synesthesia

Color as identity explores and exploits the circumstances in which color can represent a disposition through relationships of a color to an element and a color to another color. This began by tracing the origins of colors in history, specifically pigments, to find the superimposed and inherent connotations. From there, I studied the site of Reseda Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley, mapping its colors on multiple scales and categorizing the ways that color was manifested in the architecture of the site. Using pigments. I superimposed a category onto an image of a different category, for example, deception was superimposed on an image displaying identity ultimately browning the image. Doing this was meant to present new approaches to using color as applied to specific elements and circumstances. Understanding how color behaves independently and subserviently to physical conditions is where this thesis lies.

The project aims to show the ease at which basic wall paint can perform and transform a space and a user’s reading. By creating a set of rules that can be set to any city in any circumstance, color can enhance a space without physically altering it. Paint is the cheapest way to make something look good. Reseda Boulevard, what used to be a well-known hub for the Valley, lost its edge and is looking to restore what it once was. Applying color on all elements along a boulevard provides the necessary face-lift that the street needs, ultimately empowering the boulevard and giving it identity. Not only is identity created on the large scale, but it exists on all scales through the application of a rule-set that aims to enhance businesses, buildings, streets, and neighborhood blocks.

The final deliverable for this thesis project was a film that explored the various modes of representation and compositions meant to show the idea of applying color and painting the boulevard. The relationship of the street to the building façade became linework through the simple use of elevational shots and street shots, therefore allowing for a basis of color imposition throughout the film.