Faber Birren

Faber Birren, born in 1900 and passing in 1988, was an American author and consultant specializing in color theory and its applications. Educated at the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Chicago, he began publishing on color in the late 1920s. His career as an industrial color consultant, beginning in 1934, involved advising major corporations and the military on how color impacts safety, mood, productivity, and sales. He advocated for using color to reduce visual fatigue and prevent accidents.

Birren authored numerous books and articles, delving into the multifaceted nature of color, from its historical and scientific dimensions to its psychological and even mystical interpretations. His bibliography includes works that examine color harmony, perception, and its historical use in art and symbolism. He also edited and annotated works by other authors on related subjects, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge in this field. Birren's lifelong dedication to the study of color led him to donate a significant collection of books on the subject to Yale University Library and establish an endowment for color research, underscoring his commitment to its ongoing study.

Faber Birren developed a career as a consultant, applying his deep understanding of color to practical industrial and commercial challenges. Starting his consultancy in 1934, he advised a range of clients, including prominent companies like DuPont, Monsanto, and General Electric, as well as military organizations. His counsel focused on the tangible effects of color, such as improving workplace safety by using bright colors on machinery to prevent accidents and reducing employee eye strain by optimizing interior color schemes. He also explored color's influence on worker morale, productivity, and consumer purchasing decisions, demonstrating a keen insight into the psychological impact of the visible spectrum on human behavior and performance.

Beyond its industrial applications, Birren's extensive writings explored the broader significance of color, touching upon its historical, symbolic, and even mystical dimensions. His book "Color: A Survey in Words and Pictures, from Ancient Mysticism to Modern Science" directly addresses the esoteric and historical threads of color understanding. He also delved into the principles of color harmony and the psychological responses color elicits. Through his work, Birren connected ancient traditions and modern scientific understanding, suggesting color held profound influence beyond mere aesthetics. His legacy includes not only his own prolific writing but also his support for further research and the preservation of color-related literature.