Traité théorique et pratique de l'impression des tissus, by Jean Persoz, 1805-1868.
Matt Flynn Traité théorique et pratique de l'impression des tissus, by Jean Persoz, 1805-1868.

Ever balked at the small-talk standard: “What’s your favorite color?” Fear not, because the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum’s “Saturated: The Allure and Science of Color” can help untangle the mysteries of how we use and perceive different hues. Featuring 190 artifacts—including Sir Isaac Newton’s color theory texts, the playfully pink Henry Dreyfuss Associates–designed Signature Princess Telephone (1993), and the riotus CMYK tapestry of Fanette Mellier’s Specimen poster—the exhibition explores the optics, creation, and commercial appeal of color, and the ways new technologies are sparking innovation.

Signature Princess Telephone, 1993; Designed by Henry Dreyfuss Associates
Ellen McDermott Signature Princess Telephone, 1993; Designed by Henry Dreyfuss Associates

“Saturated: The Allure and Science of Color” is on view through Jan. 13, 2019.

3D-printed nylon Tall Green Bloom Urn, 2012, Designed by Michael Eden
Ellen McDermott 3D-printed nylon Tall Green Bloom Urn, 2012, Designed by Michael Eden
French sample plate, circa 1920s.
Matt Flynn French sample plate, circa 1920s.
Specimen poster, 2008, Designed by Fanette Mellier
Matt Flynn Specimen poster, 2008, Designed by Fanette Mellier
Anodized aluminum picnic flatware place setting, designed by David Tisdale, 1986.
Courtesy Smithsonian Institution Anodized aluminum picnic flatware place setting, designed by David Tisdale, 1986.
Blown and drawn glass Aryballos, dating to the 3rd or 4th century.
Matt Flynn Blown and drawn glass Aryballos, dating to the 3rd or 4th century.