colour symbolism
Colour plays a powerful role in our everyday lives, influencing how we feel, what we do, and the choices we make, often without us even realising. Sometimes it’s down to learned associations, other times it’s an instinctive psychological response. But what about when we sleep? I found myself wondering… does colour hold meaning in our…
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If I asked you what’s the first colour that comes to mind when you think of Ireland, it’s likely to be green. On March 17th, the Irish the world over celebrate their patron saint. But how did the colour green become associated with St Patrick and become their good luck colour? There are many thoughts…
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The festival of Holi became internationally famous for throwing of colour. It’s a glorious festival of colour, which is celebrated at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month, which this year began at sunset on Sunday 24 March, and continued until sunset on last night, Monday 25 March.…
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Every year, an estimated 250 million roses are grown worldwide for Valentine’s Day. A staggering number that demonstrates just how significant this tradition has become. Unsurprisingly, red dominates, accounting for around 83% of those roses sold. But what does this mean beyond tradition? The overwhelming preference for red isn’t just about tradition, it reveals a…
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Red is a colour we all react to, sometimes without even realising it. It can ignite passion, boost confidence, or signal danger. But have you ever wondered why? At the Foundation of Colours online Summit this March, I’ll be exploring exactly that in my talk: “The Power of Red: Discover Your Relationship with the Boldest…
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Gong hei fat choy! It’s Chinese New Year, and red is everywhere! But have you ever wondered why this bold, fiery colour dominates the celebrations? Also known as the Spring Festival, Chinese New Year is one of the biggest and most important events in the Chinese calendar. And red (紅 hóng) isn’t just a festive…
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Today is apparently the most depressing day of the year. It even has its own name – ‘Blue Monday’. It’s based on Dr. Cliff Arnall’s ‘formula’ where he gathered a number of factors such as Christmas holidays withdrawals, debt, low motivational levels, weather etc. And the calculations all added up to the third Monday in…
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As 2024 draws to a close, I always enjoy reflecting on the articles that resonated most with readers this year. From The Not-So-Unexpected Red Theory and questioning whether it’s time to say goodbye to grey in the office, to neurodiversity shaping the future of workplace design, the balance between sustainability and colour trends, and the…
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If you have ever wondered why red robins are associated with Christmas? Let me share with you two stories I’ve heard. The first one is about postmen in Victorian Britain who were apparently nicknamed “robins” because of their red-breasted coloured uniforms. It then became popular to see these cute little birds on a Christmas card…
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One of my favourite things about Christmas is wrapping presents for my friends and family in beautifully coloured paper, ribbons and bows. Colour is the first thing we see and we instantly have an emotional reaction. It can have an influence on our mood, feelings and behaviour. So choosing wrapping paper and all the trimmings with…
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