Week 3 (Color Theory)

Color

Plays a vital role in design and everyday life.

Color Theory

Guidelines that explain how colors relate to each other and how to use them effectively in design.

Primary Colors

Colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors; traditionally red, yellow, and blue.

Secondary Colors

Colors created by mixing two primary colors; for example, red and yellow make orange.

Color Wheel

A circular diagram of colors arranged by their chromatic relationship.

Hue

Another term for color; refers to the pure spectrum colors.

Saturation

The intensity or purity of a color; measures how subtle or vibrant a color appears.

Value

The lightness or darkness of a color, ranging from black to white.

Monochromatic Color Scheme

A color scheme that uses variations in one color's hue, saturation, and value.

Analogous Color Scheme

A color scheme using colors next to each other on the color wheel.

Complementary Colors

Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel; create high contrast.

Split-Complementary Color Scheme

A color scheme that uses one base color and two adjacent colors to its complement.

Triadic Color Scheme

A color scheme that uses three colors evenly spaced around the color wheel.

Tetradic Color Scheme

A complex color scheme using two complementary color pairs.

Readability in Color Design

Ensuring colors in a design are legible and easy on the eyes.

Neutral Colors

Colors like black, white, and gray that can help balance designs.

Tone in Color

The emotional or psychological message conveyed by a color.

Desaturated Colors

Colors that have been muted or toned down, often appearing more professional.

Color Palette

A set of colors selected for a particular design project.

Contrast

The difference between the lightest and darkest parts of a color scheme.

Color Inspiration

Finding color ideas from various sources like nature, art, and design.

Color Combinations

The selection of colors that work well together in design.

Experimentation in Color Use

The process of trying different colors and combinations to achieve desired effects.

Contextual Use of Color

Choosing colors based on the specific situation or message to be conveyed.

Vibrant Colors

Bright and intense colors that convey energy and excitement.

Calm Colors

Soft and muted colors that evoke a sense of peace and tranquility.

Color Accessibility

Considering how color choices can be viewed by individuals with color blindness.