Basic Theory of Colors

The naming of both secondary and primary colors and recognizing the same on color wheel is the basic theory of colors. The color wheel is based on the harmony of colors. Here are the basics of the theory of colors, with some color terms which are widely used.

What Are Secondary & Primary Colors?

The color theory is generally based on the application and study of primary colors. Yellow, red and blue are three primary colors. With proper mixing, these primary colors can create other visible colors. This is why they are generally applied in combination. Blue color is applied with balancing hues to improve natural power of its appearance. In the blue period of Picasso period, the painting of Monochromatic blue                                                    color symbolizes loss and sadness. But some researches prove that blue color controls hunger of the people. In addition, it symbolizes energy and makes people active.

On the other side, green, purple and orange are secondary colors. The color wheel can be completed with the combination of both primary and secondary colors.

Tertiary Colors

These colors are known to stand among the secondary and primary colors, which include blue-green, yellow-green and red-violet shades. 

Analogous & Complementary Colors

You can determine the harmony of colors with color wheel. Complementary colors are those which are located with one another directly on color wheel, such as yellow and blue colors. Analogous colors are usually present in sequence of 3 different shades or colors on color wheel, such as red, orange and red-orange.

Neutrals

Neutrals basically are white, brown, black and gray colors.

Cool & Warm Colors

Colors are usually categorized in cool and warm shades. On the color wheel, right part is usually occupied with warm colors. Warm colors are yellow-green and red colors. Cool colors are basically, green and reddish purple and they are present usually on left part. 

Commonly Used Terms

“Hue” is the commonly-known term which represents, red, blue, green and other colors. “Value” is the term which represents brightness of the color and it is usually determined from 1 to 10 on the scale.