Our story
We are inspiring every artist in the world by providing sustainable, creative tools and services to release pure expression.
Colart is the world s leading artist s materials company, and we deliver true insp ira tion. The universal language of art has the power of bringing people together. Art has no boundaries. No rules. No limits. And at Colart, our role has always been to provide the tools needed to unleash freedom of expression in any shape or form. We are proud of our fine art heritage and deep roots that have inspired artists for centuries. Now it s time to take the next step; our driving force is to continue to inspire the next generation of creatives the world over. Regardless of skill, all creativity starts with a pen, pencil or brush. The starting point is always an idea that needs to be born, nurtured and grown. Our beloved brands, diversity, and deep knowledge will lead the way to a more personal relationship with our consumers, building a vibrant and creative community. Our unique global presence and passionate employees will make it happen. Welcome to the home of creativity. 2
I t s all about the artist. Our presence should always provide an experience, give guidance or inspire in some way, no matter the format or channel events, contests, art education, real and virtual galleries. We find new channels for our traditional products and add new products to our traditional channels. Our commitment to promoting artists and their work is vital. Our renowned Griffin Gallery in London, not only showcases the best of both national and international talent, but also awards the Griffin Art Prize and sponsors resident artists from around the world. And Colart s The Fine Art Collective features hands-on artist-run workshops in universities and colleges around the world on how to use artist s materials. Inspiring every artist in the world is our vision. 5
You ll be seeing a lo t more of us. As we continue our journey, there will be increased demand for our products at home, in the studio and even in the corporate work place. The creative industry is growing, and we will be there to meet that demand. But our business is irrelevant if we don t have a planet to do business on. Reducing environmental impact and increasing social responsibility is more than just a moral commitment, it adds long-term value to our company. We have some of the most respected and best-selling brands on the planet, and we have customers in 120 countries. Colart has 1,500 employees working in 16 countries with 5 production units, 4 distribution centres and 10 sales offices. Our head office is located in London. A sustainable mind-set is a natural part of the creative mind-set and will be integrated into all areas of Colart s operations. We will provide an endto-end supply chain that reduces the impact of manufacturing, waste and freight. 6
Our Brands Winsor & Newton Founded 1832 Reeves Founded 1766 Liquitex Founded 1955 Winsor & Newton is committed to the pursuit of perfection. Ever since it was founded by the partnership of chemist William Winsor and artist Henry Newton it has been a driving force in developing colour chemistry, pioneering art materials, and key developments within fine art practice. Reeves, founded at a time when art was synonymous with tradition, is a brand that champions creativity. Offering a comprehensive portfolio of creative tools, Reeves seeks to guide and inspire every generations keen creative; simplifying and democratising the benefits of art. The world s leading acrylic artist paint brand. Liquitex was the first water-based acrylic paint created in 1955 and since then they have partnered with artists to ensure that they continually evolve and innovate resulting in a long history of acrylic innovation. 8 9
Snazaroo Lefranc Bourgeois ARCHES Conté à Paris Founded 1989 Founded 1720 Founded 1492 Founded 1795 Snazaroo is the leading choice for A pioneer in fine art colour, materials For more than five centuries the ARCHES Frenchman Nicolas Conté created the quality and high standard face paint. and tools. The two founders combined paper mill has been producing the finest pencil as we know it. Used by masters like Snazaroo celebrates childhood and their botanical, biological and visionary materials for art and literary greats. Over Delacroix, Degas and Picasso, Conté à Paris provides the essentials for tapping into skills to define the natural origins of iconic the centuries, quality has always been pencils, pastels, crayons and charcoals the joys of transformative play, with pigments. Today, their broad range of paramount and today the manufacturing have changed the face of art and are the best in face painting products and fine art, children s and craft products are process brings together traditional considered to be amongst the best drawing inspirational, simple and easy to follow made to the same exacting standards. techniques with the very latest advances materials in the world. step-by-step guides. in papermaking technology. 10 11
All photography (except page 11) Charlie Bennet Photographer Page 11 Annette Labedzki DEEP ROSE GOLD (video still), 2016 Instagram Video, 30 seconds Inspiring every artist in the world. Colart International Holdings Ltd. The Studio Building, 21 Evesham Street, London, W11 4AJ T. +44 208 424 3200 E. info@colart.com W. colart.com @colart_united