A personal insight into the world of colour
Barbara Diethelm, owner of Lascaux, speaks about her understanding of colour, material quality and artistic practice.
At the heart of the conversation is the impact of colour beyond its technical function, and the role that quality, experience and attitude play in this context.
The interview was recorded as part of the podcast “Geistreich am Samstag” and also offers insights into her book "Colours of the Great Heart".
The Swiss manufactory guided by passion for craftsmanship
Company founder Alois K. Diethelm (1919–1995) was a trained painter and plasterer whose vision extended far beyond his trade. In the 1950s, he developed a water-based paint for decorators – a pioneering technical achievement at the time. Encouraged by artist friends, he took this innovation a step further and began producing artists’ colours using this then-novel technology. In 1963, he introduced the first acrylic artists’ paint on the European continent.
In 1995, following her father’s passing, Barbara Diethelm took over the management of the company. An artist herself, her product philosophy focuses on a consistent, timeless range of the highest quality. Under her passionate leadership, the company’s artisanal tradition has been further refined and expanded.
Lascaux company portrait
In the video company portrait, owner Barbara Diethelm takes you on a journey through the history and production facilities of Lascaux. Along the way, she talks with artists, art therapist, conservators and employees—making her very personal connection to colors tangible.
«The spirit of colours» on video
Vision
Primal Force
Quality
Our commitment to the next generation
All good schools know how important it is for children and young people to experience creative work and art. Haus Konstruktiv in Zurich and Lascaux work together to offer exciting workshops for children and school classes.
You can find more information on the Haus Konstruktiv website.
What does it take?
Colours that retain their brilliance, offer outstanding lightfastness, are easy to apply and highly economical – these are the qualities that matter to users. They provide creative freedom and reliability in application, and ensure that a work endures over time exactly as it was created.
What does it take to achieve this? It begins with the raw materials – the finest pigments, binders and ingredients, carefully composed into individual formulations for every colour. Precision and care are essential in the mixing and refinement process. Each step is carried out and finely tuned by our specialists. With experience and sensitivity, they ensure the quality that makes Lascaux colours so distinctive, day after day. So that you, our customers, receive the best possible materials. That is our commitment.
Fondation Lascaux
The Fondation Lascaux explores the impact of colour on human thinking and mental development. Its core focus lies in fostering self-reflection and creativity through colour, as well as in developing new ways of connecting art, science, business and personal development.
The Fondation organises lectures, seminars and exhibitions in Switzerland and abroad.