“Black and white are absolute…expressing the most delicate vibration, the most profound tranquility, and unlimited profundity.” — Shiko Munakata.
Benjamin Moore color experts have deemed a white as the 2016 Color of the Year, OC-117 ‘Simply White’, to be exact. My younger self would be appalled, as I’ve always navigated in heavily saturated tones, but now, to my complete surprise, I’m undeniably drawn to whites, off-whites, and cream whites. What’s changed? Personally, I’d have to point to the presence of chaos in recent life events, more stressful obligations, and my absolute disdain for turmoil, aggrevation, and discord. I don’t like to argue, like I used to. I don’t like to live in clutter, like I used to. I don’t mind complete silence, which I used to avoid.
I’ve gone white.
Color psychologists argue that the color white evokes peacefulness and is reminiscent of goodness. It’s clean, quiet, and airy in interior environments and has been shown to aid in mental clarity. In my own practice, I’ve seen it used widely with clients that are embarking on a new beginning or significant life change after loss, sadness, chaos. In Chinese culture and Medieval Europe, white is the color of mourning, unlike black in Western culture.
And let’s not forget the significance of raising the white flag. Known as a universal sign of truce, I would argue that, for a multitude of horrific reasons, humanity may be craving more peace.
Thank goodness for the color of white. Bring it on.
BB
