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How to perfect the art of combining colors?
Strategies for choosing colors combinations that work.
Do you need to be intuitive to pick colors that work?
Or is possible to develop strategies we use again and again?
Luckily the answer is yes.
This is what is known as color theory.
So, what is color theory exactly?
Color theory is a combination of art and science. It utilizes the color wheel to enable us to create harmonious color palettes.
The color wheel was invented way back in 1666 by Issac Newton, who mapped the color spectrum onto a circle.
So how do we use the color wheel?
The color wheel forms the basis of color theory. It shows the relationship between all the available color options. By using some simple rules we can create color combinations to achieve the effect that we want.
Two different types of color wheel
There are two types of the color wheel.
- The RYB (red, yellow, blue color wheel)
- The RGB (red, green and blue color wheel)
RYB: This color wheel is mainly used by artists.
RGB: While this color wheel is designed for online use, as it refers to mixing light — like on a laptop or online device. Hence, why this wheel is most useful for digital design and creative work developed for screens.
What are these rules and how can we use them?
There are five different color combinations, and each of these is underpinned by selecting specific colors from certain positions on the color wheel.
The Five Color combinations 1. Complementary
2. Monochromatic
3. Analogous
4. Triadic
5. Tetradic
Complementary
Rule: Select two colors that are on opposite sides of the color wheel.
Effect: High contrast, bright, prominent and perfect for when you want to create impact.
