Color Theory
- 1. Color Theory
- 2. What is color?A ray of light is the source of all colorIt is perceived by the eye and interpreted by the brainIt is an internal sensation expressed when colored light waves stimulate the eye
- 3. What is Color Theory?A system of rules and guidance for mixing various colors, in order to:Create visually pleasing designsProduce maximum readability & clarityUse cultural associations to effect meaning
- 4. The Color WheelThe basic tool we use when working with color
- 5. Primary ColorsRed, Yellow & Blue
- 6. Secondary ColorsOrange, green and purpleMade by mixing equal amounts of two primary colors
- 7. Tertiary ColorsRed-orange, red-violet, blue-green, blue-violet, yellow-green, and yellow-orangeMade by mixing an equal amount of a primary color and a secondary color
- 8. Neutral ColorsAre colors not found on the color wheelWhite, black, grey, brown, beige, tan, and cream
- 9. Warm ColorsReds, yellows, and orangesCreate feelings of warmth, activity, and excitement
- 10. Cool ColorsBlues, purples, and greensCreate feelings of coolness, calmness, and relaxation
- 11. Warm and Cool Colors
- 12. Color HarmonyHarmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of parts, whether it is music, poetry, color, or even an ice cream sundae.Something pleasing to the eyeEngages the viewer and creates a sense of order – balanceIf it’s not harmonious – it’s boring!However, too much can be chaotic – the viewer can’t stand to look at it!
- 13. Analogous ColorsAny three colors which are side by side on the 12 part color wheelUsually one of the color predominates
- 14. Complementary colors Any two colors which are directly opposite each other, such as red and green and red-purple, and yellow-green.Here there are several variations of yellow-green in the leaves and several variations of red-purple in the orchid. These opposing colors create maximum contrast and maximum stability.
- 15. ConclusionColor theoryColor wheelPrimary, Secondary, & Tertiary colorsNeutral, Warm & Cool colorsColor HarmonyAnalogous & Complementary colors
- 16. Lindsey M. ShepardGraduate StudentThe University of Southern [email protected]