Colour is a constant part of our daily lives. We use it in countless ways in practically all our activities. The interdisciplinary investigation of colour used in this handbook shows that colour is associated with many aspects of society. Colour is not only one of the most important visual tools in our culture today, but it also plays an essential role in the way we function as human beings. According to the Canadian philosopher McLuhan (1911-1980), we wrap ourselves in shells or layers that express our identity. The first layer is our immediate casing, our skin, and this is followed by other extensions such as the clothing and accessories we wear, the interior that we live in and our outside environment. We use these extensions to communicate. They are connected with how we see the world and how the world sees us. Colour is a decisive element in this process. The discussion of the twenty-four-hour perception of colour is based on the idea that colour is a constant factor in our lives. You are in touch with colour right from the first moment of the day: when you wake up, decide what to wear, have breakfast, leave the house, get into the car, bus or train, walk into an office, go shopping, visit a museum, go to a restaurant, take in a movie or simply watch television. Colour has a different role and significance in each domain of our daily lives. What (creative) disciplines stand out in these domains, and what striking and/or decisive examples of colour use are involved? The handbook starts from a European, Western perspective but locates developments specifically within a broad, international framework. The twenty-four-hour perception of colour is visualised pictorially. A textual introduction interweaves this idea with the main themes of the book. In addition, the book is divided into five domains or main themes. Each domain is introduced by a lead article. Displayed within these five domains are creative and commercial disciplines, or subthemes, which are then addressed by means of relevant key texts and case studies.