BACKGROUND
Colour plays many roles in our lives

Colour plays many roles in our lives - it is the primary means by which we decipher the world. But we take it for granted. A discussion about the many roles of colour in our lives is a good way to start studying colour. How does each image below represent a role for colour?

A: Colours help us survive – as individuals, and as species

The butterfly is attracted by the colours of the flowers and feeds on the nectar, so colour helps it survive as an individual. As it feeds, the butterfly picks up pollen from the flower, and transfers it to other flowers which results in the production of seeds. The next generation of the flower grows from these seeds, so colour helps the survival of the species.

The colours on the butterfly’s wings identify it as a member of a particular species. These colour patterns play a role in attracting other butterflies of that species. This attraction can lead to mating and the birth of the next generation – survival of the species. Also: the ‘eye spots’ on the butterfly’s wing are believed to act as a deterrent to predators. Again, survival of the species.

B: Colours signal danger

The distinctive colour pattern of the venomous coral snake warns other animals, especially potential predators, to keep their distance. Some non-venomous snakes have evolved to mimic this colour pattern as a defence against predators.

C: Colours can symbolize warnings

Some colours and colour combinations can be seen to have a ‘natural’ meaning. In the natural world reds are conspicuous and can act as a warning, as can combinations of black and yellow. This kind of colour meaning has been widely adopted in culture, especially for warning signs on the road. The red octagon with white lettering has become almost universal as a STOP sign. You can understand the meaning without being able to read the Thai script. We can also interpret the black arrow as referring to something that is ahead, in this case the need to STOP.

D: Colours keep us safe

The vivid orange of a forest fire can also be understood as conveying a ‘natural’ meaning. In fact, orange does not need to be produced by a forest fire to attract attention or signify danger. In some contexts, some of the feelings associated with the spectacle of a forest fire can be communicated by the colour alone. 

D: Colours can be calming

It can be a very peaceful experience to sit on the beach looking out at a calm sea at the end of a fine day. Just as we can experience an echo of the terror from a forest fire in the colour orange, so we can experience an echo of the peace from the sea and sky in these pale blues.    

F: Colours let us know when food is ready to eat, or when it is unsafe

Colour plays a strong role in signalling when foods are ready to eat, or when food has gone bad and is no longer safe to eat. We constantly use colour as a tool to find out about our immediate environment.

G: Colours help us distinguish and identify

There is nothing ‘natural’ in the colour patterns of the silks worn by the jockeys, but without this form of identification it would be impossible to follow the progress of a race.

H: Colours can communicate ideas in specific contexts or cultures

A white rectangle on a blue background is the signal flag for the letter ‘P’. This flag is also known as the ‘Blue Peter’ and is flown by a ship when it is about to sail. Here again there is no ‘natural’ connection between the flag design and the message. It only means that the ship is about to sail because that meaning has been established in a particular culture.

J: Colours can decorate our spaces

Colours play a key role in establishing the atmosphere of interiors. The Brighton Pavilion was remodelled for the Prince Regent – later King George IV. It was to be a seaside retreat, but also a place for extravagant parties where he could astonish his guests.

K: Colours bring us joy

Natural phenomena like rainbows and the aurora have provided great inspiration to many cultures throughout history. Even today they instill a sense of wonder and joy.

Can you think of other roles colour plays in our lives? Create your own selection of images.