I was honored to be selected as one of eight exhibitors at Google XI’s recent experiential conference, held at Pier 57 in New York City. Google XI is a division of Google dedicated to exploring and developing spaces that accommodate the array of differences in our learning styles and perspectives in order to maximize their inclusivity.

Using the synesthetic philosophy reflected in my book Ode to Color, I worked with Google to create a multi-sensory exhibit based on the 10 color worlds in the book. Each world was interpreted in scent, taste, smell and sight, with a view to emphasize the sensory associations and impacts of color.

Many of the attendees at the conference took the color test, comprised of 18 questions, developed to identify the color world or worlds that may best suit their home and work interiors and enhance their moods. You can take my Ode to Color test here.

I worked with musicians Mikey Enwright and Jason Myers on instrumental short pieces that translated the feeling and aura of each color world into music. Link to Jason’s website here and Mikey’s website here.

I was fortunate to work with the brilliant minds and noses at the prestigious French fragrance house Mane in developing scents that captured the essence of each color world. The company provided the formulas for each color world-based scent to the conference participants. You can learn more about Mane here.

Each exhibitor gave a talk about their contributions to the conference. Mine focused on how color and texture can influence how we feel in a space. I concluded with some design recommendations to inspire audience members in planning their next events, conferences, and work spaces.

Google’s accomplished chef’s prepared meals that masterfully reflected three of the color worlds – Night Shadows, Whisper, and Fragrant Woods.

Google Xi Days was an incredible experience. I learned so much from other talented presenters and attendees and it was thrilling to see Ode to Color come to life in this way!

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