Grumbacher Academy Acrylic Paint Mars Black — 150ml Gloss, Heavy-Bodied High Coverage

Grumbacher Academy Mars Black is a dense, glossy acrylic paint in a 150ml tube made from synthetic iron oxide for strong coverage and neutral greys.

Designed for students and working artists, this Mars Black from Grumbacher's Academy Acrylic line delivers professional-looking results without the premium price. The 150ml plastic tube holds a heavy-bodied, glossy formula that spreads smoothly, tints predictably, and resists fading with an ASTM lightfast rating of 1. Made in the USA, this pigment is animal cruelty-free and formulated without carbon black.

How does Mars Black perform when covering large areas?

This Mars Black lays down as a dense, even film that excels at filling broad sections without appearing streaky. Because the pigment produces a substantial dry paint film, you’ll get strong, opaque coverage using fewer coats compared with many other black pigments.

• Heavy-bodied formula for even, non-streaky coverage
• High pigmentation reduces the need for multiple layers
• Gloss finish maintains surface sheen across large passages

What kind of mixing and tinting behavior can I expect?

Mars Black has notable tinting strength but behaves neutrally when blended into greys and muted tones, making it a reliable choice for value studies, underpainting, and controlled darkening. Its synthetic iron oxide base prevents unexpected colour shifts that can occur with some carbon-based blacks.

• Produces essentially neutral greys when mixed with whites
• Strong tinting power—use sparingly for subtle shadows
• Consistent colour behavior across mediums and layers

Is this paint lightfast and durable for finished work?

Yes—each colour in the Academy Acrylic range, including this Mars Black, carries an ASTM lightfast rating of 1 (Excellent), indicating strong resistance to fading under normal display conditions. The resulting dry film is sturdy and well suited to both practice pieces and finished artwork intended for long-term display.

• ASTM lightfast rating 1 — excellent permanence
• Durable dry film suitable for display and framing
• Gloss surface retains visual depth over time

Who is this for? Grumbacher Academy Mars Black (150ml) is ideal for students, educators, and professional artists seeking an affordable, highly pigmented black with predictable mixing characteristics. It suits those who need strong coverage for large areas, neutral greys for tonal work, or a reliable black that won’t compromise lightfastness. Available in multiple tube sizes across the Academy line, it’s a practical addition to palette kits, classroom sets, and studio collections.

Features:

• A dense, heavy modern Black with good tinting strength, making Greys that are essentially neutral
• Use for covering relatively large areas because it makes a dry paint film superior to those formed by other blacks
• ASTM lightfast rating of 1- Excellent
• Highly pigmented and superior tinting strength
• Part of a student line of 48 brilliant process colours, metallic and iridescent colours at an affordable price. Made in USA