About the Exhibition
Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema investigates the role of color in film, from the scientific and technological advancements that made it possible, to its emotional and psychological impact on viewers, to the ways filmmakers use color as a storytelling tool.
The exhibition takes an immersive and innovative approach to understanding cinematic color through six unique galleries, each focusing on a different aspect of film color. Color in Motion engages visitors through dynamic, colorful film installations and features objects from the silent era through the digital age, including cameras, projectors, costumes, props, animation cels, and film posters. Object highlights include:
Dorothy’s ruby red slippers from The Wizard of Oz (USA, 1939)
A green costume worn by Kim Novak in Vertigo (USA, 1958)
A blue costume worn by Jamie Foxx in Django Unchained (USA, 2012)
The red jacket worn by Jack Nicholson in The Shining (USA, 1980)
A red sari worn by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Jodhaa Akbar (India, 2008)
Two-color and three-color Technicolor cameras highlighting the Technicolor II and IV processes, respectively
A yellow color study model of the house from Pixar’s Up (USA, 2009)
Original materials from Disney’s Ink & Paint Department
An early stencil cutting machine and stencil application machine used at Pathé studios
A Color Arcade concludes the exhibition with an opportunity for visitors to physically interact with color through physical movement, inviting them to see, create, and experience "color in motion."
"Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema is also accompanied by a vibrant catalogue co-published with DelMonico Books."
The exhibition is curated by Senior Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel with Associate Curator Sophia Serrano, Curatorial Assistant Alexandra James Salichs, and former Curatorial Assistant Manouchka Kelly Labouba.
Advisory Board: Professor Barbara Flueckiger, Professor Joshua Yumibe, Professor Ranjani Mazumdar, and Professor Kirsten Moana Thompson
Exhibition Catalogue
Explore the Book
Discover the rich legacy of color in film with Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema. From early cinematic techniques to modern innovations, this essential book delves into color’s impact on storytelling and visual artistry. Published in celebration of the Academy Museum’s Color in Motion exhibition, it’s a must-read for film enthusiasts.
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Supported By
Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema is among more than 70 exhibitions and programs presented as part of PST ART. Returning in September 2024 with its latest edition, PST ART: Art & Science Collide, this landmark regional event explores the intersections of art and science, both past and present. PST ART is presented by Getty. For more information about PST ART: Art & Science Collide, please visit pst.art. Generous support also provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Program in Public Understanding of Science and Technology and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture. Additional support provided by Howard and Mirjam Berger and Emma Koss. Academy Museum Digital Engagement Platform sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies. Technology solutions generously provided by Christie®