Colour theory Colour theory encompasses a multitude of definitions, concepts and design applications. As an introduction, here are a few basic concepts. A colour circle, based on red, yellow and blue, is traditional in the field of art. Sir Isaac Newton developed the first circular diagram of colours in 1666. Primary colours – red, yellow and blue. In traditional colour theory, these are the 3 pigment colours that can not be mixed or formed by any combination of other colours. All other colours are derived from these 3 hues. Secondary colours – green, orange and purple. These are the colours formed by mixing the primary colours. Tertiary colours – yellow-orange, redorange, red-purple, blue-purple, blue-green and yellow-green. These are the colours formed by mixing one primary and one secondary colour. Colour harmony There are many theories for harmony. Here are some basic formulas. 1) A colour scheme based on analogous colours. Analogous colours are any three colours which are side by side on a 12 part colour wheel, such as yellow-green, yellow, and yelloworange. Usually one of the three colours predominates. 2) A colour scheme based on complementary colours. Complementary colours are any two colours which are directly opposite each other, such as red and green and red-purple and yellow-green. 3) A colour scheme based on nature. Nature provides a perfect departure point for colour harmony. When you choose a colour scheme, you’re also choosing a mood. Research shows that colours can have a powerful effect on your state of mind: choose the wrong colour for a room and it could make you feel depressed, sluggish, irritable or anxious every time you walk into it. To make your home work for you, it’s a good idea to decide which particular feelings and activities you’d like each room to encourage, and then choose your colour schemes accordingly. White provides a blank canvas and allows your feelings full play. Choose it, if you want to feel open to new ideas and need space to think. Avoid it, if you’re feeling unsure or insecure. Like those one-size clothes, cream fits everyone but only really suits a few. Choose it as a calm backdrop to an intense lifestyle. Avoid it, if you feel uninteresting or lacking in sparkle. Red is a stimulating colour if you’re confident and versatile, overpowering if you’re not. Bright reds spell sexiness. Choose it, if you’re an extrovert in all areas of life. Avoid it, if you tire easily, often feel pressured or irritable or if you suffer from claustrophobia. Orange is impulsive and friendly. It is often chosen by fatalists who take life as it comes. Choose it if you’re outgoing and want to create a sociable atmosphere. Avoid it if you’re under stress. Pink blends caring and passion, hence its romantic associations. Choose it in warm shades for the bedroom. Avoid it in cool pastel tones, if you don’t want to blunt your drive and energy. Yellow is the colour of sunshine and optimism. Yellow is the choice of those who want to compensate for a lack of control in the outside world. Choose it, if you’re feeling depressed or mentally sluggish. Avoid it, if you tend to be impulsive or slapdash. Green is extremely restful and can have a deadening effect in activity areas. Choose it, if you’re introverted or bookish. Avoid it, if you’re lethargic or withdrawn. Turquoise combines a soothing effect with a great sense of renewal and energy. Choose it to promote positive relaxation and to help fight insomnia. Avoid it: hardly ever. Such a wellbalanced colour can be used anywhere. Blue appeals to conventional and conformist types. Choose it to bring relaxation and harmony, to calm a driven nature. Avoid it, if you feel passive and unambitious about life. Violet is a spiritual and meditative colour. Paler shades indicate emotional immaturity. Choose it, if you’re extrovert and to create grand impressions. Avoid it, if you’re an introvert in any way. Brown is colour of achievement, but it can be depressing if the shade is too dark. Choose it, if you’re insecure, but lighten it with bright colour accents. Avoid it, if you’re easily depressed. Black is ultimate achievement colour. For those whose lives and personalities are completely formed. Choose it, if you’re assured and successful or well on the way there. Avoid it, if you’re low on self-confidence or anxious in any way. Grey expresses achievement if used in darker tones. Lighter ones suggest a need to impress. Choose it in small quantities to make a confident statement. Avoid it over large areas, if you feel uninspired. 1. Answer the questions: 1) What groups of colours are there according to the colour theory? 2) How can you define the word “harmony”? 3) Why is harmony vital in our world? 4) Give an example of a harmonious colour scheme. 5) What colours make you feel secure, confident, calm? 6) Which of the above mentioned colours inspire energy, passion, friendliness, optimism? 7) What is your favourite colour? Why?