An introduction to colour theory and colour relationships

Why/where use the element? This theory is relevant to any creative activity in which colour is used, whether painting, printmaking, photography, textiles or even looking at and appreciating art.

How to use the element

In order to absorb the principles of colour theory the most useful thing to do is to draw up your own colour circle in whatever medium you choose and do some basic colour exercises, grading colours, and doing swatches of complementary, contrasting, and accented colours in your note or sketchbook for reference.  There are some excellent books available on the subject for those wanting a deeper understanding of this important background to colour.

PRIMARY COLOURS

The basic three primary colours are red, blue and yellow.

SECONDARY COLOURS

A secondary colour is a mixture of its two adjacent primary colours in the colour wheel.  For example, blue and yellow produce green.

COMPLIMENTARY COLOURS

A combination of complementary colours is produced from the relationship between a primary colour and the secondary colour in the wheel, which is in a diametrically opposed position to it.  In theory, but not in practice, the mixing of two complementary colours should produce a completely neutral result in the right proportions hence the name, complementary.

CONTRASTING COLOURS

A contrasting colour relationship is produced by the inclusion of two primaries or two secondary colours, which are separated by one-third of the colour wheel.

SIMILAR COLOURS

Similar colours are the combination of a primary colour and the secondary colour, which is adjacent to it on the colour wheel.  It is important to ensure that the colours employed do not stray too close each other on the colour wheel to become the same colour.

ACCENTED COLOUR

The accenting colour should be a strong contrast or complement to the principle area of the image and by occupying only a small but significant spot can create a spark of colour, which acts as a catalyst to create energy in the composition.

TONES

Black through shades of grey to white are not colours and should not play a principal role in colour relationships although they may figure in a lesser capacity.

Recommended book references

The Elements of Color: A Treatise on the Color System of Johannes Itten. Based on his book “The Art of Color”-  Hardcover (31 Jan 1970) by Johannes Itten

Colour Mixing Bible (Paperback) by Ian Sidaway (Author)

Basic Colour: A Practical Handbook (Paperback) by Jane De Sausmarez (Author)