Perception of Color
Possibly the most interesting and unexplored aspect of design is the interaction of color. Sure, there have been plenty of studies, but there’s very little conclusive scientific evidence about the way we see color. There is one indisputable fact: We all see color differently. If given the opportunity to pick a true hue out a series of swatches, several different choices will arise.
There are many other factors that determine the way we see color besides our own physical and physiological differences. In order to see color we need there must be light. It’s reasonable then to suggest that the amount of light present will factor in the observation of color. Lack of light will result in colors of lower values while intense light will result in higher values. Too much light can cause loss of color as well. This is otherwise known as reflection.
Another factor that plays a role in our perception of color are the colors that surround our center of attention. As an example there is subtraction of color. Subtraction of color is the idea that a surrounding color absorbs its color from a color that falls upon it. If you look at the example below, you’ll notice the magenta appears a bit different in each example. This is caused by the surrounding red and blue. The blue background tends to suck the blue out of the magenta making it appear more red and the red background removes the red from the magenta making it appear more blue. The magenta however is exactly the same.
Other causes that influence our perception include after-image, simultaneous contrast, visual vibration, and the Bezold Effect. There are many theories that can fall within this realm. They are far too complex to go into with much detail within this article, but there will be more in-depth writings in the near future.
For a very in-depth exploration of color theory I highly recommend reading, “Interaction of Color,” by Josef Albers. Albers is well known for his color studies and this book provides great examples of various effects factors have on color.
