Module 4: "Color Principles"
  Lecture 10: "Introduction to the Science of Color"
 

 

Color theory encompasses large number of definitions, concepts, and design applications. As an introduction, here are a few basic concepts.

Source Fig. 2B: http://kaufmann-mercantile.com/johannes-itten/ ; May 30, 2012)

Plate2 A The Color Wheel Plate2 B & C Johannes Itten, 1944

Source Fig. 2B: http://kaufmann-mercantile.com/johannes-itten/ ; May 30, 2012)

A color circle, based on the Primary Colors- red, yellow, and blue, is traditional in the field of art that uses pigments. Color Wheel is a conventional circular arrangement of colors. Since Newton’s time scientists and artists have studied and designed numerous variations of this concept. John Itten, while teaching at the Bauhaus, had developed exercises on color. The above color compositions (plate2 B & C) are interesting exercises that he developed based on the primary and secondary colors. The intensity of colors separate one from other and may create ‘color dimensions. In his compositions it clearly shows while certain colors proceed forward some recedes back. The hues of primary and secondary colors created excellent depth field.