Watercolour is a medium of transparency and light — and the Iridescent Medium takes that relationship with light one step further, adding a pearlescent, metallic shimmer to watercolour paint that catches and shifts with the angle of view. It is one of those mediums that sounds like a novelty but turns out to have genuine and considered creative applications, particularly for painters interested in luminosity, atmosphere, and the kind of chimerical, otherworldly quality that conventional watercolour cannot easily achieve.
The medium contains fine pearlescent particles that, when mixed with watercolour or applied over a dried wash, impart a soft reflective quality to the surface — somewhere between a sheen and a metallic glow. The effect is most pronounced and most beautiful when used with transparent watercolour colours, where the combination of colour transparency and pearlescent shimmer produces a depth and complexity that is very difficult to achieve by any other means. It is particularly effective applied over dark backgrounds, where the contrast between the dark ground and the iridescent surface creates a striking luminosity.
The strength of the effect is controllable — the more medium used relative to paint or water, the stronger and more visible the shimmer. Used sparingly it adds a subtle glow or sheen to an area; used more generously it produces a clearly visible metallic, pearl-like quality. Applied over a dried wash as a glazing layer it adds lustre to a finished area without disturbing the colour beneath. Mixed directly into the paint on the palette, the iridescence is integrated into the colour itself.
It is an excellent medium for subjects where light and luminosity are central — water, skies, feathers, petals, fabric, decorative and illustrative work, and any subject where a sense of magic or atmosphere is the aim. Shake well before use, and rinse brushes thoroughly after use.
What effect does the Iridescent Medium produce? It adds a pearlescent, metallic shimmer to watercolour paint that shifts with the angle of light and view. The effect ranges from a subtle glow to a clearly visible iridescent sheen depending on how much medium is used.
When is it most effective? It is most striking when mixed with transparent watercolour colours and when used over dark backgrounds, where the contrast between the dark ground and the iridescent surface produces the greatest luminosity. It also works well as a glazing layer applied over a dried wash to add sheen to a finished area.
How do you control the strength of the effect? The more medium used relative to paint or water, the stronger the iridescent effect. Start with a small amount and increase until the desired level of shimmer is achieved.
Can it be applied over dried paint? Yes — it can be applied over a completely dried watercolour wash as a glazing layer, adding iridescence to a finished area without lifting or disturbing the colour beneath.
Does it affect the colour of the paint? The pearlescent particles are colourless, so the medium does not significantly alter the hue of the paint it is mixed with. It does add a slight brightening and reflective quality to the colour overall.
What size is the bottle? 75ml. Shake well before use.
