The Conspicuous Colour Blue - ‘Lapis Lazuli’ - In the History of Art

  • Ernesto Carlos Pujazon Patron Weifang Institute of Technology, Qingzhou. China
  • Jose Domingo Elias Potificia Universidad Catolica del Peru, Peru.

Abstract

Colour plays a fundamental role in human perception and its effects on cognition and behaviour have intrigued generations of researchers. The intent of this two-part paper is to provide a wider understanding of the history and evolution from its early beginnings. It also analyses the diverse characteristics of plant-based colours and minerals that produce this intriguing colour called, ‘blue’. Although a large amount of research has been conducted in this domain, the psychological processes through which colour operates, have not been explored comprehensively. As a result, the field has observed certain conflicting results. The first part of this article studies the colour ‘blue’ as a pigment. Besides, it also offers some early development of the colour ‘blue’ in the light spectrum set by the initial developments in the history of science. The second part examines how ‘blue’ has long proven a problem for artists. There are a few materials that are blue in their natural state, that can serve as pigments for painters. During the Renaissance period, artists used a pigment called natural ultramarine (Lapis-Lazuli), lauded for its rich and striking appearance to capture the great beyond, this mineral was introduced by Venetian merchants and brought originally from the mines of Afghanistan, located in the remote province of Badakhshan. It is very common when religion, science, and the arts meet to apply philosophies which are interwoven around historical and social events to present science as human, relevant and a lively endeavour. Finally, this paper brings to a conclusion a short briefing of the works of two of the most expressive artists, Giotto and Titian, and the usage of lapis lazuli - (Ultramarine) in the development of their colour palette. 


 


Keywords: Lapis Lazuli, Indigo, Ultramarine-Blue, Goa-Blue, Light Spectrum. 

Author Biography

Ernesto Carlos Pujazon Patron, Weifang Institute of Technology, Qingzhou. China

STATEMENT

Professor Dr Ernesto Pujazon

I think I have what it takes to meet any university's management and instruction requirements as well as those for professional conduct, mentoring, management, and leadership. Developing students' global mindset through intercultural competence and fostering understanding between peer students and university academic staff are other concerns of mine. For the past 25 years, art and design have been taught in Malaysia and China. In my role as senior position and head of the Design School at Taylor's University, I created and implemented the foundation program, achieving high standards of teaching evaluations and guidance to students with pertinent curriculum and academy policies established by the university with the most effective efficiency and economical use of resources, while enhancing the university's profile by creating new teaching and learning strategies. Because of our collaboration with educational institutions from Australia, New Zealand, and the British system of education that offer dual awards and dual degrees, I am aware of the difficulties the new generation of students faces in a multicultural environment. Any art and design program should incorporate diversity through academia, research, and leadership to improve student learning and prepare them for the constantly changing world. I firmly believe that in light of the current challenges, the current generation of students should receive an education in a setting that fosters cross-cultural and inclusive pedagogy, closes the physical gap that once separated people from one another, and makes communication possible at all levels of society.

In order to work in a world without boundaries, students should be well-equipped to meet industry standards and should have an open-minded, inquisitive mindset. Last but not least, I make an effort to maintain a healthy balance between my work responsibilities, personal development, family time, and physical activity. My ability to communicate in three different languages, including Spanish, English, and Chinese mandarin, has increased my understanding of culture.

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Published
2024-04-01
How to Cite
PATRON, Ernesto Carlos Pujazon; ELIAS, Jose Domingo. The Conspicuous Colour Blue - ‘Lapis Lazuli’ - In the History of Art. Idealogy Journal, [S.l.], v. 9, n. 1, apr. 2024. ISSN 2550-214X. Available at: <https://idealogyjournal.com/ojs/index.php/idealogy/article/view/519>. Date accessed: 23 nov. 2024. doi: https://doi.org/10.24191/idealogy.v9i1.519.