The School of Colour was established in order to remove much of the confusion which surrounds this elusive subject. Vast numbers use colour in their work and recreation, yet we rely on information which is often outdated and inaccurate. The 'three primary system' for example, was invented in the late 1700s and has been causing confusion to those mixing colour ever since. Our ideas on colour harmony and contrast also rely heavily on the past, leading to a situation where few using colour do so with confidence. Ever since we allowed the 'Colour man' to produce our paints we have moved away from a clear understanding of our materials and use expensive colorants which often fade or darken. It is easy to see why such confusion exists and is added to year by year. The artist, craft-worker and others who use colour need to get on with their creative work; they simply do not have the time to sort out fact from fiction.

We have made that time available and have carried out detailed research over many years. The concentration has not been on the art alone but also on the science behind the art. By attempting to bring art and science together again we hope to remove the many myths and confusions which surround the subject and replace them with sound information.

The first time that art and science came together led to the Renaissance, the second time to the Impressionist era. What amazing work could come from a third and long overdue meeting?Several years ago I was constantly interrupted, whilst giving a talk on colour mixing and use, by several people who decided that I was talking nonsense. I invited them onto the stage and asked if they would like to duplicate two colours that I had already prepared, a dusky pink and a dull pale orange-yellow. Each almost grabbed a brush and set about using their declared 30-40 years of experience. Neither could get anywhere near the colour that they were attempting.

I then asked if anyone in the audience was just starting to paint or about to start. Several such people identified themselves. I stated that within an hour or so each could come onto the stage and match the colours exactly, without hesitation. They laughed then but were able to blend the colours with ease a little later. One of those who had been shouting me down actually apologized later. Perhaps we do have something.

Let those who do not wish to change their thinking continue to mix 'mud' and waste their time and expensive materials to produce limited work. As with the paintings of Van Gogh or the motor car, this new approach will never catch on.

Michael Wilcox

...Michael, I believe you have something that can revolutionize the art world. And I don't want that work's recognition to await a future generation, as so often happens in science. Whenever one steps on toes, no matter how wrong and antiquated they may be, it can take a while to gain acceptance, even if the other side can't refute one single word you say.

B. Garrett