The Grey Area
Elian Villarrubia
What is, in fact, the grey area? Why is this such an ambiguous, elusive color? How could we ever define such a phenomenon? Using the framework of Renaissance illuminated manuscripts, this study explores grey's transitional nature and reveals its role at the intersection of art, science, and philosophy. Through the lens of mind, body, and soul, this book collection encapsulates grey as an experience: a state of being beyond definition. Classical and religious books are the main sources of inspiration for the content and design of this study, which examines grey on the illustrated page, a medium that has withstood the test of time.
Volume I: The Mind introduces grey as ephemeral, birth, and newness within themes of religion and life. Volume II: The Body praises grey for its textural sensibility and ambiguity and features themes of lust, restraint, and in-betweenness. Volume III: The Soul concludes that grey is destined to rust, highlighting death and decay as the culmination of its beautiful life cycle, and ending with themes of transformation, suffering, and peace.