- Cool colors, those in the blue-green range in the spectrum, are a vital part of the palette. French ultramarine is a solid, basic blue. Cobalt blue is a more intense pigment. It is also a little lighter. A basic green is Hooker's green. Sap green is a bit earthier. You may want to try Prussian blue, which has a metallic tinge, or cobalt turquoise for something different. Add a violet, such as mauve, to round out the cool colors.
- Warm colors inhabit the yellow through red range. Cadmium hues are the strongest. They are also the most traditional. Cadmium yellow, cadmium red and cadmium orange, each down-the-middle representations of those hues, are a good start. Throw in some contemporary colors. Quinacridone red is a clear red. It has a vibrant brilliance. Translucent orange is a good choice, too, and tints with white very cleanly, without getting muddy.
- White and black are must-have paints for the palette. That's because even if you do not apply them straight from the tube, you need them to create neutral blends and tints. Titanium white is standard. Chinese white is less strong. Mars black has a warm tinge.
- Earth colors are useful for subjects that go way beyond landscapes. You can mix and match them. They are perfect for areas that are less brilliant in your painting and help create contrast. Burnt umber is rich and dark brown. Burnt sienna has a light chocolate hue. Ocher is lighter and mustardlike. Vandyke brown is a deep brown that you can use to darken lighter shades.
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