Emotion in the Colours - Essay Example

?Emotion in the colours Introduction Colours evoke various feelings and emotions. It can evoke feelings of happiness, sadness, joy, romance, mourning, and even anger. It can express succinctly what one is feeling without the need for words or expressions. Colours can also have specific and personal meanings to different people, and for different countries, colours usually have their meanings and their history. This paper will now discuss in detail about how people in different countries express emotions using different colours and how this expression changes at different points in time. It will first describe the emotions and feelings conveyed by the colours, and then relate these to the different countries. Specific countries will be included in this paper with discussions on their colours, the meanings behind these colours and how they use it to convey their emotions and feelings. This paper is being carried out in order to establish a specific and engaging knowledge of colours, culture, and the emotions which most people often express in colours. With a better understanding of these colours and emotions, a cross-cultural understanding of other countries, races, and ethnicities may be made possible. Body According to experts and scientists, the actual physical world has no colour; instead, there are light waves which travel in space and varying wave lengths are perceived and interpreted by our eyes (Sable and Ackay, 2011). The retina cover of our eyes then delineates and interprets the light which creates the myriad colours in the world surrounding us. The eye is a complicated receptor of stimulus; and the retina works around complicated combinations in order to create the different colours which we actually see (Sable and Ackay, 2011). The human eyes can actually see about 7 million colours and people are already born with the ability to see and interpret these colours (Sable and Ackay, 2011). There are different explanations relating to individual responses to colours and human behaviour. Some of these schools of thought include the fact that colour has either and an innate or a learned origin (Hardin and Maffi, 1997). Under the innate origin school of thought, preferences in colour are learned over time as shared meanings from experiences; they may also be a conscious understanding of language and other cultural elements (Hardin and Maffi, 1997). Others argue that differences in colour interpretations are based on the difference in residual philosophical and religious interpretations, not so much on innate interpretations of colours (Hardin and Maffi, 1997). Some demographic elements, including age, sex, as well as ethnicity, are also relevant factors in the interpretation of colour. Undeniably, people’s responses to colour are learned. Most of the learning is based on different variables. Demographic variables such as age, gender, and ethnicity impact on the interpretation of colour (Komarova and Jameson, 2008). Various studies have indicated differences in colour perception among individuals coming from varying geographical heritage, economic status, or sunlight exposure. These elements may sometimes explain better the colour preferences of individuals coming from specific environments and culture (Komarova and Jameson, 2008). In further expounding on the above points, it can be proposed that in some places where sunlight shines extremely bright, “colours and contrasts decline in intensity. Consequently, people living closer to the equator have a more highly developed vision (a larger number of efficient rods in the retina)” (Sable and Ackay, 2011, p. 951). Studies have already indicated that individuals living near the equator have more yellow intraocular pigmentation in their eyes, which then leads to decreases in colour discrimination or a decrease in the perception of the colour blue. Those in the northern regions, where the light is not directly reflected to them, they are said to have more refined colour perceptions (Sable and Ackay, 2011). This would indicate how basic physical disparities can help provide explanations on how varying chromatic stimulations can impact on how colour is seen; these elements can then help provide marketers with the applicable advertising tools they can use in order to gain the leverage they most need for their company and their products (Keegan and Green, 2011). Various studies have also evaluated the preferences of colours among different cultures and countries (Kay and Regier, 2003). Results have indicated that people from different cultures often utilise colours in order to express their feelings and emotions (Keegan and Green, 2011). In terms of semantic differential scales, in measuring likings in colours, significant colour associations for each country have emerged (Jacobs, et.al., 1991). In general, among 5 out of 8 states, it is the most liked colour and the second most liked colour in the three other states (Sable and Ackay, 2011). This may be the reason why blue is often used as a marketing colour in corporations in America, mostly in company logos, brands, and packaging (Kay and Regier, 2003). For marketers, most of them have come to understand how colours mean different things for varying cultures (Kuehni, 2001). White is a colour which is associated with death and mourning in East Asia, however in Australia, New Zealand and the US, it is associated with happiness and purity (Sable and Ackay, 2011). As was mentioned above, blue is the corporate colour of the US. In East Asia, blue is seen as a cold and evil colour; however, in the Netherlands, it represents warmth (Sable and Ackay, 2011). In Sweden, the colour represents coldness; in Iran, death, and in India, purity (Sable and Ackay, 2011). In Belgium and the Netherlands, the blue colour represents femininity. In Sweden and the US, it is associated with masculinity (Sable and Ackay, 2011). The colour green is often interpreted as danger and disease in Malaysia. For Belgium they believe it conveys envy and jealousy (Madden, et.al., 2000). In Japan however, it is perceived as love and happiness; and for China, it represents sincerity and dependability (Madden, et.al., 2000). Red is considered an unlucky colour in Nigeria and Germany; however it is a colour of luck in China, Denmark, and Argentina (Sable and Ackay, 2011). In India, it is associated with ambition and desire. Red means love for China, Korea, and Japan (Sable and Ackay, 2011). In the USA, yellow is taken to mean warmth. In France, however, it is considered the colour of infidelity (Sable and Ackay, 2011). It means jealousy in Russia and yet it connotes happiness and royalty in China. Brazil perceives yellow as a symbolism for despair and sorrow (Ogden, et.al., 2010). Purple in China and South Korea is interpreted as love; in Mexico, it is the colour of sin, and in Japan, of fear (Ogden, et.al., 2010). Specific associations for various colours shall now be evaluated according to particular countries. One major association between colours and feelings would be China and their strong association with the colour red (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). China Red is considered the country’s eternal theme and for the rest of the world, people have understood this to be the colour of the country. The Chinese knots are an ancient kind of weaving and the Chinese have long been using these knots dating as far back as the Han dynasty (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). The Chinese are still very much engaged in these traditional red knots. Knots mean reunion, warmth, and marriage and the red knot is therefore association with reunion, harmony, and love. The red lantern is also associated well to the Chinese people. It is seen during their New Year and their festivals decorating their houses and business establishments (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). Lanterns represent the Chinese culture and the red lanterns represent brightness and happiness (Qiang, 2011). They also believe that these lanterns would drive away evil spirits and bring good luck (Qiang, 2011). The colour red is also seen in the cheongsam or the high-necked dresses which they often wear. These dresses are buttoned on the right side, are loose at the chest, fitted at the waist and are slit up from the sides. These dresses are meant to highlight the beauty of the female body (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). Red Cheongsams are traditional garments for Chinese women; and although these are not worn daily, they are often collected by Chinese women because it represents the Chinese culture. For which reason, brides in China prefer this red Cheongsam over the traditional white wedding dress preferred by Westerners and other Asian countries (Fu, 2005). China’s use of the colour red is also associated with the red spring couplet which is seen in Chinese New Year’s celebrations. As such, during the Chinese New Year, these couplets often decorate the gates and doorframes of Chinese families (Fu, 2005). These couplets contain poetic sentences which indicate their hopes for the incoming year. Aside from these couplets, in their paper-cut art, the colour red also features prominently (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). These red paper-cut arts also refer to luck and happiness. Red firecrackers are also popular during their New Year celebrations. These red firecrackers are meant to ward off evil spirits, ghosts, as well as bad luck (Hu, 2005). During the Chinese New Year, red envelopes are also often given out and passed on from older to younger family members (Hu, 2005). These red envelopes contain money and this tradition is akin to the Western tradition of Santa going down the chimney to leave presents in children’s stockings. The colour red, aside from bringing good luck and happiness is also used to protect children from bad spirits. And for children seeing money inside the red envelopes, they learn to associate red with money and with good luck (Hu, 2005). As was mentioned, the colour red features many times during their New Year. In contrast to the colour white, common among westerners, the colour red is seen in Chinese weddings as a means of wishing happiness and luck to the couple (Li, 2010). The colour red is very much apparent in Chinese weddings. Red candles are often seen everywhere, including red invitation cards. New beds and bed sheets also feature the colour red (Li, 2010). The couple often walks down a red carpet sprinkled with red flowers. Based on the above associations to their culture, it is no wonder how the colour red is richly and strongly associated with the country (China Odyssey Tours, 2011). It evokes favourable emotions from the Chinese people, and these emotions are often true in the contemporary Chinese context. As for Japan, their traditional colours are founded on the Twelve Level Cap and Rank System which was set in 603 by their Prince Shotoku and influenced by Chinese elements (Tofugu, 2012). Under this system, the rank and social hierarchy were featured prominently by specific colours. These colours are considered the forbidden colours and are specifically used only for the robes of the ranking government officials (Tofugu, 2012). The colour Otan (yellow-red-brown) was used for the robes of the kuge and the lower ranks were not allowed to use such colour. Permissible colours or the yurushiiro could be used by the commoners (Tofugu, 2012). These colours were mostly associated with plants, flowers, and animals. Dyeing processes were applied by the Asuka period; other colours were developed during the Meiji period when they had more materials and synthetic dyes to apply (Tofugu, 2012). The colours of the country are very much associated with their language and culture. Their earliest history already mention the four oldest colours – aka (red), kuro (black), shiro(white), and ao (blue) (Tofugu, 2012). These terms are also referred, based on the changing optical sensations apparent in the light, dark, the clear, as well as the vague. In effect, since aka originally refers to light, then, naturally, Japan would use red to represent their sun (Tofugu, 2012). They would not use yellow or orange as is often seen in other cultures. With the passage of time, the ancient colour terms changed and are now accepted to refer to colours like red, black, white, and blue (Tofugu, 2012). Many of the proverbs however still use the four original colours. With the development of their society, their perceptions of region, social class, and job specialization have also manifested major developments. Various cultures have often attached meanings to colours, and this practice is same for Japan (Tofugu, 2012). Red has been associated with wealth, as can be seen in the red-sheath of their samurai swords and their ornamental combs. This colour is also associated with religion as seen in the red torii of their Shinto shrines; their shrine maidens are also in red (Tofugu, 2012). White is perceived as the godly and pure colour, hence their sacred sites are decorated in white pebbles or white sand. Black symbolizes dignity and formality and is therefore seen among their Buddhist monks in their robes (Tofugu, 2012). Blue does not have religious connotations for Japan, however, it is a colour associated with ceramics, porcelain, and fine art. Blue also became the basis for the indigo dyeing industry which was very successful during the Edo period (Tofugu, 2012). These colours evoke meaning and emotions for Japan, and these colours are often linked with their history as a people as well as their cultures and traditions. The United States as was mentioned above has various interpretations for the use of certain colours. The colours red, white, and blue as displayed in the United States flag evoke much feeling among Americans and these meanings are not significantly unlike the actual intended meanings by the makers of the flag (US Flag Supply, 2005). The United States has set the US flag to have thirteen stripes and to contain 13 stars (originally). White was associated with purity and innocence, red with valour, and blue with perseverance and justice (US Flag Supply, 2005). These colours often evoke feelings of loyalty among the Americans, especially when displayed in their American flag. The perception of other colours cannot be particularly focused in the United States considering that it is a melting pot of cultures and symbolisms (US Flag Supply, 2005). Since Asians, Europeans, and other countries and cultures are seen in the US, the specific emotions attached to these colours may be different from each other. Nevertheless, colours do evoke feelings among different people because of the history or the experiences which may be associated with them (US Flag Supply, 2005). Regardless of their current location, possibly in the US or elsewhere, the Chinese for example still use the red colour proudly and prominently, especially during their festivals. The same is true among the Japanese people who may be staying in the US or outside their home country (US Flag Supply, 2005). For which reason, some people from different cultures may still gravitate towards certain colours, regardless of their location, because of the meaning they associate with it. In effect, if they believe and perceive a colour unfavourable, and if they perceive other colours as favourable, they may use these to convey their favourable and happy emotions (Robertson, et.al., 2005). As such, the link between colours and emotions are strong. The colours of Germany would also be discussed in this paper. Germany has a tricolor band and these colours (black, red, and gold) have first been popular during the 1848 Revolution (Famous Wonders, 2011). These colours have traditionally been associated with freedom and unity. Freedom has always been a major issue for this country and this freedom has been endangered at various points in their history. The origins of the colour have dated back to the war they fought against Napoleon when their troops were using varying colours (Famous Wonders, 2011). As a means of identifying these soldiers, the standard colour of black with gold buttons, and red logos or image designs was adopted. These colours soon evoked feelings of patriotism and unity (Schulze, et.al., 2001). Since then, the German flag has been recognized in their constitution and has been known to evoke feelings of uniqueness among their people. Their flag is considered rich in their history; and the colours of red, gold, and black represent the freedom which many men and women have sought to achieve for their country (Schulze, et.al., 2001). It somehow represents their will to live and their pride. At present, the colours evoked by their flag translate to feelings of pride, pride in their history and in what they have achieved as a country. Even with the World War II blight in their history, the noble emotions evoked by their colours are still very much alive because these colours and these representations have dated back to before the Second World War when they have also nobly fought for their freedom and values (Schulze, et.al., 2001). For Kenya, the colours black, red, white, and green figure prominently, especially in relation to the Kenya African Union. The colour black has been associates with the majority people, and the colour red has basically symbolized the blood which was shed by the people as they sought their independence (Famous Wonders, 2012). Green, on the other hand represented their lands. Originally, the colour white was not a part of their colours as a nation, however, it was soon included as a representation of peace (Famous Wonders, 2012). The people of Kenya have had a significant history with colonizers, and their colours and symbols were forged based on such history. The shield which represents power and protection is red and the middle colour of the tricolour band is also red (Famous Wonders, 2012). This evokes the instinct of the people to protect their country and their lands. In looking at the colours and in understanding the representation of the colours, it is easy to understand what the people of Kenya are protecting and the values they have attached to these colours (Elkins, 2005). These colours also evoke pride and serenity among their people because they know the price which has been paid and the blood which has been shed to gain their country’s independence and nationhood. The green colour also evokes meanings associated with their lands (Elkins, 2005). These lands have been subject to years of colonial rule and their control over these lands as overlaid by their shield and spears evokes feelings of passion among the Kenyans. In the current generation, the colours still more or less evoke these same emotions among the Kenyans, however, the degree of passion has been reduced (Elkins, 2005). The current generation has not been subjected to the difficulties which their predecessors have borne, and as such the impact of the colours is not as significant (Mwaura, 2005). Nevertheless, feelings of pride are still evoked by the tricolour band, mostly because the people recognize that their freedom and their current nationhood are founded on the sacrifices of their fathers and other predecessors (Mwaura, 2005). In Uganda, the colours black, yellow, and red in alternating horizontal bands also evoke meaning to the Ugandan people. The three colours stand for their aspirations with their colours distinctly labelled with their symbolisms (Famous Wonders, 2010). The black represents their African black, the yellow refers to the sunshine in their continent, and the red, very much in the same light as Kenya represents the blood which was shed by their country for the sake of their freedom (Famous Wonders, 2010). In addition, the red is also representative of their fraternity. The African countries have gone through a long history of colonial rule under the British Empire and other colonizers (Znamierowski, 2001). Blood has been shed by the people of Africa during their years of colonization as they sought for their freedom and independence. The colour red features prominently in most, if not all countries of Africa (Znamierowski, 2001). Red has always commonly represented the blood of their people and to date, they have understood and respected the symbolism of this colour because of their bloody and tumultuous history. Even beyond the years of colonialism, this colour has represented blood which has been shed by the African people (Znamierowski, 2001). Bloodshed has not been stopped by the end of the colonial years; as among the different tribes and the different countries of Africa, such bloodshed has been very much apparent in their domestic wars, civilian versus government skirmishes, and their struggle for limited resources (Znamierowski, 2001). In fact, in their UNIA flag (Universal Negro Improvement Association), the colour red was also chosen as a colour because it represents “the noble blood that unites all people of African ancestry” (Taylor, 2006, p. 7). The colour black is also the colour which most African countries associate with the colour of their skin (Znamierowski, 2001). For the African people, they acknowledge that black represents their race and it is a colour which they acknowledge and proudly display in their flags. The green colour is also a common representation of their environment. Although various parts of Africa have been ravaged by desertification, many parts are still lush and green (Mwaura, 2005). Moreover, most of them point out that without the ravages of colonization, their lands would still be very much rich and lush. As such, years of environmental destruction have significantly impacted on their lands and their forests (Mwaura, 2005). Nevertheless, the African continent is still home to diverse flora and fauna which can be found nowhere else on earth, still ensuring the validity of its claims on environmental sustainability. In Asia, specifically Malaysia, the emotions evoked by their colours also make for a very interesting discussion (Vexillology Matters, 2012). First and foremost, the design of the Malaysian flag was based on the US flag, with its tri-colour stripes of red, white, and blue. These colours have special meaning to the people of Malaysia. Their white colour evokes feelings of peace and honesty and their red colour, in relation to the African people represents a comparatively less tumultuous symbolism (Vexillology Matters, 2012). Red evokes their bravery and valour as a people. The colour blue also stands for their vigilance and loyalty as well as their unity as a people. They are a federation, and the blue serves as the binding colour for all their territories (Vexillology Matters, 2012). The colour yellow represents their royal family. This colour yellow is representative of the noble blood which is a distinctive quality of the country. In contemporary times, these colours have more or less retained their symbolisms (Vexillology Matters, 2012). Unlike their African counterparts, their history has not been bound in significant bloodshed, but their colours are still special representations of their history and their values as a people (Vexillology Matters, 2012). In considering the colour yellow, the Philippines has had a significant history and associated emotion with this colour as well. It was the colour preferred by Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. during the Martial Law era under then President Ferdinand Marcos (Litonjua, 2006). When the senator was set to return to the Philippines after years of exile, his supporters tied yellow ribbons on the streets of Manila. He was however, assassinated while disembarking the Manila International airport (Litonjua, 2006). His assassination caused a series of events which culminated in the 1986 People Power Revolution which then overthrew President Marcos and installed Aquino’s widow Corazon Aquino as president (Litonjua, 2006). In effect, the colour yellow became symbolic of the anti-Marcos movement and was also adopted by Corazon Aquino as her preferred colour. During her presidency, she often wore this colour and the Filipino people very much associated this colour with her (Webel and Galtung, 2007). In so many ways, the colour represented their freedom from almost 20 years of dictatorial rule under President Marcos (Webel and Galtung, 2007). In the years after Aquino’s term ended, the colour yellow did not have as much meaning to the people, however during her years battling colon cancer, the people once again showed their support by tying yellow ribbons on the streets of Manila (Robles, 2012). After her death, yellow ribbons once more featured prominently in the streets. Instead of wearing the colour black for mourning, the people wore yellow shirts; yellow ribbons were also posted in social networking sites in acknowledgment of her passing (Robles, 2012). The colour yellow was also adopted by her son Benigno Aquino, Jr. when he ran for President during the 2010 elections (Robles, 2012). Ten years under the leadership of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo represented years of alleged corruption. The people were once again clamouring for a new era of honest governance. Their loyalty to the late senator Benigno Aquino and President Corazon Aquino was transferred to their son and the colour yellow once again featured prominently in Benigno Aquino, Jr.’s presidential bid (Robles, 2012). It became the colour of the masses and soon enough, through a landslide victory, the masses installed Benigno Aquino, Jr. as their next president. In its original context, the colour yellow has inspired the feelings of the Filipino people in relation to their desire to break out of the dictatorial regime of Marcos (Robles, 2012). They associated the colour with a person and with their freedom from dictatorship. In the more contemporary context, the colour represented a similar battle – against corruption, which they also associated with a specific person. As such, the colour has also become known to the Filipinos as the colour of the Aquino family (Robles, 2012). Moreover, in support of the freedom fought during the People Power Revolution, this colour has since evoked feelings of freedom and nationalism among the Filipinos, as well as feelings of affection for a much-loved family (Robles, 2012). In Russia, the meanings and emotions evoked by several colours have changed throughout their history. During ancient times Russia, there were three colours which had significant meaning – white, which meant nobility and sincerity, blue, which stood for truthfulness and purity, and red which represented love and bravery (Weeks, 2012). These colours do not quite have the same representation in the current Russian context. While white still means nobility, it now also represents frankness; moreover, blue is now associated more with loyalty and honesty, which has some similarity to the original meanings (Weeks, 2012). Red was still associated with love, however it also meant generosity and self-sacrifice. During the 19th century, these same colours evoked different feelings among the people. White represented liberty and their independence and the blue stood for God Mother, and the red was associated with their sovereignty (Weeks, 2012). These symbolisms also related to an expanding and powerful Russian Empire which tried to exert its sovereignty and dominance on its neighbouring territories (Weeks, 2012). These feelings are less passionate now because the Russian Empire has ceased to exist and years of peace and relatively cordial international relations have long been the accepted trend among nations (Weeks, 2012). The meanings associated with the colours have changed throughout the years in Russia depending on their history and the events unfolding in their country. At some point, red was even interpreted as representative of the Russian people, blue with the Ukrainians, and white with the Belo Russians (Weeks, 2012). In effect, the use of these specific colours in Russia is significantly linked to the Slavic states, closely associated as a sacred union with the cultural traditions of these countries. During the years of the czarist Russia, these same colours also evoked different meanings, with the red representing the people, the blue representing the czar and white representing God (Weeks, 2012). During these times, the people believed that the order of the universe was God at the very top, followed by the Czar, with the people below the czar (Weeks, 2012). Beyond these representations, the Russian people also interpreted these colours in different ways, with the red symbolizing the land, the blue representing the blue sky, and the white being associated with the heavens (Weeks, 2012). These meanings and symbolisms seem to be confusing, however, with the changing history and conceptualizations of Russia, its government, and its citizens, these shifts and varying meanings are understandable. The colour green has also taken significant, often opposite meanings based on various cultures and countries. This colour has been richly associated with Ireland and even among the Irish, this colour has different meanings (Kohl and Richard, 1988). This colour is associated with the green four leaf clovers and as such, it is a lucky colour for these people. The green colour is primarily associated with the Irish Catholics, mostly through St. Patrick who used a shamrock in order to instruct the Irish about the Holy Trinity (Kohl and Richard, 1988). Hence, the colour green and the shape of the shamrock seem to symbolize Irish Catholicism (Kohl and Richard, 1988). Although the colour blue is a more accurate representation for St. Patrick, the Irish people have had a better and more identifiable association with the colour green in relation to their saint, as well as their other traditions. Although green is considered lucky in Ireland, it is considered a restricted or forbidden colour in Indonesia. Hence, businesses often avoid this colour in their marketing and advertising enterprises in Indonesia (Color Combos, 2012). It also has an unfortunate connotation in China because when a green hat would be worn by a Chinese man, he is telling the rest of the world that his wide has been cheating on him (Color Combos, 2012). Like the Irish, the Middle East also considers green a lucky colour as it mostly associates with the colour of money. In the Islamic region, this colour is even considered holy (Color Combos, 2012). In the lush and green regions of South America, the colour green is associated with their jungles, which are often deadly and treacherous places (Color Combos, 2012). As a result, the colour green for these people means death. However, such green representation for foliage and fauna is viewed with favour in India because they believe that the colour represents a fruitful harvest. On a similar note, the colour green is also associated with prosperity among some Eastern European nations (Color Combos, 2012). Traditionally, this colour symbolized fertility during the Middle Ages, and as such, it was the choice colour preferred by brides. It was even a popular eye shadow among Egyptian women and, in Asia, jade has long been considered a sacred stone (Color Combos, 2012). In contemporary times, the green colour in weddings has been replaced by the dominant white. The jade stone is still considered sacred in Asia, however it is no longer a popular eye shadow among Egyptian women. In the United States of America, this colour has various meanings. Green has been associated with being inexperienced, hence, the term greenhorn (Color Combos, 2012). It is also commonly associated with envy or jealousy as is apparent in the phrase, “green with envy.” It is also associated with nature and lush foliage, especially when one is labelled as having a green thumb. Having a green thumb seems to represent a skill in successfully growing and propagating plants in one’s home (Color Combos, 2012). Money, as was repeatedly mentioned above, is also associated with the colour green. Green is also considered a relaxing and calming colour. As such, green rooms are rooms where TV guests and performers can relax before facing the camera or before performing (Webster, 2006). Psychologists believe that this shade of colour has a relaxing effect on the person, especially the eyes. For which reason, this colour seems to be the preferred colour in hospitals, on scrub suits and hospital decor (Webster, 2006). In classrooms, it is also the preferred colour because of its calming effect on students. Americans also associate this colour with the environment, specifically environmental conservation (Color Combos, 2012). The phrase ‘going green’ symbolizes the use of environmentally-friendly resources. Green technology also implies the use of technology which would not have a negative impact on the environment. Under these considerations, going green would likely mean recycling, tree planting, using environmentally-friendly products, and avoiding all forms of pollution (Color Combos, 2012). For the Japanese, red signifies their blood and passion; however, the colour also has religious associations to them because it is the colour of the robes of the second highest abbot of their Zen Buddhist religion (Turner, 2009). In the Chinese practice of Feng Shui, the red colour is used to create positive energy. The colour is in fact painted on doors as a means to welcome the favourable chi into their homes (Turner, 2009). Red symbolizes fire, the summer season, joy, fortune, and good luck in the Chinese region, including Hong Kong and Taiwan. In some parts of Southeast Asia however, letters written in red ink indicates anger and a severance of a relationship (Turner, 2009). In effect, in these areas, red is also considered an unlucky colour. Very much like their Chinese counterparts, Indian brides also wear red on their wedding day. The colour red is associated with Lakshmi, who is considered the goddess of wealth and beauty (Turner, 2009). Red is made to convey a new phase in their life, one which would hopefully filled with fertility and abundance. Pink is also a cherished colour in India and is made to express joy and happiness (Turner, 2009). During the Ganesh Festivals, which is a festival celebrating the Hindu god of good luck and good omens, pink features prominently. Pink dust is even tossed to the spectators at the end of the parade (Turner, 2009). This colour is also used in the French academic dress system with the darker shade of pink (almost red) is associated with Medicine and other related fields of healthcare (Turner, 2009). In Ireland, this colour also has another meaning or symbolism. Pink is associated with single gay men, single gay women, or same-sex couples seeking to adopt or who have already adopted (Turner, 2009). Very much distant from the adoption association, the colour pink is also associated with a day of the week, specifically, Tuesday in Thailand. This is said to match their solar calendar. The colour is work on Tuesdays to recognize this day and those born on Tuesday may sometimes adopt it as their colour (Turner, 2009). In relation to employment, particularly in the United States, those getting laid off or being fired from their work may also have a possible association with this colour as they may receive a pink slip during such times (Turner, 2009). Aside from red, orange is also a popular and preferred colour in various Asian countries. It is the preferred colour of the Buddhist robes. According to stories, the orange and yellow robes of the monks are linked to the changing colours of the leaves which are basically a persistent reminder of the need to let go (Turner, 2009). Other more common explanations for the orange robes refers to the use of vegetable dyes available to these monks, mostly that of jackfruit, cumin, and saffron (Turner, 2009). These colours later became standard colours for the religion in Asia and in other Buddhists in different parts of the world. In general, the colour orange in Asia evokes feelings of happiness, health, and bounty (Singh, 2006). To this date, these same feelings are associated with the colour orange in Asia and with the Buddhist religion. The colour yellow has been discussed well in relation to the Philippines. However, in other countries, it also holds much meaning. In China, it is considered the colour of nobility and royalty with their high priests preferring this colour (Turner, 2009). They also believe that yellow is a symbolism for their gods and for power. This colour was also adopted as the colour of the earth and of creation due to the yellow soil seen in northern China where the ruling dynasties are installed (Turner, 2009). Similar associations with royalty are also seen in Malaysia and with the Islam religion. In Malaysia’s neighbour Indonesia, their mythical bird Garuda, which is their national symbol, is yellow (Turner, 2009). Indonesia associates it with freedom and liberty, very much like their bird in flight. In the spring festivals of India, yellow is a very visible colour. It is seen in most of the participants and their food is distinctly yellow, mostly because of their favoured curry spice. The participants also sprinkle yellow turmeric powder over the status of the gods which are said to be associated with the spring season (Turner, 2009). During weddings, yellow turmeric powder is also smeared on the skin of the couple. This practice is said to symbolize health, bounty, and fertility. The colour blue has already been discussed above in relation to various countries and cultures. This colour is considered one of the earliest dyes, and its symbolism in relation to water and heaven is common in various cultures (Turner, 2009). For India, it is very much revered. It has a more distinct and honoured meaning among the Indians. They associate it with the heavens, with mercy and with love. Their gods Lord Vishnu, Shiva and Krishna are often depicted with blue skin (Turner, 2009). There is also some mystery associated with this colour for the Indian people, but regardless of its meaning, the Indian people credit this colour with much reverence. Brown is also one of the most visible colours of the earth. It is also seen in the soil the barks of trees and other plants (Turner, 2009). In general, the Europeans have not gained much affinity for the colour as they consider it dull and drab; however other cultures and countries attribute much honour and esteem in this colour. In Japan, the colour brown has a huge role in the Shibui traditions where the people honour subtle and simple beauty (Turner, 2009). It is also a dominant colour in the desert lands of the Middle East. To these people, the brown earth is viewed with contrasting feelings of hardship and bounty. They recognize that just as their bare lands have subjected them to hardships, it has also brought them the resources they need in order to survive. Conclusion The discussion above provides a plethora of meanings and emotions associated with colour. These colours evoke various emotions in different cultures and countries with sometime opposite emotions or even similar emotions. Depending on the history and the traditions of the people, these colours trigger specific emotions. In effect, although the colour red may mean the blood which has been shed by the people of Africa for the sake of their freedom and independence, it is a colour which depicts good luck, wealth, and happiness in China. Just as the colour black may evoke feelings of mourning for most people, it may mean something more physical and visceral to the African people. The symbolisms are bountiful and diverse. For people seeking to understand these representations, it is important to study and evaluate the people’s or a culture’s history and beliefs. By understanding their cultures and history, misunderstandings can be avoided and a more engaged perception of colours can be made possible. References China Odyssey Tours, 2011. China red, the color of china [online]. 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