Encompassing a set of principles, essential colour theory guides artists in their use of colours and is all about understanding the psychological relationship between an artist and their work.
Colour theory isn’t just about mixing colours; it is about providing a framework for understanding how colours interact, influence emotions, and enhance artistic expression.
The History of Essential Colour Theory
Early explorations by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci – Leonardo da Vinci – Wikipedia – laid the foundations of how colours influence choice, whilst polymath Goethe – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe – Wikipedia – and French chemist, Michel Chevreul – Michel Eugène Chevreul – Wikipedia – later expanded on the idea that colour has profound psychological significance.
The Colour Wheel – Color wheel – Wikipedia – dating back to Isaac Newton’s work on colour and light, the colour wheel is Newton’s fundamental tool that organises colours into primary, secondary and tertiary categories.
This visual representation helps artists understand essential colour theory and how the harmonious colour schemes combine to make works of art so aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
The divisions of Newton’s circle are of unequal size, being based on a Dorian musical scale – What Is The Dorian Mode: A Complete Guide. Colour scientists and psychologists often use the addictive primaries – What are the additive primary and subtractive colors? – red, green, and blue, and refer to their arrangement around a colour circle as opposed to a colour wheel.
Colour Relationships – Artists use colour relationships to create visual interest with the intention of gaining an emotional response.
Essential colour theory suggests that an emotional response can be achieved by using colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel (complementary colours), analogous colours that are next to each other, and three colours that are evenly spaced around the wheel (triadic colours).
Psychological Effects – When arranged in a certain manner, colours can create an emotional response and evoke specific reactions. Blues can convey calmness – this is why establishments that sell alcohol are encouraged to use blue lighting, as opposed to reds, which can evoke a passionate response.
When artists understand these effects, they can manipulate colours to enhance the mood of their work.
Mixing Colours – an artist can create a wide range of shades and tones by learning how to mix colours effectively. Factors such as hue, saturation, and value must be considered.
Practical Application – to achieve balance, contrast and unity in compositions, artists can guide the viewer’s eye using the practical application of colour schemes.
Colour theory isn’t just theoretical; it has practical applications in creating works of art.
Colour Theory in Conclusion
Mastering colour theory is crucial for effective visual communication. Artists must understand how colours interact and influence perception.
Engaging with essential colour theory enhances the creative process, allowing for greater artistic freedom whilst helping to develop a deeper understanding of colour and its impact.
For more details about my theory of colour, please see my gallery –About Kate Fletcher | Nottingham Artist | Watercolours