Color Theory

by José María Parramón

This guide explains how colour works in nature and how it can be manipulated to make expressive paintings. After covering the more scientific aspects of colour theory, the author offers information which analyzes a subject in terms of local, tonal, reflected and shadow colour. He demonstrates how to prepare a palette and how to obtain a wide colour range from specific mixtures. He defines and discusses colour harmonies, complements, and contrasts and shows the reader how to use cool and warm hues expressively, and how to juxtapose harmonious or discordant colours to produce different psychological and visual effects.

Genres: Art, Design, Nonfiction, How To, Drawing

111 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1989

About the author

José María Parramón Vilasaló (Barcelona, 1919 - íd., 2002) fue un escritor, pintor, dibujante, diseñador gráfico y editor español, famoso como autor y editor de obras de divulgación técnica sobre pintura y dibujo, de las que escribió más de ciento veinte y con las cuales llegó a ser el español más traducido después de Miguel de Cervantes (466 traducciones)

Reviews

[Ramakanth Domada · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief and comprehensive book on oil painting with emphasis on 'color'. This short book that can be read in 2-3 hours in one go. I liked the initial chapters about distinction between color in light and pigments and the addition and subtraction synthesis. Fundamentals like contrast, tones and induction of colors are explained in a great manner for beginners. The final chapter on the harmony and ranges of colors are great too. The middle chapters are for painters only, nevertheless anyone from photographer to digital designer will benefit from the starting and closing chapters of the book.

[Kelly Kinkade · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have an abiding fascination with the physiology and psychology of color theory. This book was very interesting for me because it approaches the same topic from the standpoint of an artist seeking effective techniques for creating desired perceptions of color in an observer. The book combines practical techniques for using oil and other paints to produce specific effects with astute observations on the psychology of color perception. Would recommend to artists generally.

[Red Pixel]

nice

[Wayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a self employed illustrator since 2011. Freelance since 1995. My early years were strictly pen and ink illustrations, which is a medium I love, but unfortunately does not bring a viable income. When I realized color was my only way to make it to a working career in art, this was one of the books I bought and read while teaching myself to paint. Over the years, I learned, painted, and established myself as a color cover artist. That was my toehold to real career possibilities. In 2009, I switched to digital workflow, because it was hard enough fighting a deadline. Fighting a deadline and a slow drying medium like oils was not tenable. Over the years since, I have done well as a digital illustrator, but lately, I have been itching to paint in traditional mediums. Not for business, but for my own edification. Therefore, I am re-reading my old color theory books, and embarking on a new phase of artistic expression. Who knows where it will lead!

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Resource.

[Katka Mašková · Rating 4 out of 5]

The great author.. All his books have been very helpful.

[Serge Pierro · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book on color theory. It is broken down into sections that are well explained, and have examples relevant to the theory at hand.