We explain what color theory is and what the properties of color are. We also explain the RYB, RGB, and CMYK color models.
What is Color Theory?
Color theory is a set of basic rules that guide the mixing, interaction, properties, and perception of colors. This theory is fundamental to various disciplines, including graphic design, painting, photography, printing, and audiovisual production.
There is no single color theory, but rather a set of approaches to color and its dynamics. Many of them are part of the history of art and optics (a branch of physics) and have been developed by various scientists and artists. Must Read About Comparative Table Once.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Color Wheel
One of the main elements of color theory is the color wheel. It is a circular graphic representation that displays the colors of the spectrum in an organized sequence, based on the relationships between them.
The color wheel is usually arranged so that complementary colors face each other and analogous colors are located next to each other. It also distinguishes primary or pure colors from their derivatives, which are combinations of them.
Color Attributes
Color is attributed the following properties:
- Hue: Also called tone, this is the essential characteristic that allows one color to be distinguished from another. The tone or hue is present on the color wheel and is named after the color itself. For example: violet, blue, yellow.
- Lightness: Also called value, this refers to the amount of light present in a color, that is, its level of lightness (close to white) or darkness (close to black).
- Saturation: This is the intensity or purity of a color. It refers to the amount of gray with which it is mixed. The more gray, the less pure the color and the lower its saturation; conversely, the less gray, the greater the purity and saturation.
RYB Color Model
The RYB (red, yellow, blue) color model has been used since the 18th century to mix and create colors. It was proposed by Isaac Newton based on the idea that three primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) could be mixed to produce all other colors. It is a subtractive model, meaning that as pigments or inks are applied, light is subtracted, resulting in black.
RGB Color Model
The RGB color model gets its name from its primary colors: red, green, and blue, from which the rest are composed. It is an additive color system, meaning that each color combination adds light until white is reached, which combines all the colors in the spectrum. This system is used in display devices such as televisions, computer monitors, and video projectors, among others.
CMYK Color Model
The CMYK model takes its name from its primary colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (with black designated by a K for key plate).
This is a subtractive model, which creates color by absorbing light, so the color mixture tends toward black, which is the total absence of light. It is used for printing techniques, since paper lacks the light-receiving properties of monitors or projectors. This is why, when working in digital print design programs, the conversion from RGB to CMYK must be performed. Must Read About Sport Once.
Applications of Color Theory
Color theory allows for the strategic use of colors to create specific visual effects. It is a tool that makes it possible to select and generate harmonious color combinations and is used in a wide variety of disciplines, such as:
- Graphic design: Color theory is applied to create visual materials such as logos, infographics, and websites.
- Marketing and advertising: Color theory is used to choose tones that can influence consumer purchasing decisions.
- Architecture and interior design: Color theory is used to convey specific sensations (energy, warmth, freshness) through color in spaces and the elements that comprise them.
- Fashion design: Color theory is applied to create visually appealing combinations in clothing and accessories.
- Audiovisual arts: Color theory is used to create atmospheres and evoke emotions in scenes and shots.
- Visual arts: Color theory is fundamental in the visual arts to harmonize or contrast elements in a work.
- Psychology: Color theory is used in a branch of psychology called color psychology, which studies how the presence of color can influence perception and mood.
Color Theory in History
In his 1704 work, Optics, or a Treatise on the Reflections, Refractions, Inflections, and Colors of Light, Isaac Newton described the results of his experiments on the decomposition of the visible spectrum into its component colors. In this treatise, he proposed that the primary or pure colors were red, yellow, and blue, and that all other colors were created by mixing them. This proposal gave rise to the RYB model, which is still used in the visual arts.
In 1810, the famous German writer, philosopher, and naturalist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) published a treatise called The Theory of Colors. This work was based on the principles previously developed by Newton and reflected on the nature of colors and how to perceive them. In his book, Goethe proposed and popularized a color wheel with red, yellow, and blue as primary colors, and green, orange, and violet as secondary colors.
Later, at the beginning of the 20th century, the German chemist and philosopher Wilhelm Ostwald (1853-1932) formulated a theory that described color based on psychological perception. Unlike other color theories, Ostwald’s was based on subjective experience and divided colors into cool and warm.
Thus, Ostwald proposed a wheel composed of 24 shades and placed warm colors (from red to yellow) on the left side and cool colors (from blue to violet) on the right side. This distinction is still used in many disciplines, such as design, psychology, and marketing. Must Read About Black Consciousness Day Once.
References
All the information we offer is supported by authoritative and up-to-date bibliographic sources, which ensure reliable content in line with our editorial principles.
- Albers, J. (2010). The Interaction of Color. Alliance.
- Nassau, K. (2024). Colour. Encyclopedia Britannica. britannica.com
