tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:/blogs/colour-blog?p=2
colour blog
2018-07-12T17:47:12+02:00
Colour in My World
false
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/2813337
2014-03-26T13:29:21+01:00
2020-06-27T13:33:23+02:00
A Festival Of Colours. Happy Holi !
<p>Spring has most definitely sprung !</p>
<p>It’s lovely to witness the little ones venturing outside into the sunshine without their winter woolies, the emerging of a kaleidoscope of fresh colours across the landscape and have you heard the dawn chorus recently? all signs marking the seasonal change.</p>
<p>With the passing of the March equinox on the 20th March, the mid-way point where the daylight hours are increasing, there were many a spring celebration taking place. This particular one recently though caught my eye and has to be on my bucket list.</p>
<p><strong>A festival of <span style="color:#ff0000;">c<span style="color:#ff6600;">o</span></span><span style="color:#ff9900;">l</span><span style="color:#00ff00;">o</span><span style="color:#00ffff;">u<span style="color:#0000ff;">r</span></span><span style="color:#ff00ff;">s</span></strong><span style="color:#ff00ff;">,</span> otherwise known as Holi, the celebration which has its roots in Hinduism in India.</p>
<p>An orchestra of love, laughter and colours are being celebrated and it’s catching on in many other parts of the world too and I can see why.Dubai England, Germany, Mexico,the Caribbean & America to name a few.Currently Spanish folk in Utah has the largest celebration of the festival in the west.</p>
<div id="false" style="width: 364px" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS8HBcSaF-7zJT7HZoVWpcmypO0EM4fxn7Or1nM6VlaXgi4Ijfi" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="168" width="354" /><p class="wp-caption-text">A picture of happiness</p>
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<p>At the approach of the equinox, when the moon is full, gatherings take place where bonfires are lit to commence the start of the #colour festival.Varying stories are told that have passed from generation to generation and folk songs are sung with accompanying music.During this time people gather to celebrate not just the arrival of spring but a time when people are supposed to be equal, forget and forgive, a time for making new friends, wishing for a good season and commemorating the good harvests of the past. Seen to many as the start of the new year.</p>
<p>The next day is a complete free for all, people of all races, ages, backgrounds and creeds, chase each other, playfully painting, splashing and spraying one another with coloured powder,dancing and singing – sounds like great childhood fun to me !</p>
<div id="false" style="width: 244px" class="wp-caption alignleft">
<img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQdtSe-1Xh1g2b-gVUH_UBwJvC-WqqjMytLtP96k0jciNvForVa" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="173" width="234" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Powder for sale in the markets</p>
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<p>Traditionally the coloured powder is made from natural herbs, spices and plants.Roots like beetroot for red, turmeric is the typical spice for yellow and sources of blue include jacaranda flowers. A rainbow of colours as I’m sure you know, can be mixed from these three primary colours alone.</p>
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<p>I think the rainbow song I wrote encompasses the mood of the celebration and is perfect for the children to sing at these festivals of colour.</p>
<p><span class="embed-youtube" style="text-align:center; display: block;"><iframe class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="540" height="334" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RvNprVe2-hQ?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent" frameborder="0"></iframe></span></p>
<p>Anyone and everyone is a human canvas and will get totally covered in powdered paint & water. Giant water fights with coloured water filled balloons abound in the streets,parks,even outside temples. It is believed that the combination of different colours take all the sorrow away and make life itself more colourful. “What a fantastic belief”!</p>
<p>In some parts of the world celebrations go on for days or even weeks. Worldwide organized events are contagious too, which can only be a good thing for uniting different cultures around the world. I’m looking forward to the day when I can experience the celebrations with all of my senses as authentically as possible “I guess I had better go shopping for a sari now I have a good reason,well… some are just gorgeous aren’t they?”.</p>
<p>Whilst those of us in the northern hemisphere are enjoying all of natures delights and longer warmer days, it’s quite another story for those living in the southern hemisphere who are experiencing the change leading into winter. Ah but …what goes around, comes around.</p>
<p>Enjoy your colourful seasons.</p>
<p>#colourinmyworld</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/2520167
2014-02-04T18:04:01+01:00
2021-09-06T11:58:07+02:00
Orange Oranges
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/2014-01-12-12-56-30.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/2014-01-12-12-56-30.jpg?w=225&h=300" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="2014-01-12 12.56.30" height="300" width="225" /></a>After visiting an organic market, inland from Denia on the Costa Blanca in Spain, I knew the sight of these beautiful, locally grown orange oranges was my inspiration for my blog .Yes i<span style="line-height:1.5em;">t’s that time of year already when we see the most cultivated fruit in the world in abundance and I can’t think of a more refreshing colour to have in our awareness as we enter into the second month of 2014.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height:1.5em;"> </span><strong>*</strong> It is the only colour in the rainbow named after the fruit.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong> A fun colour-it says “don’t worry be happy”</p>
<div id="attachment_646" style="width: 250px" class="wp-caption alignleft">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/q.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/q.jpg?w=240&h=159" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt=" Complementary colours in this stunning kingfisher." height="159" width="240" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Complementary colours in this stunning kingfisher.</p>
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<p><strong>* </strong>A favorite with painters through the ages, especially Vincent Van Gogh.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong> To experience the wonderful essence of orange and the many benefits why not use ”organic orange oil” in a burner at home”…one of my favorites! ” I like it with cinnamon too but that’s just sooo last year” !!</p>
<div id="attachment_650" style="width: 220px" class="wp-caption alignright">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/fotolia_12441330_m.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/fotolia_12441330_m.jpg?w=210&h=210" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="just like these boys- blue & orange are best friends" height="210" width="210" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">just like these boys- blue & orange are best friends</p>
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<strong> *</strong>Children love orange – it’s playful and gets the creativity (orange) juices flowing. It can also encourage independence and boost the immune system.</div>
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<div>* Choose from the many shades and tints of orange like pumpkin,rust,coral peach and apricot to get the orange vibes going or add just a splash in accessories or in a print.</div>
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<div>I think it’s a great run up to the big loved up day #Valentines, just around the corner,after all orange is half red.</div>
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<div>For more information about #children’s colour analysis i.e what colours suit different children’s colouring, check out my book “Colour In My World” on Amazon or visit <a href="http://www.colourinmyworld.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.colourinmyworld.com</a> .</div><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/colourswork.wordpress.com/642/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/colourswork.wordpress.com/642/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=colourswork.wordpress.com&blog=30308595&post=642&subd=colourswork&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/1960750
2013-10-31T09:14:28+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:30+01:00
Halloween and colours
<p><em>” Boo “ !!</em></p>
<p>Tonight’s not all about <strong>black</strong>, signifying death, <strong>orange</strong> carved pumpkins, to ward of unwanted spirits and <strong>purple</strong>‘s aid in magic spells.</p>
<p>Halloween itself does have some very dark connotations, that said, not many folks want to miss out on a party.</p>
<p>This is also the time of year however, to celebrate and appreciate the last of the summer harvest. A true celebration of colour with all the glorious colours of our fruit and vegetables which we so often take for granted.</p>
<p>N.B. It might not be a great idea though, to go to a fancy dress party with a basket of fruit on your head-not a good look which ever colours suit you.</p>
<p>So it’s out with the old and in with the new, as we come together to celebrate and say goodbye to the summer.</p>
<p>As we welcome in the Autumn season, with the sights of the rich autumnal colours painting the landscape , it is a visual reminder that each season brings its own unique colour palette, connecting the cycles, that can not only be seen but also felt.</p>
<p>Enjoy your colourful celebrations!</p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/colourswork.wordpress.com/560/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/colourswork.wordpress.com/560/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=colourswork.wordpress.com&blog=30308595&post=560&subd=colourswork&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/1577446
2013-06-21T14:58:38+02:00
2022-06-02T03:34:38+02:00
Time For Summer Pastels ?
<p>We are already officially in the middle of summer.The 21st of June had the longest day light hours for those of us living in the northern hemisphere. Although sunshine this summer is not quite as evident as we’re used to, there’s nothing stopping us from feeling more summery by wearing nature’s beautiful pastel colours.</p>
<p>In some calendars the solstice (21st June) is regarded as the <em>start</em> of summer so let’s get…..</p>
<h4><strong> In The Mood For Summer</strong></h4>
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<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_8652011_m.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_8652011_m.jpg?w=161&h=242" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="In the mood for icecream colours!" height="242" style="margin-left:10px;margin-right:10px;" width="161" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ice cream colours</p>
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<p><strong>In the soft blue sky are the sun’s rays,</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summer fun and happy days,</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pastel kites gently floating by,</strong></p>
<p><strong>Strawberry and vanilla ice-cream,</strong></p>
<p><strong>My oh my.</strong></p>
<p><strong><span id="more-483"></span></strong></p>
<p>Pastels are tints, made when white is added to a colour, creating a softer version, a lighter more gentle vibration.</p>
<p>Pastel colours are calmer, more soothing and much more suited to babies and younger children than strong clear colours, although this fact has been totally discarded by clothing manufacturers in recent years. Whilst babies can see and distinguish brightly contrasting shades more easily, they can overstimulate… pastels are gentle on the eye and on the emotions, not just for the little ones but for all ages.</p>
<p>Just like true colours have an underlying cool or warm tone which can complement or distract from a child’s colouring, the same also applies to pastels.</p>
<p>For children with cool colouring the best options are – soft white, sky blue, baby pink, soft lemon yellow, mint green, lavender. You can also look for pastels with pearlescent or silvery tones which are very flattering, making them look healthy by reflecting the natural cool undertones of their skin, hair and eyes.</p>
<p>For children with warmer colouring good options are - aqua blue, mango, peaches and cream, light gold, pale yellow-green, soft warm violet. Diluting a colour with white to create a pastel shade has a tendency to shift it towards cooler tones, so to avoid a child with warm colouring looking pale and washed out remember to try to keep the undertones warm to reflect their golden glow i.e peach rather than pink, aqua blue is better than pastel blue and pastel gold is warmer than pale yellow .</p>
<div id="attachment_495" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 129px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_10126292_xs1.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_10126292_xs1.jpg?w=119&h=180" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Warm colouring" height="180" width="119" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Warm colouring</p>
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<p>Children are naturally drawn to pastel shades, particularly younger ones. Natural fabrics are kind and soft against young skins, they’re also breathable and allow the therapeutic power of colour to pass through more easily.</p>
<p>Pink- The motherly loving vibration -It will help comfort and re-assure. Pink is connected with health, the underlying tone of healthy skin whether warm or cool.</p>
<p>Peach- The soft version of orange – helps children with learning disabilities, encourages creativity and sense of fun.</p>
<div id="attachment_493" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 121px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_346700_m.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_346700_m.jpg?w=111&h=168" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Cool colouring" height="168" width="111" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cool colouring</p>
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<p>Lemon yellow- helps to develop intelligence. Sharp lemon can be cool and acidic, sharpening the mind and the palette… but orangey sunset shades are warm and soothing.</p>
<p>The soft blues encourage help with speech, and because they are communicative and forthcoming they blend beautifully with many other colours.</p>
<p>Lavender – A soothing and protecting colour-can make a child feel safe. Tints of violet are mystical and magical and look fantastic with all of the other sweet pea pastels.</p>
<div id="attachment_487" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 208px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_9951374_xs.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/fotolia_9951374_xs.jpg?w=198&h=149" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Warm colouring" height="149" width="198" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Warm colouring</p>
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<p>Pastel green- Great for helping to calm and balance a child, especially in times of aggressive outbursts. Greens can be warm or cool, depending on whether they tend toward the yellower or bluer end of the spectrum.</p>
<p>I hope you enjoy the kaleidoscope of pastels this summer, they will reflect the sun’s heat and keep you and the little ones cool through the warmer days too.</p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Happy summertime !</strong></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_2691241_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_2691241_s.jpg?w=210&h=210" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="happy smiley face button badge" height="210" width="210" /></a></p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/784906
2013-05-21T07:12:40+02:00
2017-01-13T14:39:30+01:00
Can you guess that’s why they call it the blues?
<p>I don’t usually have difficulty writing about colour and I have to admit I’m finding it hard to get going on the subject of blue. I can only surmise it’s just far too relaxing and it’s making me feel dreamy just thinking about it.</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_17368733_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_17368733_s.jpg?w=300&h=200" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="butterfly" height="200" width="300" /></a>Blue’s vibration has many benefits.</p>
<p>* To cool and calm which is useful for children with behavioural challenges.</p>
<p>* For use with fevers as blue can even bring temperatures down. What a relief.</p>
<p>* It helps to combat fear and will aid a child to speak out and express inner feelings.</p>
<p>Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) developed colour schemes for school rooms – he used blue for the school’s stage, presumeably to help with stage fright, and to promote communications.</p>
<p>Remember that children are more sensitive to colour and the younger the child the softer and lighter the tints should be.</p>
<p>Time and again and across different cultures and ages and other factors, blue actually rates as most people’s favourite colour! We are uplifted by the sight of blue skies, the sea, we talk about ‘blue sky thinking’ to indicate the most open of mindsets and a creative outlook. So, how did this popular, peaceful colour come to be associated with depression and sadness?</p>
<p>We probably owe much of this association to blues music, the origins of which are lost in the mists of time along with the reason for the choice of name. Emerging as it did from the music of African-American slaves in the Mississippi basin and having origins in African musical forms, many early blues songs had melancholic themes reflecting great suffering and loss. The term has come to describe such a wide variety of different styles and sub-genres nowadays, but singing the blues and feeling the blues are naturally closely intertwined.</p>
<p>There are connections in art too of course – Picasso’s ‘Blue Period’ for example, These works are characterised by dramatic use of in shades of cold blue and grey, which the artist used to express his sadness and grief.</p>
<div id="attachment_480" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/7979030362_e856b032b5_o.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/7979030362_e856b032b5_o.jpg?w=300&h=200" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Picasso painted the blues" height="200" width="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Picasso painted the blues</p>
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<p>In general health terms, – a blue tinge to skin for example, as opposed to healthy rosy pink is rarely a good sign.</p>
<p>We talk about bruising leaving us ‘black and blue’, even though bruises can run through a whole spectrum of colours as they heal .</p>
<p>It is interesting to note astrologically that we are now in the age of aquarius depicting blue, an era of truth and honesty.</p>
<p>The strong cobalt blue is a very fashionable and popular colour to wear this spring but most blues are on the cold side of the spectrum of course. There are some shades that can be successfully worn by those with warm skin tones, such as highly vibrant deeper blues, sapphire blues, and those with a tinge of green like – turquoise sea blues, aqua and teal. Being kinder to most skin tones than black, navy blue is a good neutral colour to use as a base and conveys dependability and trustworthiness, often seen in uniforms.</p>
<p>Orange is blue’s complementary colour which can provide the energy boost and feeling of joyfulness that blue is lacking. You can team up blues with a wide variety of warm or cool colours. Just like too much red can be over-stimulating and bring out aggression, blue is the polar opposite and can be tiresome and lethargic if used to the extreme.</p>
<p>Whilst appreciating all that the music has brought us, perhaps its time for us to reclaim blue as the beautiful and adaptable colour that it can be – and embrace all it expresses for us in our inner worlds of light and shade? Do you love the blues, or the colour blue?</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/441325
2013-03-30T04:55:09+01:00
2021-09-14T10:47:21+02:00
Why Does Pink Stink?
<p>As March is women’s history month, this seems an appropriate time to have a look at the gender implications of colour.</p>
<p><strong>“Blue for a boy, pink for a girl”</strong></p>
<p>Curiously, it’s actually a relatively recent phenomenon. Baby books, new baby announcements and cards, gift lists and newspaper articles from the early 1900s indicate that baby-pink was just as likely to be associated with boy babies as with girl babies. It wasn’t really till post-war marketing that pink and blue took their separate gender directions.</p>
<p>Nowadays this gendering of colour this is so ingrained in our culture that we take it for granted, and I remember shopping for my baby granddaughters and finding it hard to find any clothes that weren’t divided in this way already (except for very newborn sizes, which were available in white or yellow in case you didn’t know!). Even on newborns <a title="Like Mum ? Like Dad ? Twins colouring ?" href="http://colourswork.wordpress.com/2011/12/10/like-mum-like-dad-twins-colouring/" target="_blank">the right shades matter</a>, but how much does the colour itself matter, blue or pink?</p>
<p>Perhaps in a babygrow it doesn’t, but what as children grow they are learning all the time, directly and indirectly. The Pink Stinks campaign tackles this issue head-on, highlighting toys which reinforce sexist stereotypes – a world where even trusted brands make construction, science and action toys coded blue, where arty and nurturing toys are pink.</p>
<div id="attachment_466" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 235px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/cleaning_trolleypinkstinks.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/cleaning_trolleypinkstinks.jpg?w=225&h=300" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Hmm, who do you think this toy might be aimed at..?" height="300" width="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hmm, who do you think this toy might be aimed at..?</p>
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<p>Some toys come in two colours, such as the pink globe that was on sale in the Early Learning Centre. The implication is clearly that girls can’t cope with hard geography unless it is feminised in some way – thank goodness for all the beauty centre and domestic toys reassuringly available in bright pink, because we all know who they are aimed at. How much do these reinforcements from an early age influence how children play? By the time children are playing with others in a pre-school or group environment they have often had these stereotypes reinforced over years, so inevitably girls are drawn to the pretty pink home play area whilst the boys head straight for the trucks and cars. The stereotyping continues on into adulthood too for example Honda has a new lady car called “Fit-She’s” and you guessed it, it’s pink but not too worry it comes in a range of eyeshadow colours too-how thoughtful of them! no doubt it has a built in pink hair-styler too.</p>
<p>As an adult choosing presents for children and grandchildren to take to friend’s birthday parties I have found it difficult choosing toys for boys that are not only in blue but unpleasantly violent and aggressive. Looking for creative and artistic toys, it can be difficult finding options that are not overly pink – and the curious thing is that whilst a girl can be different and cross over into wearing or playing with things in blue, boys can never ever have anything pink! Colour should be for everyone to enjoy in its full spectrum of glory.</p>
<p>The<a href="http://www.pinkstinks.co.uk" target="_blank"> Pink Stinks</a> campaign aims at restoring the ownership of colour to every boy and girl – and removing the negative stereotyping and role reinforcement that the ‘pink for a girl’. Whilst highlighting horrible items like a cleaning kit in lovely pink and purple or perfume and make up toys for your pre-schooler, the campaign also highlights positive moves like the wonderful ‘<a href="http://www.amightygirl.com">A Mighty Girl’</a> , a collection of books and movies celebrating girls – as leaders, heroes and champions, rather than side-kicks, damsels in distress and love interests.</p>
<p>They also share links to bright colourful childrens’ clothes in a range of exciting primary shades – given a choice most small children gravitate toward bright contrasting colours, pastels don’t get a look in (small babies cannot even perceive them, so great for nursery walls maybe but not what children are drawn to). The ‘Pink Stinks Approved’ stamp is a great starting point for anyone seeking gifts and toys for children that won’t start forcing them down a narrow socially-constructed world of politically-acceptable shades.</p>
<p>Pink has even infiltrated the proper perception of colour in the spectrum itself. Whether you prefer the acronym <strong>R</strong>ichard <strong>O</strong>f <strong>Y</strong>ork <strong>G</strong>ave <strong>B</strong>attle <strong>I</strong>n <strong>V</strong>ain - the phase to remember the visible colour spectrum or my very own <strong>R</strong>iding <strong>O</strong>n <strong>Y</strong>our <strong>G</strong>rannies <strong>B</strong>ike <strong>I</strong>n <strong>V</strong>enice, there is no ‘P’ in either of those phrases. Pink is not a true colour, it’s simply a dilution of red. Yet, searching recently for accessories and toys for my granddaughter’s “rainbow themed” birthday party, everywhere I looked the rainbows had pink in them! Bunting, ballons table accessories, cupcakes and facepaints… presumably in order to make them acceptable to little girls, they had to have that stripe of pink amongst all the others.</p>
<p>By enforcing gender stereotypes in colour we begin the process of distorting natural and spontaneous reactions, and replacing them with complex connotated baggage. This manifests years later in adults not knowing what to wear or what they look and feel good in, unable to tune into their instinctive choices and preferences, needing colour consultants like me to help them rediscover what they are most naturally drawn to.</p>
<p>I don’t want my grandchildren to grow up in a world where girls have to like pink & boys have to like blue. Letting children revel in our glorious rainbow existence is surely one of the best gifts of childhood we can bestow - It’s time for change and to stop messing about with young minds by imposing gender stereotypes before they can even learn the words to describe the colour in their world.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/328966
2013-02-26T07:34:57+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Green Shoots of Springtime
<div id="attachment_462" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/shades-of-green.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/shades-of-green.jpg?w=300&h=243" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Nature has more shades of green than we can envisage" height="243" width="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Nature has more shades of green than we can envisage</p>
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<p>We mark the end of winter and herald the coming of spring, as the land around us starts at last to turn green again.</p>
<p>Green is the colour of nature, the colour of plants… plants are green because of the chlorophyll in their cells which converts the sun’s golden energy into the transformative power of growth and change, inside each seed and indeed every cell a miracle is taking place thanks to this clever molecule. The green chlorophyll rich foods improve physical stamina which is especially good for growing children but try telling them brocolli is yummy and good for them .Wearing green can create a feeling of calm and balance just like the restorative affects after a long walk in the countryside.Wear it to be caring and sharing with friends (like friends of the earth)</p>
<p>This greening of the new growth manifests itself in so many different shades, it’s amazing. All plants are green – but think of the spectrum from bright grass shoots, tingling citrusy limes, dusky olive greens or dark perennial needles. Even amongst the leaves of any single tree you can see so many different tones and shades, there is a green for every occasion and every skintone – but as in nature they often combine very successfully with one another.</p>
<p>Even the word green comes from the old English word <i>grene</i>, - like the German word <i>grün</i>, this has the same root as the words <i>grass</i> and <i>grow</i>. Throughout history it has had this meaning in many influential cultures, such as the ancient Egyptians who celebrated the return of greenness and fertility that came with the flooding of the Nile each year. This was depended upon absolutely in a country without rainfall, and the hieroglyph for green was denoted by a papyrus sprout. The green mineral malachite was used extensively in scarabs and other ornamentation, and also associated with the sea – with which all life-giving water was ultimately associated.</p>
<p>Curiously though in other cultures despite the universal association of green shoots and life-giving crops, green receives less distinct attention. In Ancient Greece for example, green and blue were sometimes considered the same color, and the same word sometimes described the color of the sea and the color of trees.</p>
<p>Perhaps the natural phenomenon of green was less apparent in low-rainfall Mediterranean cultures, other than in Egypt when triggered abruptly by annual flooding, than in the Northern European climates of lush well-watered climes? Rather like the fabled 100 Inuit words for snow… In many modern and ancient south-east Asian languages too, a single character or word indicates both green and blue, which are subject to descriptive modifiers if you want to be specific about which shade</p>
<p>Of course whilst green stands for healthy and welcome growth in the springtime, it can also have less positive associations such as the growth of mould and putrefaction, and illness/nausea. Green can be connected with youthful naiveté, or an unreadiness, lack of ripeness or maturity. Thanks to the fateful warnings of Shakespeare’s Iago we also have a very English cultural association of the colour green with envy – the ‘green eyed monster’ in question commonly understood to be a cat toying playfully with its prey.</p>
<p>But spring is coming! And we can forget the negativity and focus on the glory and abundance of the greenness that is starting to return to our horizons. As shoots of bulbs burst through mud and snow, the lawns and fields turn fresh and clean, and new leaves and buds return to the trees.</p>
<p>Is it time for your wardrobe and look to embrace the green of the new season? Look out in the shops this year for striking bright emerald greens, a yellowy but muted linden shade, and dusky grey lichen green which is ideal for cooler skintones. Whilst block colours are striking, remember as in nature you can mix your greens up beautifully with contrasting or harmonious shades, to create your own unique springtime palette.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/293154
2013-01-30T06:18:46+01:00
2023-12-10T19:15:00+01:00
COLOUR IS THE NEW BLACK FOR 2013
<p>What colours will you be wearing this year ?</p>
<p>Put the flags out ! All the colours in the rainbow are in. This is wonderful news, to help lift the world out of the doom and gloom of recessionary neutrals. The catwalks have been ablaze with a riot of colour for this coming season, so which is your favourite – or are you going to wear them all together?</p>
<p>RED</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_743532_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_743532_s.jpg?w=170&h=170" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="poppy red" height="170" width="170" /></a>Poppy red is predicted to be the colour of the year according to Pantone LLC the global authority on colour for 50 years. Depending on your skin tone you can look for reds that have orangey hints, or else cooler brick-red or raspberry notes. Red is a great colour to look ahead to spring with - Symbolizing compassion and strength, it reminds us what nature is up to. Colours that are born anew each year lifting our spirits and stirring our emotions. Red sings out loudest across a crowed room. It has the ability to lift our energy levels and help us to feel confident too.</p>
<p>ORANGE</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_17604617_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_17604617_s.jpg?w=130&h=90" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Blume mit weissem Hintergrund" height="90" width="130" /></a>Orange encompasses a wide range of related tints and shades, from tangerine to coral to bright rust. It suggests warmth and ripeness, enthusiasm,creativity and friendship. Think of these values bursting forth, and remember orange can work very well as an accent or highlight colour perhaps in accessories or a print.</p>
<p>YELLOW</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_2691241_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_2691241_s.jpg?w=108&h=108" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="happy smiley face button badge" height="108" width="108" /></a>Yellows can be acid sharp, golden sunflower or the palest of lemons. Yellow is brimming with joy, vitality, intelligence, persuasion and charm. Yellows appears on the cosmetic scene with bright nail polishes and eyeshadow, try to pick the right undertones that go with your natural colouring, it can make all the difference to how you look and feel. Wear your yellow with confidence and happiness, if you don’t feel confident enough to wear it as a block colour look for prints or little splashes of yellow energy to enhance your wardrobe and acknowlege the longer sunnier days that are coming.</p>
<p>GREEN</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_1527219_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_1527219_s.jpg?w=270&h=180" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="treefrog" height="180" width="270" /></a>Greens are always in demand, and this season colours range from emerald to soft jade, as well as pistachio and bright lime green. Greens always combine beautifully, as the colour of nature, and in the natural world there is no such thing as solid block colour – think about shades and tints of this very popular hue and accenting/combining with other colours too as green is all about synergy, balance, abundance and growth – bring on springtime, we can’t wait! Green is a grounding, calming colour in all its many shades, so why not choose something green when you need to feel creative and steady, to help you generate new ideas and sense of purpose</p>
<p>BLUE</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_3022693_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_3022693_s.jpg?w=210&h=175" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="agate pyramide" height="175" width="210" /></a>A surprising fashion passion for 2013 is bright navy blue – this is great because it flatters so many people, and is a fantastic alternative to black as a dark shade. Natural tones of blue will be good this year, like sky blue and aqua, and blue brings us tranquillity, protection and healing. It also symbolises hope, and change – and remains one of the worlds official ‘favourite colour’ in surveys of all ages.</p>
<p>In fashion the new navies combine very well with other shades of blue, you can blend bright sky blue against a darker background, and also with a range of other shades. Look how the natural mineral tones in this image range across the intensity spectrum, and think about how blues can also work in dip-dye hippy-chic tones, as well as tight stylish blocks of colour.</p>
<p>INDIGO</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_6441081_s.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/fotolia_6441081_s.jpg?w=167&h=158" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="dewberry" height="158" width="167" /></a>Deep muted inky shades of indigo are another alternative dark shade this season, think blackberry and sapphire. These are colours you glance at quickly and think, is it black, or dark blue… then see the warmth and depth inside. indigo can also be muted and greyish, and go with so many hues. Wear them to reflect your hidden depths and insights!</p>
<p>Berry shades are often associated with autumn, so it was unusual to see so many on the catwalks for the spring season. But think of combining them with bright splashes of other colours, they work brilliantly as a backdrop of dark neutrality that will not suck the energy out of other shades in the way that a pairing with black so often can.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>VIOLET</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/african-violet-fabrizio-troiani.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/african-violet-fabrizio-troiani.jpg?w=300&h=199" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="african-violet-fabrizio-troiani" height="199" width="300" /></a>The anticipation of spring brings flower-inspired colours you can smell from delicate lilacs to blazing bright african violet. Suggesting intuitive success, violet is a powerful colour to wear, and if you find it overwhelming in a block look for prints and accessories which can bring this gorgeous colour into YOUR world.</p>
<p>Equally appealing on the softer side, we see nudes and dreamy, laid back fleshy colours. Tints of colour like heather/silver grey and linen will flatter cool skin tones while champagne/bronze and oyster will be lovely on warmer colouring. Remember you can use lighter neutrals to mix and match with your bright new colours, this can be more effective than darks for lifting your look, especially as the days are lengthening and spring starts to arrive.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nudes and pastels are going to be big in cosmetics too this year, particularly framing the eyes – allowing your natural eye tones to take centre stage.</p>
<p>Don’t be afraid to wear colour this year just go with your colour moods, be bold, feel bright and energised and project yourself happy in 2013. More colour information can be found in the book “Colour In My World”.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/269655
2012-12-21T03:44:58+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Is there A Golden Change In The Air ?
<p>This Friday 21<sup>st</sup> December marks the winter solstice for those of us in the Northern hemisphere, the shortest day, after which we can anticipate the days beginning to lighten towards the coming springtime with all of the bright fresh and lively colours emerging to lift our spirits.</p>
<p>This year however, the date is more significant than usual. 21/12/2012. The calendar of the ancient Mayan culture comes to an end. Egyptians and other indiginous cutures have the same beliefs.</p>
<p>Many people are expecting this to be a time of spiritual and celestial upheaval and realignment, as one era closes and another begins. This date also corresponds with the astrological era of Pisces coming to a close, and the new era of Aquarius dawning…This aligns neatly with the Mayan calendar, because whilst popularly interpreted as predicting ‘the end of the world’, what is truly pointed it at is the end of a cycle… the Mayan calendar is a wheel, and what goes around comes around again, approximately every 26,000 yrs.</p>
<div id="attachment_103" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px">
<a href="http://colourswork.wordpress.com/2012/12/21/is-there-a-golden-change-in-the-air/golden-sunrise/" rel="attachment wp-att-103"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/golden-sunrise.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="A Golden Age Dawns" height="225" width="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A Golden Age Dawns</p>
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<p>It makes sense in terms of the unsettled nature of the world now to anticipate and embrace change, and a desire to break free from the past and create a new future for 2013. Spiritually this could be an era of synthesis, combining the intellectual and scientific traits of the air sign Aquarius with the perceptions and intuitions of the ruling planet Uranus. A Golden Age, bringing new consciousness to the world and heightening creativity, co-operation and consensus.</p>
<p>In a world ravaged by natural disasters, economic decline, and horrific acts of brutality, the change in the air can only be for the better.</p>
<p>Gold is of course the colour of the sun, from which all abundance comes, the original source of the energy and life force for everything. Naturally it also signifies wealth, as the original pure element of commerce and transaction across many cultures throughout history (and interesting that at this point of time the actual market cost of gold is once again at a record high).</p>
<p>Gold is pure, it is solid and dependable.It gives an up-lifting feeling. It adds richness and warmth, associated with the highest levels of everything, from commercial value to the athlete competing in sports for the gold medal. It is a dramatic and passionate colour, enhancing other rich shades around it, and often traditionally associated with royalty and leadership. It must also be remembered that gold can be associated with corruption, avarice, and greed… powerful things need careful handling, and an age of golden enlightenment to manage our natural wealth and abundance with wisdom, compassion and generosity.</p>
<p>It’s easy to think of gold as a single colour, but remember that as well as traditional yellow gold there are redder shades, as well as a white gold that is almost platinum in appearance. There is no skin-tone that cannot wear a shade of gold successfully. Just think traditional yellow gold is better with warm skin tones, pink golds and lighter tints of gold are more flattering if your skintone is cool.</p>
<p>So as we enter the dawn of this new age, we wish you golden light and a new sense of harmony, peace and creativity. We look forward to sharing more rainbows and colourful joy with you in 2013, and whatever and however you are celebrating these significant calendar events,let us all do so with brightness and love.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/257368
2012-11-27T06:40:14+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
In The Pink With Chocolate-coloured Comfort, on a Cold Winter’s Day
<p>Whilst there are very few colours that can’t be worn in some variant by every skin tone, the brown we refer to as chocolate has generally warm values. Don’t you find that just saying the word makes you feel very slightly warmer inside? Mmmm, chocolate! See..? Cooler skintones can wear pinker, chalkier shades of brown however, and just like the perfect selection box, there really is a colour to suit everyone.</p>
<div id="attachment_90" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 180px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/170px-cocoa_pods.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/170px-cocoa_pods.jpg?w=540" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cocoa pods on the tree. Look at all the different shades here!</p>
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<p>Of course chocolate itself can range from the darkest of shades of bitter, dark pure chocolate, which is actually darker in colour from the raw cacao nibs from which is it extracted, almost black in many lights. People with warm skintones can wear this shade instead of black as it is far more flattering against the face, having undertones of gold deep within it. And white chocolate at the opposite extreme is a warm creamy tint, white with a hint of vanilla or spice… all of which can be mixed and matched together with other hues in fashion or interiors for a sophisticated and subtle look.</p>
<p>More typically when we talk of chocolate brown as a colour we are referring to something that visually resembles milk chocolate, a slightly paler but still rich and warm colour. It’s the colour of the earth and as such wearing it,eating it or surrounding ourselves with brown helps us to connect with nature and all things natural,bringing a sense of security and stability. It’s a colour that seems to flow viscously and comfortingly, the way melting chocolate drips and flows elegantly to create the gorgeous confections I had to stop and buy when in London recently. The colour of a steaming cup of hot chocolate – the real-deal cuddle-in-a-cup cocoa-rich stuff, not the horrible adulterated ‘Cola Cao’ the kids drink here in Spain… as though chocolate needs sweetness adding!</p>
<p><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/chocolate-pink.jpeg?w=540" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" style="border:10px solid white;" /></p>
<p>In fact chocolate contains everything it needs already, it is complete and well rounded, no wonder it is regarded as a rediscovered superfood. The antioxidant activity of dark chocolate and cocoa powder is equivalent to or higher than that found in acai berry, blueberry, cranberry, and pomegranate – even though these are all gorgeous anti- aging colours too!</p>
<p>Because chocolate brown is a neutral shade and always classic it can be used as a basic foundation to build a unique look upon. Chocolate is a treat and as such you should have it how you want it! Chocolate brown is also a great colour for accessories, as it has a timelessness about it that transcends fashion, and goes with many different looks and styles – you can warm it up or cool it down to suit your natural colouring. Just think about how many different colours and embellishments a good chocolatier can use to create gorgeous confections and fillings.</p>
<p>My hot pink coat would make a delicious soft centre! Pink is un-conditional love, a feminine, affectionate colour and shares the soothing comfort factor of brown.</p>
<p>Fondant fruity fillings tend to be associated with the big tins we exchange at the up coming festive season, in their jewel-like individual wrappers. What will you wear using your adaptable browns as the backdrop for your yummy colours? Pass the tin over here, I’m going for the strawberry pink one !! What’s your favourite?</p>
<p>Stay in the pink and keep chocolatey and warm…</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/232880
2012-10-15T14:18:27+02:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Breaside School Enjoy the Rainbow Song
<p>The Rainbow Song is not only enjoyed by children who respond to the engaging and fun words and melody, teachers love it too. Why? Firstly, it teaches the colours of the rainbow in the right order, which is part of the Science national curriculum. I remember when we had to learn ‘Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain’, a song with a strong tune and easy rhymes is so much easier and a more natural way to learn. However as well as this, the Rainbow Song is welcomed by educators because it also teaches lots of Citizenship themes too… celebration of diversity, harmony and unity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Harvest Festival is the perfect time to celebrate these concepts, rich with the colours and bounty of the autumn, and a traditional time for schoolchildren to remember their wider community, and help those less fortunate than themselves with gifts of food and provisions.</p>
<p>We were privileged to attend the special Harvest Assembly at <a href="http://www.breaside.co.uk/" target="_blank">Braeside School</a> in Kent, where the Reception class had been rehearsing a special performance of the Rainbow Song for the rest of the school. All the children enjoyed singing along, getting involved in the music and the sharing of natures bounty and the joy of song in front of an audience… and if they were all learning useful facts and values along side then it happened naturally and happily,without getting in the way of the fun and laughter. The best possible kind of learning experience!</p>
<div id="attachment_82" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 550px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/ammended1.png"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/ammended1.png?w=540&h=165" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="165" width="540" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Braeside School Newsletter</p>
</div>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/211950
2012-09-10T13:42:40+02:00
2022-08-16T17:36:11+02:00
Back to School – so, what colours will help you learn best?
<p>In most of the classrooms of primary schools run by creative and involved teachers, we see a riot of colourful things on the walls. Sharing and displaying the arts and crafts created in school helps children learn to take pride in their work, to understand that artistry is within us all, and that everyone’s output is unique and special. And alongside the many treasures destined for the special art wall at home in due course, many classrooms also display colourful teaching resources – posters, charts and exhibitions, provided by publishers and specialist education companies to illustrate key learning themes and ideas in a visual and engaging way.</p>
<p><a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/pencils.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/pencils.jpg?w=192&h=144" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="144" style="margin:15px;" width="192" /></a></p>
<p>This cheerful and colourful background to our children’s learning environment is pretty and exciting, but does it help them to learn? We know that colour can affect us physically, mentally and emotionally so what role does colour actually play in learning and remembering new things?</p>
<p>Studies have found that the colour of the environment you study in can indeed have an impact on how well you learn – however the connection is not obvious or straightforward!</p>
<p>The scientists (in Canada) were testing to see how people’s memories and cognitive performance varied, depending on whether they saw red and blue. What they concluded was, if your learning depends on recall and attention to detail, you should do it in a red-coloured room… However, if creativity and imagination is required, then a blue-coloured room is more productive.</p>
<p>In our children’s schools the learning styles vary, but we hope that encouraging creativity and getting them to develop and use their powers of imagination is of primary importance for professionals working with these developing minds. So, perhaps classrooms should think about getting the blue paint out for an art project early in the term, and decorating the walls that way?</p>
<p>However, a certain amount of primary learning does involve memory and detail – learning of times tables, spellings, singing songs and so on – these tasks might be best tackled in a red corner!</p>
<p>Whilst these studies are all very interesting I think it’s important to take the age of the child into consideration. Lighter colours are gentler for children aged 10 or younger. Tints of colour (primary colours with white added) are more suitable to their softer vibrations. So think pastels.</p>
<p>Yellow is a good colour for stimulating the intellect and aiding concentration but a very strong yellow can be too over-powering for a younger child and may even cause disruption in the classroom. Creamy yellow and paler soft tints of gold are a better option until they mature.</p>
<p>A quick focus-group involving the limited number of primary school children in our home this weekend also identified that surely preference matters… “I’d like to learn in a violet classroom – because that’s my favourite!” Who can argue with that, and perhaps that’s a big part of where the teachers are coming from, when they plan classroom wall displays that celebrate every colour of the rainbow? Everyone’s favourite shades hopefully get reflected somewhere!</p>
<p>We know from writing Colour In My World and holding children’s colour parties that children often have stronger opinions than adults about the colours they choose to wear or be around, and even though they may not know or be able to say why they are drawn to certain hues, they very often choose the ones they need at that time and that complement their own personal colouring to express themselves.</p>
<p>My 4 year old grand-daughters though sometimes choose “interesting” colour combinations. They are just experimenting as with all forms of play so a little gentle guidance in the right direction will help them to have a better understanding of not only the nature of colours but how it relates to them as individuals. Because their fresh young minds are not hung-up on our silly grown-up ideas about fashion, taste and convention, they can come up with some pretty wild combinations, to express their ideas and feelings… part of the joy of spending time with young children is helping them to channel and develop their choices and delights.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/194639
2012-07-30T12:43:57+02:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Fifty Shades of Love?
<p>A certain colour has had a lot of popular airtime recently, even if the colour mentioned isn’t technically one at all, and in the book it’s simply play on words involving a name.</p>
<p><img src="//thegiddykipper.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/539723_10150975240828439_1942997576_n.jpg?w=127&h=179" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="179" width="127" />Grey comes in many shades, any paint manufacturer can beat erotic novels hands-down, and neutrals remain a popular choice for interiors as well as fashions. People with cool skintones can wear grey more successfully as a rule, at least close to the face – layering with warmer shades can work well if this reflects your underlying colouration, and often you can successfully mix prints and designs whilst maintaining a unified look, if the overall palate remains muted and consistent.</p>
<p>But when it comes to sensuality, grey is not the right colour association at all! Traditionally red is associated with strong feelings such as passion – but what colour do you associate with love?</p>
<p>A recent survey by Emily Gems colour therapists suggested that white was strongly associated with the purity of love, and yellow with the nurturing elements – perhaps focussing on a rather different interpretation of the word to that conjured up by E L James. Lavenders and lilacs are also sometimes associated with love because they suggest mystery, a focus on feelings and sensitivity rather than words and being literal. After all, who wants romantic fiction, to be too realistic? We read to escape from real life, but once we close the book on fantasy we find relationships come in many different shades and hues – and are all the richer for that.</p>
<p>When blue is associated with love, it is often negatively – we get the blues when our hearts are broken, when we are unlucky or unrequited in love. You can learn a lot from people’s colour associations, a person who’s first association with love is blue or black feelings has a very different outlook to someone in the first flush of romance who might see love, and indeed their whole world, as rosy pink.</p>
<p>But back in the real world, red wins hands down for associations with passion, just look at what happens to shop displays at Valentines day. Gentlemen please remember that red roses are romantic and beautiful and universally acceptable… but red lingerie is actually the most-returned colour in the industry, indicating that perhaps many women instinctively know which colours do and don’t suit them.</p>
<p><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/orange2520heart.gif?w=133&h=145" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="145" width="133" />Of course that’s assuming he even gets the size right – when it comes to men buying underwear, who knows what the outcome will be. Remember, in love, it’s the thought that counts.</p>
<p>So what colour is love for you? I think that if I had to choose one, I’d go for orange – a blend of the elemental colours of red and yellow, orange is exciting, intuitive, creative and above all else joyful. Sounds like the perfect relationship if you ask me!</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/184726
2012-06-29T11:50:54+02:00
2021-09-06T19:32:33+02:00
Dreaming about a new Rainbow Song for children
<p>I love hearing my twin granddaughters singing, and they know all about my love for colour – so of course they were proud to sing for me the new song they had learned at school. The Arthur Hamilton song ‘I Can Sing a Rainbow’ was written for the 1955 film Pete Kelly’s Blues, but made famous by Cilla Black in 1966… How strange to hear 21st century children singing these same words to their Yayah (Spanish word for Nana!), as this was the ‘rainbow song’ they had been taught at school.</p>
<p>But it’s all wrong! The idea of a rainbow song should surely be to help children learn about the wonderful intersection of science, sunlight and art that the rainbow truly is, the real spectrum created when the droplets of water split the sun’s white light into the shades we recognise: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo violet. Sorry Cilla, but pink isn’t really even a colour, it’s just a dilution of red! But this is the song our children and grandchildren are still being taught, because there is so little else out there. Teachers have told me they don’t even teach very young children about the rainbow any more, because they don’t have the tools they want to do it properly and accurately… how sad.</p>
<div id="attachment_52" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 253px">
<a href="http://colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/dsci0803.jpg"><img src="//colourswork.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/dsci0803.jpg?w=243&h=183" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="183" style="margin-left:5px;margin-right:5px;" width="243" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Lynda and the children recording the Rainbow Song</p>
</div>
<p>That was until I woke at 3 in the morning… no rainbows then just starlight, but the lyrics poured out of me in the darkness, almost complete in that single session. After that I could sleep again, because something inside had been released creatively, that had needed to find its own expression. By morning, the rhythm of the words had suggested their own tune, a new rainbow song that would teach children the correct order of the colours, and the glory of the rainbow world that they live in, celebrating every child of the new century in a meaningful and powerful song they can all join in.</p>
<p>What better way to test the reaction of the song than to sing it to my 4yr old granddaughters. They loved it and were soon joining in with ease. I couldn’t get the song out of my head and it played on a continual loop. Then the answer to my prayers came just a few days later. A chance meeting with Rich Sanford, a local musician led to us working together to get the song out into the world. Myself, Rich and a group of enthusiastic local children helped to polish the lyrics and sharpen the timing of the tune, and led to the recording and video you see below.</p>
<p>All the children involved in the song had so much fun, the words and music were so simple for them to pick up and enjoy, that learning a lesson about colours happened naturally and playfully whilst we all sang along!</p>
<p><span class="embed-youtube" style="text-align:center; display: block;"><iframe class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="540" height="334" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RvNprVe2-hQ?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent" frameborder="0"></iframe></span><br>
The recording of ‘The Rainbow Song’ © Lynda Smith of Colour In My World, is available to download <a title="buy Rainbow Song at itunes" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rainbow-song-peace-love-2012/id540445574" target="_blank">here</a> from iTunes, and as a special bonus for our blog readers, email your receipt to colourinmyworld@gmail.com and we’ll send you back a transcript of the lyrics for you to use in teaching or sharing the song with the special children in your life.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/171168
2012-05-22T08:56:09+02:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
All the Colours of the Rainbow
<p> </p>
<p>How many colours are there in a rainbow? Whatever the old children’s rhyme says about purple and pink, the colours usually regarded as visible in a prism, when white light is split into it’s component parts are Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo and Violet. Generations have learned this list using mnemonics such as ‘Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain’ and others, and that does describe the order of the visible light spectrum.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But in reality, the spectrum is just that, a continuum. Light within a certain range of wavelengths, our eyes tend to define as ‘red’, and then slightly shorter than that we perceive as ‘orange’, and so on. Each of us may draw this line slightly differently, and you could argue at length whether a colour is a reddish-orange or an orangey-red, but at some point we call a difference and it’s crossed a line into the next colour along. And the visible part we can see is only a tiny fraction of the electromagnetic spectrum as a whole, from long-wave radio at one end to extremely short wave gamma radiation at the other.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When we look at a rainbow under optimal weather and light conditions, you can sometimes see all the seven traditional colours, although its often hard to discern the difference between blue, indigo and violet – perhaps you can see there is blue and purple, just like in the song (though you won’t usually see pink anywhere, unless you get a beautiful sunset rainbow!). Often the red-orange end of the rainbow seems more vivid to us visually, but every rainbow is unique, and so is every eyeball that perceives it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The rainbow actually contains light of every shade, every raindrop refracts the light at a slightly different angle to your retina, so actually there are as many colours in the rainbow as there are drops of water in the sky! Now THAT would be something to write a song about</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/161402
2012-04-26T16:56:39+02:00
2021-07-30T20:30:41+02:00
Childrens Rainbow Poem
<p align="center"><strong>When the sun is shining brightly,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>And there are raindrops in the air,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Look carefully up into the sky,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>You might see a rainbow there.</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>If you clearly see one,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>It’s a gift from heaven above,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Carried by the light to you,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>On the Angel’s wings of love.</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>It will make you smile,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Fill your heart with joy,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Seven wondrous colours,</strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>For every girl and boy.</strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/155687
2012-04-08T15:37:33+02:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Seeing Red
<p>The whole area connecting colours with mood and behaviour can be difficult to measure effectively scientifically. Certainly the kind of quantative outputs that scientists like – measurable, repeatable effects – can be frustratingly thin on the ground… so many of the effects are subtle and subjective, and stem from a range of factors that include personal life experiences, individual skin tones, and varying environmental cues. A shade of blue that makes your natural colouring look radiantly fantastic will make you feel uplifted and empowered when you wear it, though the same shade on me might have no impact or even a negative one… so how can we measure the effect of the colours we see, on how we feel, in an objective way?</p>
<p>Some attempts have recently been made by the Department of Clinical and Social Sciences in Psychology, University of Rochester, New York, and extended and replicated by other researchers in France, to examine the effect of the colour red. Their experiments fascinatingly indicated that being shown the colour red made test participants’ muscles respond more strongly, in grip and pinch tests, and also the speed with which the muscles responded. </p>
<p>The experimental design was careful to equalise other factors (such as age and strength of participants) and isolate the specific impact of colour – red produced a measurably different response, compared to when participants were shown grey or blue stimulus which was adjusted to matched brightness and duration. The participants in each case were also unaware, and unable to guess, the purpose of the experiment they were taking part in.</p>
<p>So, why the interest in red, why would we respond differently to red compared to other hues?</p>
<p>For those of us in the developed world red has a number of cultural connotations associated with danger – red usually means a warning, to stop, or an alert of some kind. But the reasons our culture chose red for these symbols had to come from somewhere, and in nature we find that red also carries its own deeper significance: certainly for our well-being, seeing red might indicate bleeding, or fever, or externally it could be something dangerously hot to touch.</p>
<p>Successfully evolved higher/complex mammals (like us humans, believe it or not) are examples of good survival instincts. Those of us, in evolutionary terms, who survive long enough to breed, are those who are good at recognising and responding to danger. Therefore, natural signifiers of danger get encoded at the deep, reflexive levels, the basic way we respond to threats. Without even being consciously aware of it, science is now demonstrating, we respond to colour on an instinctive and automatic basis. This means we all need to be aware of colours in a functional way that goes beyond fashions and aesthetics, as well as perhaps being more open to those instinctive and inarticulate feelings about colours we are drawn to, or not.</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/141312
2012-02-18T17:00:02+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
I see my beautiful daughter, she wants to paint it black…
<p> </p>
<p>Why do so many teenagers, girls in particular, feel the need to pass through a phase of wearing and surrounding themselves in energy-sucking black?</p>
<p>True black is not a colour, it is in fact the absence of colour. As adolescence is a time of emotional upheaval and change, for some it may be about imposing order and fixedness, whilst they attempt to develop their own identity and style. Moving away from childlike things, and adults making decisions – including about what constitutes suitable clothing – black is easy to latch onto as ‘grown-up’ and rebellious… whilst ironically conforming to an amazingly consistent cross-cultural phase and developmental stage.</p>
<p>Of course for many it is a way of identifying with the goth or emo music scene, and emulating favoured stars. It’s also a way of conforming with a tribe, identifying with their peer group either real or virtual, whilst simultaneously distancing from the childhood they are struggling to shrug aside.</p>
<p>For some there is a perception that black equals adult, grown up and sexy – and for girls particularly (but not exclusively) there can be feelings about weight and body image. Black is good for hiding behind if you are insecure. It’s not an approachable colour either – wear it if you prefer to keep people at a distance.</p>
<p>There is also a perception that black is a slimming colour… this isn’t incorrect as such, but applies to any dark shade and is only one of a range of important factors involved in dressing successfully for your body shape.</p>
<p>The one truth about black is that it can completely drain the life out of most skin tones. Whilst nearly all of us have plenty of black items in our wardrobe, the one good thing is that – due to its utter neutrality – it can be worn with so many other colours. Choose something richer and more flattering on your upper body, at least close to your face, and you can still get away with wearing your black clothing whatever your colour group. Just maybe next time you are shopping, it’s time to let the inner adolescent leave your system at last, and choose something that truly resonates with you, gives you a lift and goes with your personal colouring.</p>
<p> </p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/137252
2012-01-26T07:41:53+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
CHILDS PLAY – a great way to discover your best colours.
<p>Our skin tone, eye and hair colour each have their own under- tones which make up our personal colouring.</p>
<p>Whatever your age, there are various palettes of colour to help everyone feel their best and suit their colouring.</p>
<p>Children love anything to do with colour. So whether you’re a parent/grand-parent or guardian, why not delight the child in your life and play a colour test game with them.</p>
<p>This game is great for forming a bond with a child & encouraging self-esteem.</p>
<p><strong>Here’s what to do.</strong></p>
<p>1) Wear something plain, maybe a white t shirt, so as not to get distracted by too much colour.</p>
<p>2) Gather a variety of colourful items together from around the house like clothing, scarves, pillow cases, towels, material or anything colourful that isn’t too big. Include different shades of the same colour e.g. orange red & raspberry red.</p>
<p>3) Have a mirror to see the effects of different colours. A magnifying glass if you want to see the patterns & subtle colours in the iris. A table close to hand.</p>
<p> You are going to compare the effects of different colours on your own colouring & the child’s. Some good comparisons are pink/orange, blue/brown, white/cream. Also try to compare different greens & reds, pastel colours, earthy colours & clear strong colours.</p>
<p>It is better to do the colour test in natural daylight. Near to a window if possible is best.</p>
<p>Now you are ready to begin. This is going to be fun!</p>
<p>Place a coloured item under the chin & across the chest.</p>
<p>Look in the mirror & ask these questions.</p>
<p>1) Do I look healthier in this colour?</p>
<p>2) Does the colour light up my face?</p>
<p>3) Do I feel good in this colour?</p>
<p>If the answer was yes, put the item on your “best colours” pile. If it was no, put it on the other pile.</p>
<p> Go through all of the colours until you finish with two piles. Remember that you might like a colour but it doesn’t always mean it will suit you & vice versa.</p>
<p>Now look at the colours you have in your “best colours” pile. These colours should now represent a colour palette most suited to harmonise perfectly & naturally with your own/child’s colouring.</p>
<p>The good news is you’ll already own a good percentage of clothes in your right colours and it’s the colours close up to your face that really count. This fun colour test will likely save you time & money for years to come. Lots of lovely complements too !!</p>
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Colour in My World
tag:colourinmyworld.com,2005:Post/137253
2011-12-10T11:53:21+01:00
2017-01-13T14:39:29+01:00
Like Mum ? Like Dad ? Twins colouring ?
<p>When I saw my beautiful twin grand-daughters the day they were born, it was clear they didn’t share the same colouring.</p>
<p>The hospital staff had put a pink hat on one twin and a peach hat on the other twin.”Nothing wrong with that” you might say, but I switched the hats. Straight away I could see the difference. The coloured hats now enhanced their complexions, when I pointed it out, others could see it too.</p>
<p>One twin has cool based colouring like her Mum and suited the pink hat. The other twin has warm colouring like her Dad and suited the peach hat.</p>
<p>This just goes to show that even at a very early age we look better in some colours than others.</p>
<p>Have a colourful day!</p>
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Colour in My World