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- Every March 21
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International Colour Day brightens the calendar every March 21, inviting us to explore the profound impact of color on our world. From art and science to culture and emotion, color shapes our perception and experiences. Dive into the spectrum of activities, learn about its significance, and add a splash of vibrancy to your day.
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History of International Colour Day
Color has always made humans curious since the beginning of time. Aristotle believed that the colors came from heaven. He believed that the origin of all colors was black and white. However, it was in the 1660s when Issac Newton experimented with light and its different spectrums, that color became a topic of study. After 2000 years, Aristotle’s postulates were replaced by the ones Newton created. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German novelist, playwright, and scientist argued that color was something that was perceived by individuals differently. He is well-known for his quote, “Colors are light’s sufferings and joy”. The distinction between primary and secondary colors was made by Jacob Christoph Le Blon.
In 2008, Maria Joao Durao, the president of the Portuguese Color Association, came up with a proposal to ‘Association Internationale de la Couleur (A.I.C.)’ for recognizing the importance of color and dedicating a day to it. In 2009, the proposal was accepted by the members. The date was chosen to be March 21 as it is the day of the equinox. Competitions, science fairs, art fairs, etc. are held to celebrate. In 2012, an art competition was held in Taipei, Taiwan for deciding on the logo for International Color Day. Hosana Yau of Hong Kong won the competition with his diagram of two circles that made an eye. Half of the circle consisted of rainbow colors and the other half was black. They represented light and darkness.
International Colour Day timeline
Aristotle states that the origins of all colors is black and white and that colors came from heaven.
In his book “Opticks,” Issac Newton describes the phenomenon of the spectrum of light.
The Portuguese Color Association proposes a day dedicated to color.
International Color Day is created for the sole purpose of celebrating color.
International Colour Day FAQs
When is International Colour Day?
In 2027, International Colour Day is observed on Sunday, March 21. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the science, art, and cultural significance of color across the globe.
Why is International Colour Day celebrated on March 21?
The date of March 21 aligns with the equinox, a moment of equilibrium between light and darkness. This natural phenomenon provides a fitting backdrop for a day dedicated to celebrating the full spectrum of colors and their universal presence.
Who proposed International Colour Day?
The concept of an International Colour Day originated with the Portuguese Color Association, which put forward the proposal in 2008. Their vision was to establish a global day to acknowledge and promote the importance of color in various aspects of human experience.
What is the significance of color in culture?
Across diverse cultures, color serves as a potent form of communication, influencing everything from religious rituals and national flags to fashion and art. Its meanings are deeply embedded in history and belief systems, reflecting a rich tapestry of human expression.
International Colour Day Activities
Participate in the events
Take part in the exhibitions and webinars that are held on International Color Day and learn new things. This can be particularly useful for kids.
Wear your National color
Wear your national flag as a tee shirt or wrap the flag around you. Share your sense of patriotism even as you celebrate colors.
Share it on social media
Let everyone know you're celebrating this day. Take pictures of you taking part in International Color Day celebrations and share them on social media.
5 Intriguing Facts About Colors
Blue is a favorite color
The color blue is known to be the favorite of most people in the world.
There’s a fear of color
The fear of color is called Chromophobia.
Women see color better
There are two X chromosomes in women, and that helps them see certain spectrums better.
Newborns see red first
Since the color red has the longest wavelength, it is the first color that a baby sees.
The gray before dark is a phenomenon
The gray we see the second we turn off the lights is called eigengrau.
Why We Love International Colour Day
It gives us a chance to appreciate color
We live in a colorful world. But sometimes, we forget to appreciate all the colors around us. This day is a reminder to be grateful for color.
It’s a day to engage family
This day gives us a chance to participate in events with friends and family. It brings families closer.
It improves our general knowledge
The exhibitions and science fairs held on this day are educational. This can be beneficial for the kids.
International Colour Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | March 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | March 21 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | March 21 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | March 21 | Thursday |
| 2031 | March 21 | Friday |
