Basic Color Theory

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This section introduces the elementary vocabulary that is essential in designing with color. Many students don't realize there are many THEORIES of Color that we utilize in the visual communication field. Color Theories change based on how an illustration, photograph, or design will be seen, printed or even where & how often. Without a solid foundation of Basic Color Theory, you will not be strong at utilizing the next theories. 
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~ BASIC COLOR WHEEL ~
Project Sheet PDF
 

Competency: 
#306-3 - Produce illustrations using various media - Colored Pencils

#307 - Illustrate using value

#323 - Utilize proportion wheel

#402 - Apply appropriate color schemes to generate design solutions

#420 - Demonstrate theoretical points of Basic Color Theory

#421 - Utilize traditional color theory concepts and terminology 

#611 - Execute knowledge of basic math, proportions, and measurements

Objective: 
• Utilizing water colors, the paper wheel provided, traditional color theory concepts and terminology, the student will paint a basic 12-step color wheel to the criteria detailed in the PDF. 

• Given an assigned acrylic paint color, direction & demonstration, the student will paint swatches of a full monochromatic value scale to be cut & designed into a creative design that showcases knowledge of all the elements of design to the criteria listed on the project sheet.

Project: 
1st - Please follow careful directions from the demonstration & then guided application to paint the BEST color wheel. Please remember, it doesn't matter how many times it may take you to master your perfect color wheel. Concentrate on both the correct way to use the water colors as well as all the vocabulary we have gone over.

2nd - Please meticulously follow all measurements & directions from our guided application (demonstration) to layout your template for the Restricted Color Project. As a group, we will all be practicing the correct use of the drafting equipment, reviewing measurements as well as Color Theory Vocabulary which is ALL necessary for the Final Restricted Color Project. This Final will be done on supplied Vellum Bristol Board.

Key Points
From Class Lecture & any related Web Sources

• Triad

• Primary

• Secondary

• Tertiary

• Warm vs Cool

• Analogous

• Complimentary

• Monochromatic

• Tint

• Shade

• Neutral Gray

 

http://www.colormatters.com/colortheory.html

http://members.cox.net/mrsparker2/intro.htm