Colour theory is the study of how colours interact with each other. It is also how they can be combined to create pleasing visual compositions. Here are some basics of colour theory and links to emotions.
Colour and emotion are closely linked, as different shades can evoke different emotional responses. Here are some common emotions associated with different colours.
The emotions connected to colour
- Red: Red is often associated with passion, energy, and excitement. It can also be associated with anger and danger.
- Orange: Orange is associated with warmth, friendliness, and enthusiasm. It can also be associated with caution.
- Yellow: Yellow is associated with happiness, optimism, and creativity. It can also be associated with caution or warning.
- Green: Green is associated with nature, growth, and harmony. It can also be associated with envy or jealousy.
- Blue: Blue is associated with calmness, trust, and reliability. It can also be associated with sadness.
- Purple: Purple is associated with luxury, creativity, and spirituality. It can also be associated with mystery or ambiguity.
- Pink: Pink is associated with love, femininity, and sweetness.
- Brown: Brown is associated with earthiness, stability, and warmth.
- Gray: Gray is associated with neutrality, calmness, and sophistication.
- Black: Black is associated with power, elegance, and mystery. It can also be associated with negativity and mourning.
It’s important to note that colour and emotion can vary depending on cultural and personal experiences.
Basics of Colour Theory
- Primary: There are three primary colours: red, blue, and yellow. These cannot be made by mixing other colours.
- Secondary: Secondary colours are created by mixing two primary. The three secondary colours are green (a mix of blue and yellow), orange (a mix of red and yellow), and purple (a mix of blue and red).
- Tertiary: These are created by mixing a primary with a secondary colour. There are six tertiary colours: red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-purple, and red-purple.
- Colour Wheel: This is a tool that shows the relationship between shades and hues. It consists of the primary, secondary, and tertiary arranged in a circle.
- Complementary: Complementary colours are opposite each other on the colour wheel. They create high contrast when used together and can make each other appear brighter.
- Analogous: They are next to each other on the colour wheel. They create a harmonious schemes and are often found in nature.
- Warm and Cool: Colours can be divided into two groups: warm and cool. Warm such as red and yellow, are associated with energy and excitement. Cool such as blue and green, are associated with calmness and tranquillity.
- Colour Harmony: This refers to the pleasing combination of colours in a composition. There are many different colour harmonies, such as monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and triadic.
