individuals. It all started with a passionate artist who recognized the need for a supportive and collaborative environment for creative expression. The first step was finding a suitable venue and spreading the word to fellow artists through social media, local art communities, and word-of-mouth.

Like any venture, the artist meet-up faced its fair share of challenges. Initially, attendance was modest, and organizing regular events required considerable effort. However, we persevered by constantly refining the format and incorporating feedback from attendees. The key to its growth was fostering a welcoming atmosphere, where artists of all skill levels felt comfortable sharing their work, ideas, and aspirations. Word of the artist meet-up's positive impact spread throughout the artistic community, leading to increased attendance and collaborations with organizations like Rad-Art Media and iCraft and, Urban Sketchers.

Expanding Horizons:

Sponsorship collaboration with Urban Sketchers, Pune

Buoyed by its accomplishments, the artist meet-up ventured into new territories. Collaborative exhibitions, art fairs, and community outreach programs became regular features. The meet-up began attracting sponsors, securing grants, and partnering with businesses aligned with its vision. These efforts enabled the community to expand its reach, impact, and opportunities for its members.

Collaboration with Rad Art Media

As the artist meet-up gained momentum, a vibrant community began to form. Artists discovered a network of peers who understood their struggles, offered encouragement, and provided valuable insights. Collaborations and creative partnerships emerged, amplifying the impact of individual talents.

Collaboration with iCraft

Regular meet-ups, workshops, and critique sessions allowed members to learn from one another, nurturing personal growth and fostering a supportive environment.

Recognition:

Sponsorship with a renowned Artist Monali Haldipur

The meet-up's success attracted guest speakers, renowned artists, and industry professionals who shared their experiences and expertise. Social media platforms and a dedicated website played a significant role in promoting the community's achievements and reaching a wider audience.

Success Stories:

All about Artist Meet and Feedback from participants.

Over time, the artist meet-up has witnessed numerous success stories. Many artists found inspiration, honed their skills, and gained recognition through the community's support. Members have showcased their work in prestigious galleries, secured commissions, and achieved personal milestones in their artistic journeys. The meet-up's success has translated into individual achievements, validating the power of collaboration, mentorship, and a nurturing artistic environment.

The journey of this artist meet-up exemplifies the transformative power of a supportive community. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into a thriving ecosystem that fosters creativity, connections, and artistic growth. Through its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, it has become a hub where artists come together, exchange ideas, and celebrate the joy of creation. This success story serves as an inspiration for artists and organizers seeking to create similar communities, proving that with passion, perseverance, and a shared vision, great things can be accomplished.

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TILwithArtLounge: Create Stunning Impasto Art Using Gesso and Acrylic Paints!

Impasto painting is a technique that involves applying thick layers of paint to create texture and three-dimensional effects on a canvas. By combining gesso and acrylic paints, you can achieve remarkable impasto effects that add depth and visual interest to your artwork.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of creating stunning impasto paintings using gesso and high-quality acrylic paints.

Materials Needed: Mijello Mission Permanent Gesso, Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Paints, RGM Palette knife, Canvas or painting surface, Paper towels or cloth.
Optional: Brushes for blending or additional detailing

Let’s begin!
1. Mixing the Gesso and Acrylic Paint:
Using RGM plus line- palette knife, take a small amount of Mijello Mission Permanent Gesso and the desired Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic paint color. For a pastel color effect, mix approximately 2 parts acrylic paint with 8 parts gesso. Adjust the proportions as desired to achieve your preferred color intensity and blend it thoroughly.

2. Using the palette knife, scoop a small amount of the gesso and acrylic paint mixture onto the palette knife's edge. Apply it to the canvas, just as you would with a regular impasto technique. Experiment with different strokes and techniques to create various textures and effects.
Note: Allow the applied paint to dry completely before adding another layer or a different color. This prevents smudging or unintentional mixing of colors.
After each application, wipe off any excess paint from the palette knife using a paper towel or cloth. This ensures that the palette knife remains clean and avoids color contamination.

3. Continue the process of applying layers of gesso and acrylic paint, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. Feel free to experiment with different colors, strokes, and textures to create a unique and visually captivating impasto painting.

Creating impasto art using gesso and acrylic paints is a fascinating and rewarding process. The combination of these materials allows you to add texture, depth, and visual interest to your paintings.

Remember to follow the tips mentioned in this blog, such as allowing proper drying time and cleaning the palette knife between colors.
So go ahead, grab your gesso and acrylic paints, and explore the world of impasto art. We can't wait to see your amazing creations!
Don't forget to tag us when you share your artwork.

Happy painting!.

UNDERSTANDING LABELS ON PEBEO PRODUCTS

Pebeo was initially known as “La Pebeo”. It was named after the molecule used in the production of paint, lead protoxide, which was commonly known as “Pbo”. They invented 100% natural modelling clay and organic plant-based inks which are GMO free, Gluten free, solvent free and 100% Vegan.

So, let’s understand in detail about the labels on Pebeo products.

Labeling Of Dangerous Materials

It is must to label every package of hazardous formulations with following information:

• Trade name or designation of the formulation.

• Name, complete mailing address and telephone number of party, responsible for placing it on the market.

• Name, or, substance (s) present in the formulation.

• Symbols and indications of potential danger.

• Specific risk phrases (limited to 6).

• Normal quantity.

Hazard symbols and their significance:

Click here to shop and know more about these products on our website.

• Xn symbol is denoted as Harmful whereas Xi is symbolizes Irritating. The Cross of St. Andrew, seen on the labels of products fall under the category of Harmful Risk or Irritant. However, these symbols are now updated with new ones as per Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). Refer to the image above.

  These products can cause temporary damage (irritant) or temporary health issue (Health Hazard) by inhalation, skin contact or ingestion. One must avoid breathing these vapors by using these products in the well ventilated areas, wearing gloves and washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after use.

Click here to shop and know more about these products on our website.

• F + F symbolizes Highly flammable and extremely flammable products. This symbol will appear on the products that are easily or extremely flammable (such as solvent-based varnish in bottles or cans).Smoking is strictly prohibited during the application of these products, as it should be only used in well ventilated areas.

• C is denoted as Corrosive. Products that could cause chemical burns are labelled with this symbol. It is mandatory to wear gloves and safety glasses before handling these products.

• N stands for Toxic Environment. This symbol is labelled on the products that may have long-term, adverse effects on the environment.

• Indication of danger for non-sighted person is provided by a raised/embossed brail triangle which can be detected by touc thereby, informing them of hazardous products. Hence this symbol is transparent to avoid confusion for the sighted person.

• All toys that may be dangerous for children under the age of thirty-six months, must be labelled as "Not suitable for children under the age of thirty-six months" or "not suitable for children under three years" and the graphic symbol for the same is ‘EN 71-6’.

Labelling of non-dangerous preparations:

Every package of non-dangerous formulations are legibly and permanently labeled with the following information: 

·     business name or designation of the formulation

·     complete mailing address

·     telephone number of the party responsible for placing it on the market.

·     nominal quantity

Non-Hazard symbols and their significance:

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• Green Point: It is provided with EU Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste.

• Metrological sign "e": Adding this letter means that the amount indicated has been carefully controlled, by the professional during manufacturing. It is labelled on the product with a size ≥ 3mm high.

About ACMI:

ACMI stands for Art & Creative Materials Institute. It is the international association of manufacturers of products for Art and Leisure, founded in 1936. It is responsible for ensuring compliance of labeling products according to U.S. rules and regulations (hazardous labeling function standard, ASTM D 4236, and Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act: LHAM).

After reviewing the formulations, and testing the products, they are classified into two categories:

1. AP (approved product) = not dangerous for children and adults. - CL (caution labeling) = product with certain dangers, whose labeling requires certain statements (flammable, harmful ...).

Click here to shop and know more about these products on our website.

2. FFFH is abbreviated as Fællesrådet for Formnings- og Hobbymaterialer or joint committee for the supply of leisure and creative art. It is an organization that ranks Danish paints into in 4 classes (A, B, C & D) according to their level of dangerousness, and then, it is only for the Scandinavian market.

• Products labeled "A" may be used by a child over 3 years.

• Products marked "B" may be used by a child over 5 years under the supervision of an adult.

• Products marked "C" may be used by a child over 15 years.

• Products labeled "D" may be used by an adult.

All toys or products that are clearly intended for children under 14 are subject to ‘CE’ marking. The paints bearing the CE marking shall be in conformity with toy standard EN 71 as in the following:

• EN 71-1: Mechanical and physical properties.

• EN 71-2: 2007 flammability.

• EN 71-3: Migration of certain elements.

• EN 71-7: finger painting.

To shop for Pebeo mediums and paints visit www.artlounge.in

References:

https://en.pebeo.com

Meet the Artists behind SENYENSEN

SENYENSEN: An artistic trio of Atia Sen, Yen and Tan Sen who believe in creating as part of a community, and take inspiration from the energy of their surroundings.

‘Cohabitation’

We asked SENYENSEN our top 3 questions and their answers have infused more meaning to the experience of viewing their Art.

Q.You must get this question all the time, but we HAVE TO KNOW- How did the three of you meet and How did SENYENSEN happen?

A. Thanks to the one thing we all have majorly in common- the love for traveling. Tan and I are twins actually so we've known each other for 28 years now but Tan happened to meet Yen during one of his trips to Auroville. There was an instant connection and when they realised they both are from delhi, they made immediate plans to meet and paint together in delhi. I (atia), meanwhile was completing my undergraduate from Srishti school of Art, Design and Technology. I came back to discover this new beautiful budding friendship, a dynamic that seemed so strong and inseparable already. Their idea of "hanging out" was going crazy with paints and exploring new techniques and styles, I couldnt stop myself from joining forces with a duo that seemed so fun and experimentative! We collaborated on our first piece and posted it on instagram. It was bought by someone on the same day. This is when we realised it might just be a good idea to team up and create more. It anyway sounded more fun and beneficial than painting alone. So yeah, that's how senyensen came up circa 2019. 

Project for Fab Cafe, Delhi

Q. How do you design as a team? Especially in colour choice, do they come naturally to you or do you have a process for it?

A. Each of us brings our own artistic touch to the canvas to create realms and include elements that would otherwise be hard to acquire. We all have very different strengths and weaknesses which only work in our favour. Tan brings in a surrealist aspect to our works, he focuses on creating perspective/depth with shapes and forms while focussing on the light and shadow play  ; Yen is excellent with realism and has a great sense of lighting and a wide array of techniques. I am more about being impulsive and following my instinct, focusing more on the textures and details. Therefore, our end result is always quite dynamic with three very obviously different styles on one canvas, and since each one of us have very different strengths, we allow each other that space and freedom to add our respective bit to every work. There are obviously disagreements here and there but we feel that it is only imperative for us to reach a common ground. Regarding the choice of colour, we really just go with the flow and have learnt to trust each other with our individual choices and processes . We try to keep away from too many rules and regulations so there can be a good flow of different concepts and ideas. The choice of colour comes during the process of ideation and so far we've all been on the same page about the colour choices.

‘Reveal’ in collaboration with St+art Kovai at Coimbatore.

This mural by Senyensen Collective is an ode to the migratory birds and animals of Coimbatore. The artists chose to reflect on the rapid urbanisation of the city while contemplating the movement patterns of the region's indigenous creatures. An anthropomorphised fish holds up a young frog against a backdrop of flourishing plant life—reimagining the possibility of a harmonious co-existence of built and natural environments.

Details of ‘Reveal’

Q. Your work in association with the St+art Kovai, like a lot of your other works, feels very inspired by nature. Is this something you see yourselves continuing even in the future?

A. Oh yes absolutely! Apart from working together, we also travel together a lot and we all feel it is so important to do that as a team and be inspired and share our inspiration and experiences together. Observing textures for example of different rocks, leaves, trees, insects of different places we travel to or studying the light and shadow play of different landscapes, the hues and colours of the sky, all these have a major impact and serve as a huge inspiration for what we finally create. 

‘The Rehearsal’

Every element in their paintings- Colour, texture, subjects, their essence, the message they convey is very thoughtfully added and has an impact on the final outcome. Viewers not only view but consume art and having access to art like this brings peace and tranquility.

What do you think of SENYENSEN Collective’s work?

We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Meet the Artist: Andha Ras

Andha Ras, a street artist from in Malaysia, gets his ideas for his portraits from both nature and the people he encounters. According to him, portraits capture unique personalities and elicit awe and interaction from the viewer. Andha has been painting enormous murals all throughout Malaysia and other nations since 2014.

Ras’s mural for PPB Group Berhad.

The artist frequently uses figurative imagery, employing broad brushstrokes to produce dynamic murals that naturally include movement.

Ras was inspired by the fish market at Sassoon Docks. His mural at the Mumbai Urban Art Festival, 2022-2023 pays homage to the women working tirelessly throughout the day there – whether it is peeling shrimps, sorting through the fish or selling it, he seldom saw them at rest. This brilliant blue colour reminds us of the sea.

Here’s what the artist had to share on our top 3 questions:

Ras’s mural at the Mumbai Urban Art Festival, Sassoon Dock.

Q. Can you share about your thought process and how you finalized exactly what to paint for St+art Festival?

A. The theme given to us was ‘the Sassoon dock’. I took around 5 days to study about Sassoon dock, about the history, about the people and the workers there. What caught my eye was a female worker working tirelessly with her daughter and some young girls there. I wanted to capture the essence of these very people. The next day I went to discuss the idea with one of the curator from Start India. Thanks to them, it was approved. We discussed some more details to finalize the outcome subject on the wall. That’s how I came up with the idea.

‘11500’ at Ayer Hitam, Penang, Malaysia.

Q. Do you use different tools and supplies for an outdoor mural than what you use for indoor ones?

A. The brushes and the sprays that I use stay the same, what changes is that I choose different type of water based paint depending on if the location is in an indoor or outdoor setting. Outdoor artworks have to be ready to face everything from extreme heat to heavy rain without losing it vibrancy and impact.

‘The sustenance in mistiness’ at Coimbatore with St+art India.

Q. How different is it working inside a commercial space vs working where the city is the backdrop?

A. Both of them got their own pros and cons.

Commercial space is comfortable. But I prefer to paint outdoor because these outdoor murals are seen by comparatively more people. When working in locations that are exposed to a lot of natural elements, the weather is quite challenging. Either way, it gives me great satisfaction to face them and finally deliver my painting and it’s message to the public.

Also, the city needs some colour to be lively, doesn’t it?

Mural at North Jakarta

What do you think of Andha Ras’s work? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

If you wish to witness Ras’s beautiful blue mural in person, you can visit Mumbai Urban Art Festival at the Sassoon Dock till 22nd February, 2023.

Meet the Artist: Dennis Fabian

Designer and new-media artist Dennis Fabian Peter resides in Panaji, Goa. He is an architect by training who also produces exhibition-design work.

His creative project "Non-Linear" practices across multidisciplinary mediums and merges art with technology.

Flow.0: An immersive light and sound based installation at the Mumbai Urban Art Festival.

Our Conversation with Dennis was insightful and inspired. Here are Dennis’s answers to our top 3 questions.

Q. How long does it take to assemble and install one of your Art pieces? Do you enjoy this process like you do creating them?

A: This particular installation at MUAF took about 9 days on-site to install, but prior to the on-site installation, there was a lot of back-end work. All the lights were individually fabricated by me and my team (this took another 6-7 days to fabricate over 160 lights) and the lights were eventually shipped to Mumbai. In addition, there was a lot of work on software/code to develop for the installation along with the soundscape (which took another 4-5 days). 

The on-site installation process is often much more stressful for me, because there are so many things that can go wrong when working with electronics and technology, and indeed I did face some issues during installation. But there are very few emotions that feel as good as getting to view my installation function in the real world for the first time - and seeing the end product outside a computer screen. Often when things go wrong during the installation process, I treat them as an opportunity to learn and improve my processes for my future installations - there is always space & time to learn new things, and my practice is based on this idea of constant experimentation and exploring outside your own technical boundaries.

‘Bionic Bloom’: An interactive Art piece consisting of 90 mechanical ‘blooms’ that can be individually controlled by hand gestures.

Q. Your art interacts with humans and not just with their minds but also their bodies, what made you want to explore this aspect of Art?

I deeply enjoy the field of interaction design, and how we as humans interact with our environment.  I like to evoke a sense of awe within my viewers, and coming from a design background I am fascinated by how our habitable environment can deploy technology to create these feelings within a viewer. My art is primarily experiential and it does not take much to interpret it - I like my art being simple in this way. I don't enjoy reading long textual descriptions to understand art, either you can appreciate it, or you don't. So, having this aspect of interaction and response is a great way to invoke and draw a viewer's attention to your piece. 

Q. What kind of Art resonates with you the most?

I am a huge geek and I love anything that has to do with technology/electronics and science. I also have a deep love for music and sound and I try to incorporate sound into my installations as much as I can. A lot of my work is created by using algorithms and code (this is called generative art) and there are a lot of generative artists who I look up to. 
Some artists who inspire me are - Ryoji Ikeda, Brian Eno, Anders Hoff, Studio Drift, 404.zero and Nonotak. 
Apart from artists, I am also constantly inspired by production houses that work with tech to create immersive and interactive experiences too such as Architecture Social Club, Tundra and Moment Factory.

Now that we know about Dennis’s work inspiration, process and motives, here’s some more of his work for all of us to enjoy!

‘An Ocean in a Drop’: A kinetic installation made in collaboration with origami artist Aditi Anuj and Sapna Khatri.

What do you think of Dennis Fabian’s work? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

If you wish to witness Dennis’s interactive art pieces in person you can visit Mumbai Urban Art Festival at the Sassoon Dock till 22nd February, 2023.

Mumbai Urban Art Festival at the Sassoon Dock, Mumbai

Mumbai Urban Art Festival at the Sassoon docks is an art project by St+art India foundation, in association with Asian Paints. The festival theme is 'Between the Sea and the City' and is inspired by the city's sea-related history. With 30+ artists from around the world coming to create art that embraces and tells the stories of the sea, this dock and the Koli community.

Image Courtesy: Vinayak Bhatt

Ayaz Basrai's 'the magic cube' is the artist's take on what functional homes can look like even in the future when living out of compact homes and furniture that actively participates in the lives of the people that occupy it.

Senkoe's lively murals are a celebration of Mexican and Indian culture with colours, textures and patterns.

Amrit Pal Singh's 'toy faces' has an elaborate setting with a lot of Texture, Lights, Forms, Creating just the right setting for this display.

Sassoon Dock Art Project- Intuitions. Mural by Andha Ras

Ras's Mural is a big highlight of the festival. The blue, resembling the sea calls to you and one must step forward for a closer view!

(Stay tuned to our blogs to know more about Andha Ras’s work process)

Sassoon Dock Art Project- Illusions

Photo Courtesy: Manish Yadav

Dennis Fabian's interactive art piece is awe striking in every sense of the word. We'll be publishing a blog on Dennis's answers to our top questions and you should not miss it!

To quote from our interview with the artist "I deeply enjoy the field of interaction design, and how we as humans interact with our environment. I like to evoke a sense of awe within my viewers".

And his work does that, indeed!

Pipes and Leaks by Sajid Wajid Shaikh and Ronak Soni

Photo Courtesy: Sati Tukadiya

A steady sound of water would also be present for most of this event. This is from the installation of Sajid Wajid Shaikh and Ronak Soni's Pipes and Leaks.

Photo Courtesy: Sati Tukadiya

Large-scale, site-specific, and experimental, the artworks are intended to immerse the observer in reflections between the sea and the city. They range from murals to technologically backed functional art.

Refraction of Reflections

Photo Courtesy: Sohil Belim

Colourful murals enhance this incredibly distinctive location and connect visitors to the three interactive displays inside- Art House, Intuitions and Illusions.

Metromorphosis by Sameer Kulavoor and Sandeep Meher

Photo Courtesy: Sohil Belim

Fishing to these diverse communities isn't just an occupation but a way of life, and their heritage even predates the city of Mumbai itself. The Art here celebrates their story, life, livelihood, community, culture and puts it on display for us.

Photo Courtesy: Kedar Deshpande

The smell of fish is an inseparable part of this city and it acts as an active part of the experience at the dock and the exhibit.

Photo Courtesy: Vinayak Bhatt

What are your thoughts on Mumbai Urban Art Festival 2023? Comment them below.

And for all the Street Art enthusiasts, we have a surprise!

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We have Montana Gold, Black, Ultra-wide, Marble, Granit, Crackle, Metallic, Acrylic Markers and refills all at 25% discount.

(Note: In-store offer only)

Top 10 entries for Postcards from Home: Van Gogh Style Contest

This contest was for fun and to challenge ourselves. Not everyone can win. Art is subjective. It was an extremely tough decision with such beautiful entries. We went with those who captured Van Gogh's style and yet reflected their city.

We would like to thank all the participants for sharing their wonderful work and encourage you to continue creating, curating and collaborating!

Here are our Top 10 picks, enjoy :D

1. Mrunmayee Malabika

2. Sefi George

3. Abhinav Dhole

4. Kruti Gandhi

5. Antara Pain

6. Stuti

7. Simham Samuel

8. Prem Singh

9. Sunil Pund

10. Dilsha Daniel

Thank you for taking the time to create these beautiful works around the contest theme, we loved the enthusiasm!

The Potato Eaters: Painting Analysis

Artist: Vincent Van Gogh

Van Gogh saw the Potato Eaters as a showpiece, for which he deliberately chose a difficult composition to prove he was on his way to becoming a good figure painter.

They are in a dark room and the only light source comes from the oil lamp hanging from the beams of the ceiling. The lamp is situated almost in the centre of the painting and it illuminates the room.

The message of the painting was more important to Van Gogh than correct anatomy or technical perfection. He was very pleased with the result: yet his painting drew considerable criticism because its colours were so dark and the figures full of mistakes.

The subjects have coarse and protruding features, which are distinctive characteristics of peasants. Their figures are bony. Van Gogh was trying to portray the ordinary, poor and tough lives of the peasants.

Although the painting is dominated by dark and gloomy colors, the facial expressions of the peasants shine out brightly, revealing their mixed inner emotions. Their expressions are very serious and solemn, and they do not seem to be very happy.

The colors used are mainly dull colors such as brown and black, giving a depressing and melancholy feeling to the painting. The earthy tones resemble the coarse, sunburnt face of the peasants.

The composition of the painting is carefully arranged. The painting is almost symmetrical in the way the figures are positioned, as they are distributed geometrically.

The ceiling is low and close to the peasants, the room is also small and shabby, creating a sense of oppression.

Vincent wrote that he wanted people to

“get the idea that these folk, who are eating their potatoes by the light of their little lamp, have tilled the earth themselves with these hands they are putting in the dish, and so it speaks of MANUAL LABOUR and – that they have thus honestly earned their food”.

A letter from Vincent Van Gogh to his brother Theo Van Gogh, dated Thursday, 9 April 1885.

The letter includes a sketch of The Potato Eaters.

Studies of Hands by Vincent (two of them holding forks)

A Lithograph of The Potato Eaters by Vincent (1885)

What does this painting make you feel?

Do you think Vincent did justice to the subjects he was painting? Share your thoughts in the comments!