If you remember from yesterday, we are discussing color harmonies. We were working through the tetradic color scheme and we will pick up there.

Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel. In other words, they are neighbors. They can be any combination of primary/secondary, or secondary/tertiary colors. Again, adding tints and tones and shades within each color palette will give you an array of combinations that work very well together.

We have discussed the color complimentary wheel, the split complimentary colors, the monochromatic, the triadic color wheel, and the tetradic color scheme. All of these color harmony groups can be further extended by adding tints, tones or shades. They make wonderful combinations that work well together for a cohesive and interesting piece of artwork.

All of this may be a bit overwhelming until you get used to the vocabulary. The best bet is to make yourself a list, begin simply and work different combinations for practice keeping the terminology in mind as you work. You can even make color charts for yourself and label what you have done as practice. Keep these charts for your own reference. After practice you will begin to pick up confidence and intuition about which colors will work best together. It may also depend heavily on what kind of project you are engaged.

Meanwhile, here are some pointers for making all of this work for you.

• Pick one dominant color. Going from there use this dominant color and choose other colors as accents that will compliment your design. Keep in mind the color qualities we have discussed.
• Choose just a few colors (three to five with shades, tones, and/or tints). Using too many colors can make the art chaotic and confuse the eye of the viewer. Remember, using a limited palette can still be colorful, bold and interesting.
• Use already existent color palettes inspired from nature. Study a sunset and chart the 4-5 colors, determine the dominant color and figure out what configuration formula you could use to achieve this effect. You don’t have to start from scratch to do this. Another tip here could be use some of your own photographs of almost anything. Zero in on one specific area that has strong color and follow the same steps for analysis. This is great practice to return to your own color combinations with palette work.

Following these formulas and combinations can be challenging but the more you practice the easier it will become. You will discover wonderful new color combinations through your practice and will remember the affects you can use to expand your skills in a whole new way. It will be worth your while to take time to launch this color project. Good luck and please let me know how you are doing!