Art Study - "Gods in Color"
I’ve been studying color theory for over a decade. Color theory explains how humans perceive and use color, focusing on concepts such as how colors interact with each other, how colors communicate messages, and all kinds of other amazing concepts I’ll write about someday.
I recently came across a fascinating virtual art exhibit dealing with color theory. “Gods in Color” explores the phenomenon of ancient Greek and Roman statues being painted in vivid color - conflicting with our established understanding of ancient art.
“We imagine ancient statues and buildings as marble white. We’ve grown comfortable with this image - but it is incorrect.”
This revision to art history has significant meaning, challenging the reality we’ve come to know. The virtual exhibit was covered in a comprehensive article by The New Yorker, one that examines the social, moral, and political facets of the phenomenon.
The Myth of Whiteness in Classical Sculpture
“Greek and Roman statues were often painted, but assumptions about race and aesthetics have suppressed this truth. Now scholars are making a color correction.”
This exhibit is a fascinating inquiry into the historical concept of color theory. As we continue to navigate a highly politicized society, I am mesmerized by the use of color to transmit messages. I thoroughly enjoyed researching this subject, perhaps you will, too.
