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The Secret Lives of Colour


Synopsis


'A mind-expanding tour of the world without leaving your paintbox. Every colour has a story, and here are some of the most alluring, alarming, and thought-provoking. Very hard painting the hallway magnolia after this inspiring primer.'
Simon Garfield


The Secret Lives of Colour
tells the unusual stories of the 75 most fascinating shades, dyes and hues. From blonde to ginger, the brown that changed the way battles were fought to the white that protected against the plague, Picasso's blue period to the charcoal on the cave walls at Lascaux, acid yellow to kelly green, and from scarlet women to imperial purple, these surprising stories run like a bright thread throughout history. In this book Kassia St Clair has turned her lifelong obsession with colours and where they come from (whether Van Gogh's chrome yellow sunflowers or punk's fluorescent pink) into a unique study of human civilisation. Across fashion and politics, art and war, The Secret Lives of Colour tell the vivid story of our culture.

Summary

Chapter 1: Red

Summary: Red is the color of passion, energy, and danger. It is associated with fire, blood, and love. Red is often used in advertising to attract attention and create a sense of urgency.

Real-life example: The red stop sign is a universal symbol of danger and warns drivers to halt.

Chapter 2: Orange

Summary: Orange is the color of optimism, enthusiasm, and creativity. It is associated with the sun, citrus fruits, and fall foliage. Orange is often used in design to create a sense of warmth and cheerfulness.

Real-life example: The orange safety vest is worn by workers to increase visibility and prevent accidents.

Chapter 3: Yellow

Summary: Yellow is the color of happiness, sunshine, and hope. It is associated with the sun, flowers, and birds. Yellow is often used in marketing to promote products that are cheerful and optimistic.

Real-life example: The yellow smiley face is a universal symbol of happiness and positivity.

Chapter 4: Green

Summary: Green is the color of nature, growth, and prosperity. It is associated with plants, forests, and money. Green is often used in design to create a sense of tranquility and peace.

Real-life example: The green recycling bin is used to collect recyclable materials, promoting environmental sustainability.

Chapter 5: Blue

Summary: Blue is the color of the sky, the ocean, and trust. It is associated with peace, tranquility, and serenity. Blue is often used in design to create a sense of calm and relaxation.

Real-life example: The blue police uniform instills a sense of trust and authority among citizens.

Chapter 6: Indigo

Summary: Indigo is the color of intuition, wisdom, and spirituality. It is associated with the ocean depths, the night sky, and dreams. Indigo is often used in design to create a sense of mystery and intrigue.

Real-life example: The indigo dye used in traditional Japanese textiles symbolizes royalty and opulence.

Chapter 7: Violet

Summary: Violet is the color of creativity, imagination, and royalty. It is associated with the flowers of the same name, grapevines, and amethyst. Violet is often used in design to create a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Real-life example: The purple drapes and velvet upholstery in royal palaces evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance.

Chapter 8: White

Summary: White is the color of purity, innocence, and new beginnings. It is associated with snow, clouds, and wedding gowns. White is often used in design to create a sense of spaciousness and cleanliness.

Real-life example: The white coats worn by doctors and scientists symbolize professional expertise and purity of intention.

Chapter 9: Black

Summary: Black is the color of mystery, power, and sophistication. It is associated with the night, darkness, and shadows. Black is often used in design to create a sense of elegance and drama.

Real-life example: The black tuxedos worn by formal attendees signify power, sophistication, and a sense of occasion.

Chapter 10: Gray

Summary: Gray is the color of neutrality, balance, and stability. It is associated with fog, clouds, and metal. Gray is often used in design to create a sense of sophistication and timelessness.

Real-life example: The gray walls of a conference room provide a neutral backdrop that enhances focus and concentration.