Module 1

COLOUR THEORY

VISUAL ARTS SHIVANGI BISWAS

COLOUR THEORY
Colour theory is a fundamental concept in graphic design that explores
the principles and effects of colour combinations. It encompasses the
study of colour harmony, colour psychology, and the visual perception
of colours. Understanding colour theory allows designers to make
informed choices when selecting colour palettes, creating visual
hierarchy, and evoking speci ic emotions or responses in their designs.

Colour theory is both the science and art of using colour. It explains
how humans perceive colour; and the visual effects of how colours mix,
match or contrast with each other. Color theory also involves the
messages colours communicate; and the methods used to replicate
colour .

Colour is perception. Our eyes see something (the sky, for example),
and data sent from our eyes to our brains tells us it’s a certain colour
(blue). Objects re lect light in different combinations of wavelengths.
Our brains pick up on those wavelength combinations and translate
them into the phenomenon we call colour.
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 COLOUR BASICS
Colours are a visual sensation created by the brain in response to different wavelengths of light.
When light strikes an object, certain wavelengths are absorbed, while others are re lected. The
re lected wavelengths are what we perceive as colour.

The colour wheel is a circular arrangement of colours that helps

illustrate their relationships. It's a useful tool for understanding
colour harmonies and contrasts.
Primary Colors: These are colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors.
In the RGB model, red, green, and blue are primary colors. In the CMY(K) model,
cyan, magenta, and yellow are primary colors.

Secondary Colors: These are created by mixing two primary colors together. In
the RGB model, mixing red and green creates yellow, green and blue create cyan,
and red and blue create magenta. In the CMY(K) model, mixing cyan and magenta
creates blue, magenta and yellow create red, and cyan and yellow create green.

Tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. For
example, mixing red (primary) with orange (secondary) creates red-orange,
which is a tertiary color.
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PROPERTIES OF COLOUR
Warm Colors: These are colors like red, orange, and
yellow. They are associated with warmth, energy, and
vibrancy.

Cool Colors: These are colors like blue, green, and purple.
They are associated with calmness, tranquility, and a
sense of coolness.

Hue: The basic color itself (e.g., red, blue, green) without
considering its intensity or brightness.

Saturation: Also known as chroma, it refers to the

intensity or purity of a color. Fully saturated colors are
vivid, while desaturated colors are more muted.

Value/Brightness: The lightness or darkness of a color.

Adding white or black to a color changes its value.
 COLOUR
HARMONY
Colour harmony refers to the pleasing arrangement of colours in a design that creates a sense of balance,
unity, and visual appeal. Achieving colour harmony involves understanding how different colours interact,
both in terms of their relationships on the colour wheel and their emotional and psychological effects on
viewers. Here's a more detailed explanation of colour harmony:

Analogous Harmony: Involves using colours that are adjacent to each other on the colour wheel. This
creates a smooth and harmonious transition between colours. For example, using shades of blue, blue-
green, and green together in a design.

Complementary Harmony: Involves pairing colours that are directly opposite each other on the colour
wheel. This creates a high-contrast effect and makes each colour appear more vibrant. For example,
combining red and green or blue and orange.

Triadic Harmony: Involves selecting three colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel. This
creates a balanced and dynamic composition. For example, using red, yellow, and blue together.

Split Complementary Harmony: This is a variation of complementary harmony. Instead of using just one
complementary colour, you use the two colours adjacent to its complement. For instance, pairing blue with
yellow-orange and red-orange.

Tetradic Harmony (Double Complementary): Involves using two pairs of complementary colours, creating a
complex but balanced palette. This can be challenging to execute well, but it can result in visually
interesting designs.

Monochromatic Harmony: Involves using different shades, tints, and tones of a single colour. While
this doesn't provide strong contrast, it offers a sense of unity and can create a soothing effect.
 CREATING EFFECTIVE
COLOUR HARMONY:
Dominant Colour: Choose a dominant colour that sets the tone
for your design. This colour can be used for key elements to
create focus and hierarchy.
Accent Colors: Use secondary colours as accents to support the
dominant colour. These can be used for call-to-action buttons,
highlights, or secondary text.
Proportion: Decide how much of each colour to use. The
dominant colour should appear more prominently, while accent
colours can be used sparingly for emphasis.
Balance: Achieve a balanced distribution of colours throughout
the design. Avoid overcrowding with too many different colours.
Context and Mood: Consider the context of the design and the
emotional response you want to evoke. Warm colours might be
suitable for energetic designs, while cool colours could be
better for calming or professional layouts.
 COLOUR
PSYCHOLOGY
Colour psychology explores how colours can in luence
human emotions, perceptions, and behaviors. Different
colours evoke distinct psychological and emotional
responses, making them a powerful tool in various contexts,
including marketing, design, branding, and even therapy.
Here's a detailed explanation of colour psychology:
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 EMOTIONAL
ASSOCIATIONS:
Red: Often associated with passion, love, energy, and urgency. It can also stimulate
appetite and create a sense of excitement or danger.

Blue: Represents calmness, trust, stability, and intelligence. It can evoke a sense of peace
and is commonly used to convey professionalism.

Yellow: Symbolizes happiness, optimism, and warmth. It can attract attention and convey a
cheerful and friendly atmosphere.

Green: Associated with nature, growth, and freshness. It can also symbolize wealth and
balance.

Orange: Evokes enthusiasm, creativity, and vitality. It can also stimulate appetite and grab
attention.

Purple: Represents luxury, spirituality, and creativity. It can evoke a sense of elegance and
mystery.

Pink: Often associated with femininity, sweetness, and compassion. Lighter shades of pink
can have a calming effect.

Brown: Symbolizes stability, reliability, and comfort. It can create a sense of warmth and
earthiness.