Colourful Language Eleanor Maclure 2012 MA GRAPHIC DESIGN MAJOR PROJECT VISUAL RESEARCH
Transcript
ColourfulLanguage
Eleanor Maclure 2012
MA GrAphic DesiGn
MAjor project VisuAl reseArch
Using Google Image Search to explore the visual relationships between colour terms
LookingforHue
lookinG for hue Visual Research Presentation
Introduction
We all use colour terms to describe things in everyday life, but how well do we use these terms? How consistent and precise are we when it comes to defining what is claret, wine, maroon or burgundy? Would we feel confident asserting that something was beige rather than taupe? Do we know the difference between lilac and lavender? Is there even a difference?
lookinG for hue Visual Research Presentation
Building on the methods used to create ‘Searching for the Rainbow’, this project continues the process of using Google Image search as a tool to produce visual interpretations of colour terms.
I have extended the process by broadening the search to commonly known, but less widely used colour terms. The colour names were used as search terms in Google and the first thirty images from the results are presented here in an unaltered state. The colour terms have been arranged by hue, so it is possible to compare the results of different searches or similarly coloured images.
Process
lookinG for hue Visual Research Presentation
Google Image search has allowed me to capture an impression of colour across a medium, which is still relatively democratic and where content is less mediated and regulated. The results of each search add to the collective understanding of what a colour term represents and it is possible for anyone and everyone, through their own contributions to the internet, to influence that understanding in some way.
Results
lookinG for hue Visual Research Presentation
The outcome of a Google Image search may not provide a conclusive answer, but as the results show, colour is rarely, if ever, definitive. Everyone’s idea of what a particular colour is, may equate to many subtly different shades. However, in all but a few cases, notably puce, there is some degree of colour consistency across the search results. This methodology has produced a body of images that are a reflection of how colour terms are often used or understood: sometimes it’s all a bit vague.