Making Sense of Colour Theory
Color theory is an essential part of any art form, and watercolor painting is no exception. Understanding the basics of color theory can help you create beautiful works of art that are full of depth and nuance. In this post, we'll explore the basics of color theory and how you can use it to create stunning watercolor paintings.
Learning about color theory and experimenting with different color combinations will help you in advancing your skills as an artist
The Basics of Color Theory
The primary colors in color theory are red, yellow, and blue. These colors cannot be created by mixing other colors together. Secondary colors, such as green, purple, and orange, are created by mixing two primary colors together. Tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color.
The Color Wheel
A color wheel for artists looks confusing at first, but is a very handy tool for anyone looking to understand pigments better
The color wheel is a tool that can help you visualize how colors relate to one another. It is made up of the primary colors, secondary colors, and tertiary colors. Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel are complementary colors. When used together, they create a high contrast and can make each other appear more vibrant. You can start out by looking at a basic color wheel or see how color wheels for artist include the many different pigments and colors we use like this one as seen on www.handprint.com
Mixing Colors in Watercolor Painting
One of the joys of watercolor painting is the ability to mix colors together to create new hues and tones. To mix colors, start with a clean palette and a clean brush. Add a small amount of each color you want to mix to the palette. Then, using the brush, mix the colors together until you achieve the desired hue. Add more water if the color is too intense, or add more paint if it's too pale.
Tips for Mixing Colors in Watercolor Painting
Here are some tips to keep in mind when mixing colors in watercolor painting:
Start with the lightest color and add darker colors gradually. This will help you achieve a more subtle effect.
Use small amounts of paint at first. You can always add more later.
Use a color chart to keep track of the colors you've mixed. This will help you recreate the color if you need to.
Experiment with different combinations of colors. You never know what you might discover!
Color theory is an essential part of watercolor painting, but it doesn't have to be intimidating. By understanding the basics of color theory and experimenting with different color combinations, you can create beautiful works of art that are full of depth and vibrancy. So grab your watercolor paints and have some fun exploring the world of color!
