ABSTRACT
Color, Chapter 6, is the most powerful tool designers have to communicate emotional and psychological nuance in lighting, making us feel and think, and influencing us personally and culturally. Emphasizing the science of color enables designers to explore, use, and, ultimately, capture the power of color. When we see color, we are actually experiencing wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation perceived by our photoreceptors, the rods and cones in our retinas. Using additive and subtractive color theories, primary and secondary colors allow designers to create a full range of color through lighting gels. Ms. Scott demonstrates her use of color in Artifice, Section Four (15:33–17:52), when the ensemble rejoins Mother Earth, who gives birth to a small tree.
Further Reflections are by James E. Streeter, lighting designer at Frist Theatre, Princeton University. Mr. Streeter spotlights his listening to the choreographer, and the scenic and costume designers, to understand how color can support the intention of the dance. He reminds young designers that color is the easiest aspect of lighting to change if not working quite right, and to be open to such discoveries along the way.
