The Theory of Color

Sight is half observation and half perception. Warm shades of yellow and orange “come forward” visually, while cooler shades of blue and indigo “recede.” Two contrast complementary colors viewed next to one another are perceived to be respectively brighter and more vibrant than if one of those colors were viewed alone. Like us, colors are strengthened by their adversaries: the most jarring contrasts are also the most compelling.

Using color theory as a catalyst, photographer Rebecca Storm explores Montreal, the kaleidoscopic home base of SSENSE. From eerily vibrant forests surrounding one of the city’s oldest settlements, to run-down dive bars, pieces from Maison Margiela, Acne Studios, Emilio Pucci, Ashish and Miu Miu harmonize with some of the city’s most iconic and derelict settings.