Recorded Live Classes
Artist Samples
2 Reference Photos
Clear Instructions
Note: This masterclass is designed for both active painters and art enthusiasts. Even if you do not intend to paint, you will gain a profound understanding of the historical mechanics, optical physics, and material legacy that defined the Baroque era.
Recommended Paints (Modern Equivalents)
To replicate Caravaggio’s historical palette safely, Peter Donahue recommends the following modern tube paints:
- White: Titanium-Zinc White (or Titanium White thinned with solvent).
- Yellows: Nickel Titanate Yellow (PY 53) and Yellow Ochre.
- Reds: Cadmium Red Light, Transparent Iron Oxide Red (PR 101), and Quinacridone Magenta (or PR 202).
- Earths: Raw Umber and Burnt Umber.
- Greens: Viridian and Phthalo Green (Blue Shade).
- Black: Ivory Black.
Peter Donahue is an artist and designer on a mission: to make science-based color theory accessible. His short-form videos on color theory topics have earned him millions of views on social media. Peter’s free color tools and graphics have been adopted by university professors, make-up artists, opticians and other professionals, hobbyists, and students around the world. When he’s not making videos or painting in his studio, Peter teaches art fundamentals and other design classes at Morristown-Beard school in New Jersey. He has delivered keynotes and workshops on color theory for a variety of institutions, including the Inter-Society Color Council, Rhode Island School of Design, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, and Contemporary Arts Memphis. Peter has also done freelance graphic design work and color theory consulting for universities, tech start-ups, fashion brands, and a major crayon manufacturer.
Course Includes
- 2 Lessons
About the instructor
Peter Donahue
Peter Donahue — Instructor, Color Theory Peter Donahue is an educator and content creator whose teaching brings clarity and accessibility to one of art’s most misunderstood subjects: color. Best known for his online presence as @color.nerd on TikTok (480,000 followers) and @art.pete.repeat on Instagram (400,000 followers), he has helped hundreds of thousands of artists, designers, and educators build a stronger understanding of how color really works. His approach combines art history, science, and hands-on practice, breaking down complex theories into practical tools that students can immediately apply in their work. Beyond social media, Peter creates courses, printable resources, and videos that are used by artists and educators around the world. Peter’s expertise is also sought by companies and institutions looking for deeper insight into color. He has consulted with clients ranging from glass manufacturers to luxury textile brands, filmmakers, and major art supply companies, advising on everything from product development to visual storytelling. As a lecturer and workshop leader, Peter has spoken internationally on the teaching of color theory, delivering keynote addresses for organizations such as the Inter-Society Colour Council and lectures at schools including RISD and Chapman University. His workshops have been hosted by museums, universities, and arts organizations, including the NSU Art Museum, Fort Lauderdale and Contemporary Arts Memphis. Whether online or in person, Peter’s goal is the same: to give artists confidence with color by replacing myths and formulas with understanding, curiosity, and play.
