Blue in Media and Design

When I haven’t any blue I use red.
~Pablo Picasso

The effects of the color blue has an impact on many areas of life, including clothing choices, language and cliches, interior design, art, religion and health.

The cooling and relaxing qualities of blue, remind us of the peace and calmness of night. Clear blue is uplifting, while midnight night blue has a sedative effect that promotes meditation and intuition.

Blue is a very popular color, blue skies and blue water are full of positive meaning in every culture. We are, after all, living on the “blue planet.”

However, the color blue also has some negative associations due to the connection between lack of oxygen and blue skin color. It’s also true that too much dark blue can be depressing.

Despite the color’s gloomy connotations, research suggests that exposure to blue light can increase confidence and boost happiness levels.  When researchers exposed a group of volunteers to a range of colors and lights. They found that blue and green made male subjects feel happier, while blue, purple and orange did the same for women.

Blue and Interior Decor

Light and soft blue can alleviate insomnia and are good choices for bedrooms. Royal blue is appropriate for dining rooms and living rooms. Combinations of blue and yellow are often used in kitchens. Blue is also a natural choice for bathrooms due to the color symbolism association with water. Dark blue can be used successfully for meditation rooms.

Predominantly blue paintings are usually calm and refreshing. Artworks depicting rivers, waterfalls and the ocean often emphasize blue. Landscapes featuring large blue skies are also good options for introducing blue into your environment.

Most design motifs associated with blue are smooth, flowing patterns. Blue tends to be connected to asymmetrical, free form and curved images such as waves or meandering streams. Art featuring blue has almost universal appeal and is a good choice for gifts as well as personal use.

Note: This post was compiled by Shirley Twofeathers for Color Therapy, you may repost and share without karmic repercussions, but only if you give me credit and a link back to this website. Blessed be.