Smithsonian Color Journey

The complex phenomenon of color perception has captivated artists, designers, scientists, and philosophers for ages. Color surrounds us in nature and in the world we create. Take a colorful tour through art and artifacts in the Smithsonian's collections. Discover ways of understanding the science of color with Smithsonian Libraries and Archives and the story behind the colors we create with the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.

Color enthusiasts of all ages can download coloring pages from Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. The Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery has created coloring pages of some of our favorite portraits so you can #ColorOurCollections.