Promotional graphic for Night School. On the left, a close-up of an artist’s work surface with watercolor pans, a paintbrush or palette knife, and a dish containing blue paint on a paint-splattered tabletop. On the right, against a teal-blue background, a white owl logo appears beside the text “NIGHT SCHOOL.”

An Introduction to Mineral Pigments & Paints

02 November 2026 18:00 - 20:00 Virtual

02 November 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual

Mineral Pigments and Paints: a practical introduction

This course will introduce the concept of colour in minerals and suitability of mineral pigments to be transformed into artists pigments. The course will cover the geology and distribution of earth pigments such as ochres and mineral pigments including malachite and azurite. The course will focus on the practical knowledge required to process and purify  minerals and earths to make artists’ quality pigments and to transform them into paints using various binders. It is suitable for anyone with an interest in pigments and paintmaking and requires no previous knowledge.

The Geological Society Night School offers an engaging way to explore geoscience through live, expert-led online sessions designed for curious and enquiring minds. The courses provide an opportunity to discover a wide range of topics within geoscience, in a format that is welcoming, flexible, and accessible. Whether your interest lies in dinosaurs, volcanoes, space, or the history of geology, each session is designed to spark curiosity and build understanding in an enjoyable and approachable way.

These evening sessions introduce geoscience topics in a clear and informal style, making it easy for anyone to take part and engage. You do not need any previous knowledge to join. Whether you are discovering geoscience for the first time or returning to a long-held interest, Night School offers a welcoming space to learn, ask questions, and explore new ideas.

For more information on Night School, including other courses that are taking place, click here.

This session will take place on Wednesday 02 November 2026, at 18:00 (GMT) via Zoom. The module will approximately finish at 20:00.

Joining details will be sent out a few days before the session begins.

Please note this is a live session and therefore a recording will not be made available.

A person wearing a mustard‑coloured top with a light green patterned scarf, standing in front of an ornate carved backdrop featuring intricate swirling shapes and cut‑out details. A black strap is visible across the person’s chest.

Dr Ruth Siddall

Dr Ruth Siddall is a geologist and materials scientist whose work explores the intersections of Earth sciences, art, archaeology and cultural heritage. She specialises in the study of minerals, rocks, pigments, ceramics and historic building materials. Ruth is recognised for her expertise in pigment analysis and is co-author of The Pigment Compendium: A Dictionary of Historical Pigments. 

Standard £25

Concession* £15

*The concession rate is available students, teachers, or retired individuals. Proof of concessionary status should be provided upon request.