Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolors

In 1832 chemist William Winsor and artist Henry Newton brought together the knowledge of the scientist and the creativity of the artist to offer an unprecedented choice of color, clarity and permanence to fine artists. Winsor & Newton pinpointed what was really needed – a regular source of reliable colors and brushes. Winsor & Newton first developed vastly-improved watercolors, followed by a number of other innovations including Chinese white, the first durable opaque white watercolor, and collapsible tin tubes for both oils and watercolors.

A series of royal appointments and awards in the late 1800s paved the way for Winsor & Newton to take its colors around the world.In the early 20th century Winsor & Newton expanded its range to offer key value ranges. It also expanded its factories to ensure color and brush production carried on through both world wars. But William and Henry’s original ethos stayed at the heart of the business – whenever there was a new, exciting or better pigment or binder available, Winsor & Newton introduced it, including Designers gouache, fast drying oils, water mixable oils and the revolutionary Artists’ Acrylic (now Professional Acrylic).

William and Henry’s commitment to quality and innovation are part of a rich heritage which informs Winsor & Newton to this day. They are dedicated to the craft of the fine artist and to providing them with new ways to explore their creativity, allowing them to share their work with a worldwide community. They embrace new ideas, we seek out the latest technologies and materials and devote their time to creating the world’s finest art materials, which are used by some of the world’s finest artists.