Color theory is the study of colors and the effects they have on human perception. It's a crucial aspect in various fields, including art, design, and psychology. Understanding color theory can help you make better design decisions and communicate more effectively.
Basic Color Concepts
- Primary Colors: Red, Blue, and Yellow. These colors cannot be created by mixing other colors.
- Secondary Colors: Orange, Green, and Purple. These colors are created by mixing two primary colors.
- Tertiary Colors: Red-Orange, Yellow-Orange, Yellow-Green, Blue-Green, Blue-Violet, and Red-Violet. These colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color.
Color Schemes
- Monochromatic: Using different shades and tones of a single color.
- Complementary: Using two colors that are directly opposite each other on the color wheel.
- Analogous: Using three colors that are next to each other on the color wheel.
Color Psychology
Colors can evoke different emotions and feelings. For example:
- Red: Represents passion, energy, and danger.
- Blue: Associated with calmness, trust, and stability.
- Green: Symbolizes nature, growth, and renewal.
Further Reading
For more in-depth information about color theory, check out our comprehensive guide on Color Theory Basics.
Color Wheel