The Dye Garden

Before synthetic pigments came into use, various plant species were used to extract pigment. For years, Marike has been dedicated to the artisanal production of paints, such as oil paint and egg tempera.

"Making your own paint with pure natural pigments adds an extra dimension to the work."

Opposite Atelier De Heerlijkheid lies a special garden: the Dye Garden. This is the beating heart of our location in Bokhoven. Here, we grow mostly native and historical dye plants from which we extract pigments and binders. Hidden within the flowers, leaves, and roots is an ancient world of color that remains unknown to many. Following the seasons, we sow, tend, and harvest plants such as woad for indigo blue and madder for beautiful red lake pigment. We also grow flax, providing us with a base for the paint: linseed oil.

The colors the garden yields each year depend on the sun and rain, the soil, and the care we give the garden. In the studio, we process this harvest by hand into paint and ink. But that’s not all; we even make our own brushes from the hair of our pigs. After all, craftsmanship is central to both the paint lab and the studio.

Chemist Rick, an 'alchemist' in the historical sense of the word, researches how color from plants can be converted into high-quality pigments. He examines factors like acidity and lightfastness to ensure that a color is not only beautiful but also reliable and durable. Historical recipes are revisited, tested, and, where necessary, adapted for modern times with a focus on sustainability.

For Marike, this is "paint with a story." Plant-based dyes often provide a richness and depth that feels different from flatter synthetic colors. She uses this artisanal paint in her own work and loves sharing what she discovers and creates. The Dye Garden is always freely accessible. If Marike and Rick are available, they would be happy to give you a short tour.