Colour is a language of its own, a whisper from creation that speaks to our emotions, our senses, and even our faith. From the moment we open our eyes, colour shapes how we see the world, how we interpret beauty, and how we express ourselves. It’s no surprise, then, that colour has been studied, theorised, and celebrated for centuries—not just in art, but in science, music, and our world of floral design.
In this blog, we’ll explore the theory of how we see colour, the fascinating connection between colour and sound, and how these ideas come alive in the world of flowers.
The Science of Seeing Colour

Colour begins with light. Every colour we see is a result of light waves reflecting off an object and hitting our eyes. White light, like sunlight, contains all the colours of the spectrum, but objects absorb certain wavelengths and reflect others. A red rose, for instance, absorbs most wavelengths but reflects red light back to us.
Once that light enters our eyes, the magic begins. In our retinas, cone cells respond to three specific wavelengths of light—red, green, and blue. Our brain combines these signals, giving us the vibrant palette of colours we see every day. As humans it's estimated we see around 1 million different colours. What’s extraordinary is that even though our biology is the same, our perception of colour can differ slightly from person to person. Is the blue I see the same blue you see? It’s a philosophical puzzle that adds to the beauty of colour’s mystery.
The Harmony of Colour and Sound
Now, let’s take it a step further. Imagine being able to hear colour. This isn’t a poetic exaggeration

—there’s an actual theory called colour-sound synaesthesia, where people associate colours with specific musical notes or tones. For instance, a deep blue might evoke the resonance of a cello, while a bright yellow might feel like the trill of a flute.
This connection isn’t just limited to those with synaesthesia. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a famed poet and scientist, explored how colour and sound could harmonise in his work Theory of Colours. He described warm tones like red and orange as having an energising quality, akin to the major keys in music, while cooler tones like blue and green felt like the calm of minor keys.
Even today, some composers and visual artists use this link between colour and sound to create multisensory experiences.
It’s a reminder of the intricate ways creation has been woven together—every sense echoing another, each adding its own dimension to how we experience beauty.
Colour in Floral Design: A Symphony of Petals
In floral design, colour isn’t just decoration; it’s a language that tells a story. Flowers bring life to our spaces and celebrations, and the colours we choose carry deep meaning. From weddings to memorials, from joy to grief, every arrangement is a composition, where colour plays both melody and harmony.
1. The Emotional Weight of Colour

Just like music can make us feel something, so can flowers. In floral design, warm colours like red, orange, and yellow are bold and joyful, perfect for celebrations or to create energy in a space. Cool colours like blue, lavender, and green are calming and serene, bringing a sense of peace and reflection. Pink often carries connotations of love and affection, while white stands for purity and reverence.

If you’ve ever walked into a room with a vibrant arrangement of sunflowers, you’ll know the power of warm, golden tones to uplift your mood. Conversely, a soft blue hydrangea bouquet can bring tranquillity to the soul.
2. Colour Contrast and Harmony
In floral arrangements, colour theory is the designer’s compass. The colour wheel—first introduced by Isaac Newton—helps florists understand how colours interact. Complementary colours, like red and green, create vibrant contrast. Analogous colours, like yellow, orange, and red, are next to each other on the colour wheel, offering a harmonious blend.
For instance, an arrangement with pale pink roses, soft white lilies, and fresh green ferns might feel elegant and subtle. On the other hand, adding in deep red dahlias or bright orange marigolds creates a lively burst of drama. The possibilities are endless, and each choice creates a different mood.
3. Synaesthesia in Floral Design
The link between colour and sound can even be felt in floral design. As flower arrangers, at times, we refer to our own work in musical terms, talking about “high notes” and “bass tones” within their arrangements. A bright yellow tulip might be the soprano, while dark purple calla lilies act as the deep, grounding bass. It’s a poetic way to think about how arrangements “sing” in their own way.
When designing, it’s worth asking: What story am I telling through these colours? What feeling do I want to evoke? The answers guide every choice, from the blooms themselves to the vase, ribbons, and even the setting.
Faith and Colour: A Divine Palette
As Christian artists, colour often carries an additional layer of meaning. Creation itself is rich with symbolism, and colour reflects the beauty and creativity of God. Red reminds us of sacrifice and love, purple of royalty and reverence, green of growth and renewal.
In floral design, incorporating these meanings can add spiritual depth to a piece. Consider an arrangement for Easter: white lilies symbolise purity and resurrection, paired with yellow daffodils for joy and hope. The intentional use of colour can create an atmosphere that gently points to the beauty of creation and the Creator behind it.
Conclusion: Colour as a Gift

Whether we’re seeing it, hearing it, or arranging it, colour is a gift—a language of the senses that speaks to our hearts and minds. In floral design, it’s a tool for storytelling, an expression of emotion, and a celebration of life. From the science of how we see colour to the art of how we use it, every petal and hue is a reminder of the care and creativity that went into crafting this world.
So, next time you pick up a bouquet, pause for a moment. Notice the tones, the contrasts, the harmony. Let the colours remind you of the beauty around you, and the beauty within you too.
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