The Science Behind Color – Part Two

In last week’s blog, we discussed what color actually is and how the eye perceives it. We talked about the science behind color theory and gave our readers a little insight as to why we view colors the ways we do. Today, we’re going to delve even deeper and discuss the psychology of colors and how they can evoke certain emotions.

But First…The Basics

We’ll start with a little experiment. Think of your favorite color. How does it make you feel? What emotions does it produce…inspiration, relaxation, strength? Can you explain why this is the case? Maybe or maybe not.

Some people may choose a color because it complements their hair while others might have a very in-depth response. However, color has been shown to stir up emotions in people. We’ve compiled a list below (along with some great quotes we found!) about the different feelings people have encountered when experiencing colors.

Red

Positive Connotations: Love, passion, determination, power, desire

Negative Connotations: Danger, blood, war, anger

Miscellaneous Example: “When in doubt, wear red.” –Bill Blass

Orange

Positive Connotations: Happiness, enthusiasm, sunsets

Negative Connotations: Deceit, distrust

Miscellaneous Example: “Orange is the happiest color.” –Frank Sinatra

Yellow

Positive Connotations: Exuberance, joy, sunshine, happiness

Negative Connotations: Overstimulation, warnings

Miscellaneous Example: “How wonderful yellow is. It stands for the sun.” –Van Gogh

Green

Positive Connotations: Nature, freshness, new, growth

Negative Connotations: Envy, greed, cowardice

Miscellaneous Example: “Green is the prime color of the world and that from which its loveliness arises.” –Pedro Calderon de la Barca

Blue

Positive Connotations: Tranquility, water, intelligence, freshness

Negative Connotations: Seriousness, sadness

Miscellaneous Example: “I never get tired of the blue sky.” –Van Gogh

Purple

Positive Connotations: Royalty (!!!), independence, ambition, luxury

Negative Connotations: Sadness, gloom, extravagance

Miscellaneous Example: “Purple is the color of my life.” –Delors C. Walker

White

Positive Connotations: Purity, innocence, light, cleanliness

Negative Connotations: Sterility, too boring

Miscellaneous Example: “Never use pure white. It doesn’t exist in nature.” –Aldro T. Hibbard

Black

Positive Connotations: Sophistication, class, modern, power, prestige

Negative Connotations: Darkness, the unknown, fear

Miscellaneous Example: “Women who wear black lead colorful lives.” –Neiman Marcus

Grey

Positive Connotations: Sleekness, modern, cleanliness

Negative Connotations: Sterile, boring, an “in between” feeling

Miscellaneous Example: “The color of truth is grey.” Andre Gide

We hope you’ve enjoyed our little venture into the science behind color. Color is one of our favorite parts about painting, as it gives us a chance to go bold and try new things! From your favorite color or an accent piece in a complementary color, Royalty can paint it all! Give us a call today for your complimentary consultation!