Purple Origin
Unveiling the eco-impact of a royal hue
"Purple Origin" explores the historical and environmental journey of Tyrian purple dye, transforming its creation from Murex snails into a visceral experience that highlights the balance between luxury, technological advancement, and nature preservation.
In today's age of intense material consumption and heightened climateconsciousness, this work explores the tale of purple’s origin by transformingit into a tangible and visceral experience.Beyond recounting purple’s richhistory, it shapes an experience that confronts the dichotomy of progress andpreservation. Tyrian purple, first made by Phoenicians in the 16th century BCEfrom sea snails, was so expensive only royalty could afford it. Requiring 2,500snails for one gram, it was worth more than gold. In 1856, chemistWilliam Henry Perkin accidentally synthesized a purple dye, making it widelyaccessible and saving countless snails. This transformation symbolizes advancements in technology and ourevolving relationship with nature. As visitors immerse themselves in Purple Origin,they are prompted to ponder the cost of luxury, the value of sustainablealternatives, and our ever-present responsibility to protect and revere thedelicate balance of nature’s treasures.