Colors shape our world, influencing moods, decisions, and even memories. Yet, the names we assign to these colors can significantly alter our perception of them.

Take yellow, for example—a color often described simply as “yellow.” Many find this term flat and uninspiring. In our recent discussion, members of the Continuing Residents' Enso Circle highlighted how richer descriptors transform yellow into something vibrant and evocative.

Consider alternatives like “butterscotch,” “saffron,” and “sunshine.” Each name conjures a distinct image and emotion. “Lemon” brings zest to mind, while “dandelion” evokes a carefree childhood, blowing on fluffy seed heads. These alternatives offer a sensory experience that the plain term “yellow” simply cannot provide.

Interestingly, yellow also carries a range of associations that can taint its appeal. Words like “cowardice” (think “yellow-bellied”) or images of decay (like “yellowed pages”) can overshadow its brightness. In contrast, colors like blue or pink lack such negative connotations, perhaps making them feel more universally appealing.

Our conversation revealed that the richness of a color’s name can create connections to personal experiences and emotions. When we hear “Tuscan sun,” we imagine warm landscapes and joyful moments, while “dijon” evokes culinary delight. The way we label colors can awaken our senses, creating a tapestry of feelings that a single word might miss.

As artists, designers, and even communicators, it’s crucial to recognize the impact of language on our perception of color. By choosing more descriptive names, we can elevate our understanding and appreciation of the hues around us, inviting others to see the world through a more vibrant lens. Let’s embrace the poetic possibilities of color naming—because every shade has a story to tell.

In the Third Week of the Residency, Enso Circle artists share behind-the-scene glimpses of their creative spaces.

The Enso Circle Artists in Residence each have unique studio spaces that reflect their personal approaches to creativity. For some, the studio serves as a shelter—a sanctuary where they can retreat, think deeply, and explore inner ideas. Others treat their studio like a laboratory, experimenting with new techniques, materials, or processes to push their art into new territories. Some use the space simply to paint or construct, where focused, hands-on work takes precedence. The size of the studio doesn’t necessarily matter; what counts is how the space is used.

The studios themselves vary widely: some are meticulously organized, with each tool and material in its place, while others are chaotic, filled with the vibrant energy of works in progress. Does it matter? Not really. What’s important is how the space supports the artist's vision and journey. Whether neat or messy, each studio is an extension of the artist's process, a space where creative epiphanies are born and nurtured into existence.

Please enjoy this short video peek into the working spaces of these diverse and inventive artists.