Colour Decoded
19 March - August 2005

Colour Decoded is an exploration of the role of colour in the natural and human worlds. The exhibition brings together Oldham’s extensive social history, natural history, and fine and decorative art collections.

The role of colour as a symbol of allegiance, in areas such as politics and sport, is explored through historical items and paintings.

Links are made between the natural and human worlds. The display and symbolism shown by our clothing is demonstrated through clothes, uniforms and artworks, alongside equivalents in the natural world, such as attractive, colourful feathers. Warning colours in nature are compared with the man-made systems devised to keep us safe through time.

Colour Decoded focuses on the ways in which colour is used in many different ways by artists to invoke mood, atmosphere, and symbolic reference.

The exhibition includes interactive fun and games for people of all ages. Come along and put some colour in your life!

Wednesday 1 June, 1-4pm, free
Find out more about the colours on our roads from Oldham Road Safety Unit and take part in activities that explore the way we see.

Image: Gravy for the Navy, 1963 by Peter Phillips