History of colour with Francesca Herrick

Interior Design

Ref: K1D13604

Location: London
£200
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About this course

Explore how tastes and palettes have evolved over time and learn how to make your own natural dyes.

Course Description

Colour is a topic that links interior design with science and wider cultural developments, such as art and fashion. In this session we will investigate the unusual origins of historical colours and reflect on the merits of returning to organic options for contemporary design needs. We will look at changing tastes and the factors behind major shifts, from the pretty pastels of Neoclassicism to the daring primaries of the Regency era. We will cover pivotal moments in the evolution of colour theory and psychology in order to think about the value of colour for health and wellbeing.

Afternoon session:

Make and take: natural dyes

Following an inspirational showroom visit in the Design Centre, we will experiment with natural, home-made dyes to create different colourful effects. Experience how common food-stuffs such as beetroot and turmeric provide vivid colours with no negative consequences for us or the environment.

Participants are welcome to bring a small cotton item to dye (e.g. a t-shirt or cushion cover). Alternatively, KLC cotton tote bags and cotton test squares will be provided. Please bring washing-up gloves and an apron. Dyes will stain!

Who should attend:

Students and professionals seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the history and use of colour

Anyone interested in the use of colour in interior design.

Topics covered:

Showroom visits

Experimenting with natural dyes

Dyes from common foodstuffs.

Course outcomes:

An overview of how colour has been used in interiors over the past 400 years

Insights into colour theory and Psychology

Appreciation of the global origins of historical colours

Ideas for using natural and sustainable colours

Tips on growing a dye garden.

This one day course is part of our interior design history series.

Timetable

This course takes place in London.

9.30am arrival on the day.

Teaching hours 10.00am - 4.00pm

Course Materials

What students need to bring

  • Participants are welcome to bring a small cotton item to dye (e.g. a t-shirt or cushion cover). Alternatively, KLC cotton tote bags and cotton test squares will be provided. Please bring washing-up gloves and an apron. Dyes will stain!

Additional information

Breakfast refreshments and a light lunch will be provided on the first day. While a vegetarian option is made available, we are unable to cater to specific food intolerances or food allergies.

Tutors

Francesca Herrick

Francesca Herrick is the module leader in Historical and Critical studies at the KLC School of Design.

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