Introducing Michael Harding Oil Colours – Now Available In-Store

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news for oil painters: Michael Harding Artist Oil Colours have arrived in our stores. These paints are celebrated worldwide for their uncompromising quality, extraordinary pigment load, and radiant colour that sets them apart from standard oil paints.

 

The journey of Michael Harding oils began in the early 1980s when Michael Harding, then an art student, became dissatisfied with the commercial paints available to him. He admired the depth, vibrancy, and permanence of colours used by Old Masters but couldn’t find anything that matched that standard in modern products. Driven by curiosity and passion, Harding began hand-grinding pigments at his kitchen table, experimenting until he achieved oils that captured the brilliance he admired in historic paintings.

What started as a personal quest quickly drew attention. Artists who tried Harding’s paints noticed the difference immediately — a richness and luminosity they couldn’t achieve with anything else. Word spread, and soon, galleries and conservators began recommending his oils for their exceptional quality. To this day, Michael Harding Oil Colours are still handmade in small batches, honouring the same traditional methods and uncompromising philosophy.

 

What Makes Them Special Each tube of Michael Harding paint is packed with pure pigment and high-quality linseed or safflower oil. Unlike many commercial brands, there are no fillers, extenders, or unnecessary additives. This means: Intense, true-to-pigment colour that retains its vibrancy over time A buttery consistency that handles beautifully with brush or knife Excellent lightfastness, giving your work durability and permanence A broad spectrum of colours, from traditional earth tones to contemporary brights The result is oil paint that allows you to work with confidence, knowing your colours will stay brilliant for decades to come.

In Our Stores Now We’re proud to carry a wide selection of Michael Harding oils to suit both established professionals and adventurous painters looking to try them for the first time. You’ll find: 40ml tubes – ideal for testing out colours or adding to your palette 225ml tubes – perfect for artists who paint on a larger scale or rely on favourite shades Specialty pigments such as genuine cadmiums, cobalts, and rare earth colours Supporting products including mediums, varnishes, and oils to help you get the most from your paints With such an extensive range, you can build your own carefully chosen palette or dive into new colours you might not have tried before.

 

 

 

From painters working in traditional realism to those pushing the boundaries of abstraction, artists around the world rely on Michael Harding oils for their depth, strength, and quality. They’re not just paints — they’re a tool that elevates your practice, helping you achieve colour, texture, and permanence that truly stand out.

 

Words can only go so far — the best way to understand the quality of Michael Harding oils is to experience them. Visit your nearest store to explore the collection, test the consistency, and discover colours that resonate with your style. Whether you’re an established oil painter or ready to take the next step in your practice, these paints offer a remarkable addition to your toolkit.