Palette Deep Dive: Red
Red isn’t just a color - it’s a statement. It’s bold, passionate, and impossible to ignore. But it’s also got a story that stretches back thousands of years. And in this new series, “Palette Deep Dive” we’re taking a closer look at the stories, symbolism, and impact of the colors that inspire both art and design. From historical significance to contemporary trends, each installment will explore how a single hue can shape creativity, culture, and style. So, let's talk RED.
Getty Images featuring Mark Rothko
The Legacy of Red
Imagine our prehistoric ancestors, 20,000 years ago, using red ochre to bring cave walls to life with bison and other animals. That same boldness carried through ancient civilizations: in Egypt, red symbolized life and victory; in Rome, it was a color of power and authority; and in China, red was—and still is—considered lucky, appearing in festivals, weddings, and celebrations.
Fast forward to the Renaissance, and red became a favorite storytelling tool in art. Caravaggio draped his saints in red to capture emotion and focus attention, while van Eyck used it to symbolize passion and divine presence. By the 20th century, artists like Henri Matisse and Mark Rothko were exploring red in entirely new ways—Matisse for warmth and harmony, Rothko for raw emotional intensity. Red wasn’t just a pigment—it was feeling, drama, and depth all rolled into one.
Red in Fashion and Design Today
And the story of red isn’t stuck in history—it’s trending right now. Fall 2025 is seeing a resurgence of deep reds, from rich burgundies to vibrant scarlets. Designers like Altuzarra and Calvin Klein are showcasing red head-to-toe looks, making it a must-have color for the season. Vogue calls it “the color you can’t ignore this fall,” while interior designers are leaning into merlot and oxblood tones to bring warmth and sophistication to living spaces.
Red in Our Gallery
At The Miller Gallery, many of our artists have embraced red in powerful ways. Take a look at how living contemporary and modern artists are utilizing red in paintings, sculpture and photography.
"Love Potion No. 9" by Kristin Shearer, 41.5" x 31.5", $1700
"Girl Dinner" by Rachael Nerney Reese, 36" x 36", $3200
"Portal, Vermillion" by Sara Lundkvist, 8" x 7", $425
"Dress Bow Red" by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, 13.5" x 13.5", $610
"Automatic" by Charlotte Filbert, 40" x 40", $5500
"Cherry Bomb" by Emily Meisler, 14" x 10" x 4", $1150
"The Jaguar" by Kate Hooray Osmond, 26" x 26", $3250
"Where The Red Maple Grows" by Michael James Cisarik, 18" x 24", $725
"Flutter Symposium 3" by Sally Bunting, 20" x 20", $785
"Charleston Express Close Up" by Station 28.5 Photography, Available in varying sizes and prices
Red is more than a trend—it’s a feeling, a statement, and a color that invites you to slow down, engage, and experience. This fall, let red inspire your wardrobe, your space, and your perspective.
Discover the power of red for yourself—explore our collection online or visit The Miller Gallery to see these stunning works in person.
Open Monday through Friday from 10AM to 4PM at 1640 Meeting Street Road Suite 102, Charleston, SC. Private appointments are available upon request.