How to Collect Natural Earth Pigments
Locating deposits of color is the first step in finding and collecting natural earth pigments. Once you find an area that exposes raw earth, you can begin to collect rocks, dirt, and soil.
Collecting Natural Earth Pigments
When you locate an area that lacks grass and moss coverage, collecting natural earth pigments is simple. Begin by gathering rocks that expose some bit of color. Whether that be reds, yellows, browns, the color can quickly transform into something much more in your studio. You can use your hands to pick up rocks or a small shovel or a garden trowel to dig fresh earth.
Carry a small tote to store your collected samples—you can sort them by color at a later time in your studio. If you are unsure if a sample is worth collecting, perform a scratch test to learn if your rock is a pigment. When you return to a landscape, you can begin to practice reciprocal gathering. Keep your mind open as you collect. Use this time to observe the natural world around you, and notice the colors of the rocks, dirt, and soil.
