Daniel Smith
Daniel Smith: Finest Watercolours from Seattle, USA
Daniel Smith has earned a distinguished reputation as a leading manufacturer of watercolour, celebrated by artists worldwide for their exceptional quality and vibrancy.
Founded in 1976 in Seattle, USA, Daniel Smith quickly became synonymous with innovation and excellence. The company began with a mission to produce the finest handmade printing inks. However, it wasn’t long before founder Daniel Smith recognised a growing demand for artist quality watercolour paint.
He embarked on a journey to develop a range of paints that would stand out for their unique pigments and superior performance. This commitment led to the creation of the iconic Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolours, which have since become a benchmark for professional artists.
One of the defining features of Daniel Smith watercolours is their use of rare and unique pigments, including those sourced from the natural world such as genuine Lapis Lazuli. These distinctive pigments give artists the ability to achieve unique colour effects and textures that are impossible to replicate with standard paints.
Additionally, Daniel Smith’s commitment to innovation is evident in their groundbreaking PrimaTek range, made from authentic mineral pigments that offer earthy, natural tones that resonate with artists seeking authenticity in their work.
Daniel Smith watercolours are known for their remarkable lightfastness, ensuring that artworks retain their vibrancy and integrity over time. The brand offers an extensive range of over 250 paints, allowing artists to explore an endless palette of colours. From the deep, rich tones of their quinacridone colours to the subtle granulation of their earth tones, Daniel Smith watercolours are prized for their consistency, brilliance, and versatility.
For artists who demand the very best, Daniel Smith represents the pinnacle of watercolour excellence, offering a combination of tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship that is unmatched in the industry.
We invited John Cogley, the owner and CEO of Daniel Smith, to the Jackson’s London Studio for our In Conversation series. In this film, he shares insights into the history of the company, how they source rare and unique pigments, and the science behind making artist colours.