RED
rainbow
Color perception is a fundamental connector between the mind and body. French philosopher Maurice Merleau-Pont says it is impossible to only see, you must feel. Whether or not we are aware, our bodies react to color. According to The Vedas, color exists as seven chakras in the body. Each hold a life function – red is our root, and focusing on it is stabilizing. Five elements acupuncture uses a similar equation, I was told me to wear red when in a life transition. You embody the color you wear. Spirituality aside, I am dedicating each newsletter to a color of the rainbow. Today is RED –
It is the start of the color spectrum. Red draws attention! It is light’s longest wave length. Red is the last visible color to scatter – making sunsets red. Red light cuts through the atmosphere. Dermatologists say it will cut through your skin. Walking west on Houston at sunset is my red light therapy.
GLAZE
The Ming Dynasty perfected red glaze. 15th century China experimented heavily oxidizing copper to make crimson ritual ware.
The porcelain became a symbol of imperial power, as the exact red was only achieved in Jingdezhen’s most advanced kilns. Copper can easily over fire and turn green.
BALLS
Red balls…there is something about them.
BOOKS
When Andy Warhol died in 1987, he left behind tens of thousands of polaroid images. Some of which had been organized into around 200 Red Books. Warhol’s booklets were a play on Mao’s 1960s Little Red Book of communist propaganda. Distributed through out China, carrying the little red book was a symbol of allegiance. They were a brilliant accessory and marketing tool.
EXIT
To conclude, the Dia Foundation’s paired back exit sign. At its core, just another red light. In the 1970’s exit signs started popping up as green because it is a more inviting color (humiliating!). Red remains prevalent as a directional command: stop, exit, fire, off. Low battery red is my least favorite. I am looking forward to orange next week!
WITH LOVE, KELSEY