Thursday, October 28, 2010

Colors and Townscapes

By Bahkti Shah


This article talks about the colors in townscapes as expressions of values and their impressions on one’s mind. The colors in townscapes are not merely a built form and visual relief, but something which goes beyond that. It goes deep into the differences in ones perception for personal feelings within their visions and souls.

Colors have a symbolic connotations as well as psychological significance. Color surrounds us; it feeds & nourishes our senses. We see it, feel it & absorb it. Our mind, body & spirit are profoundly affected by it.

Townscape is physical & social characteristics of built & unbuilt urban environment & the way in which we perceive these characteristics. It is the mixture of characteristics & perception that make up & contribute to the townscape character which gives a sense of place or an identity where color is the predominant element.

The true identity of Indian social fabric lies deeper than surface decoration. There is a notion of depth and meaning which mirrors the Indian mythology. The buildings and towns are meant for all people, such as for the literate & illiterate, children and even senior citizens, thus they establish the dialogue between built form and human beings.

As time passes, townscapes are evolved in all dimensions of space, aesthetics, materials and colors, but the basic expression of identity remains the same. The colors of townscapes are influenced and are evolving for several reasons, for example, geographical locations, foreign influences, availability of resources, individual likings and by the order of the king in their kingdom during different empires. Similarly, it is perceived in different forms like in landscaping, streets, architectural elements, handicrafts and clothes, etc. Within the town, each community has their traditional references that are symbolically depicted by them in their paintings, on the walls and with decorations. This also adds the colors to the townscape and still retains its identity.

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