In the Coexistence edition of Viewpoint Colour, we consider our place on the planet – and question why we consistently try to put ourselves first, dominating and damaging other species and the Earth itself. How can we establish a harmonious coexistence with the other myriad species within the biosphere? We are only just beginning to understand the amazing complexity and subtlety of the connections that link all forms of life.
Coexisting in harmony requires us to step aside from our self-appointed dominant position, realise we are just one species among many, and re-establish the respect for nature and deep connection with the natural world that still exist among Indigenous peoples. In this issue, we pick up again on the positive inspiration towards biocentric design we offered in Viewpoint Colour 09, the Spirit of Nature issue. We highlight designers, creatives, writers, thinkers and activists who are encouraging us towards a new mindset and a new visualisation of how life on Earth could be. They emphasise the beauty and power of nature’s own patterns and systems and networks, which we should seek to support, rather than subvert or destroy.
Colour is part of that beauty, and for this edition we cement the fresh approach to colour forecasting that we have previously explored, moving away from fast-moving, trend-led changes towards a more considered, slower ethos that considers longevity and endurance, and a gradual evolution.
We have sought for centuries to dominate the biosphere, and now the biosphere is showing us, very clearly, that we need to reconsider our position within it.
Michael James Fox’s abstract, blurred images of flowers offer a subtle take on psychedelia. Abstracted and dreamlike, these images evoke an altered state of mind, with none of the harshness of the acid hues more often associated with psychedelics.
Images by A New Specimen draw on the concept of the aura: the spiritual emanation that is supposed to surround all living beings, and represents their individual essences.
The beautiful ambivalence of the enigmatic, fluid forms in Emma Larsson’s artworks could suggest any or many of the planet’s species: mammal, fish, reptile, bird, plant, insect, fungus?
Not necessarily aimed at those in the art or technology worlds, Tin&Ed’s public installations thrive on an incidental audience, inviting onlookers to stop, engage, experience, and eventually rethink their relationships with nature.
We have sought for centuries to dominate the biosphere, and now the biosphere is showing us, very clearly, that we need to reconsider our position within it.
In our forecast for autumn/winter 2022/23, we summarise the key colour themes that have been highlighted throughout this issue’s visual essays. We believe that colour trends must slow down in response to biocentric agendas and this forecast aims to promote slowly evolving cycles that consider colour longevity and endurance.
