The History of the Color Red Takes Center Stage in New Exhibition

The History of the Color Red Takes Center Stage in New Exhibition

As a history buff and an artist with a penchant for vibrant colors, I must say that the “Seeing Red” exhibition at the North Carolina Museum of Art is nothing short of breathtaking! The rich tapestry of human history, culture, and artistry that this exhibit weaves together is truly awe-inspiring.


Over the course of time, red has left its mark on numerous things: it’s the shade of blood and the pigment our early human ancestors often used when painting cave walls. Later, the Romans preferred red for adorning their military uniforms, and in current times, red is one of the most commonly used primary colors among sports teams and many national flags. Currently, at the North Carolina Museum of Art, there’s a fresh exhibit delving into the history of the color red.

Seeing Red is mapped out across generations, linking disparate periods, such as the Ancient Incas and the Renaissance, bridging the gap in how civilization as a whole has collectively viewed various shades of the rosy hue. The institution has described it as “arguably the most important color to human beings,” because red has simultaneously represented “danger, distinguished our leaders, glorified our religious images, and underscored our life and death. For many, red was divine, a direct connection to gods and the supernatural.”

In a statement, Perry Hurt, the museum’s head of conservation, noted that red ochre – a naturally occurring pigment derived from minerals – has long been linked with humans and is frequently discovered in archaeological settings across various historical periods and continents. Throughout history, red has often been believed to possess mystical powers, representing some sort of vital energy or life force, as Hurt explained further.

Exploring the Art of Red: This exhibit offers a detailed exploration of how red pigments are produced and their historical significance. You can catch it at a location in North Carolina until late December 2025.

North Carolina Museum of Art
2110 Blue Ridge Rd,
Raleigh, NC 27607

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2024-07-31 21:25