ABOUT
100 colors lab is a platform for observing,
collecting, and exploring colors.
Although we are surrounded by millions of colors,
we often perceive them only through a limited vocabulary:
red, blue, yellow, and green.
100 colors lab encourages a closer observation of the colors that already exist around us.
By paying attention to subtle differences, participants discover the richness, diversity, and beauty of color that often goes unnoticed.
The goal is not simply to identify colors,
but to become more aware of them.
Observation becomes the starting point for a deeper understanding of color and a new way of seeing the world.
METHOD
The process consists of four steps:
Observe.
Collect.
Classify.
Compose.
Participants begin by observing colors in their surroundings and collecting examples from everyday life. Through repeated observation and collection, they discover countless subtle variations that often go unnoticed.
The collected colors are then classified, compared, and organized, revealing relationships between colors and developing a deeper sensitivity to nuance.
Finally, the colors are composed into visual and spatial works.
The process involves two complementary actions:
expanding perception
and refining perception.
First, participants expand their awareness by recognizing the infinite diversity of color.
Then, through selection, classification, and composition, they refine that awareness into a deeper understanding of color.
By moving between these two actions, participants develop their own relationship with color through direct experience.
The method encourages both analytical thinking and visual sensitivity, expanding one's awareness of color.
FOUNDER
100 colors lab was founded by artist and architect Emmanuelle Moureaux.
Born in France and based in Tokyo since 1996,
Moureaux is internationally known for her exploration
of color as a medium for creating space.
She developed the concept of "shikiri" —
creating space through layers of color.
For more than two decades, she has observed, collected, classified, and composed colors found in cities, landscapes, objects, light, and everyday life.
The same approach forms the foundation of 100 colors lab.
Originally developed as an educational project at Tohoku University of Art & Design, 100 colors lab has evolved into an ongoing platform for research, exhibitions, workshops, and creative exploration dedicated to the observation and exploration of color.
Through observation,
colors become more than visual information.
They become a way of experiencing the world.
