Colour 201: Basics of Psychology of colour

Philosophy of Color

Neuroaesthetics is a fresh and flourishing field of study mixing neuroscience, psychology, and aesthetics to understand why certain visuals, colors, patterns, or compositions evoke emotional and cognitive responses. According to Carl Jung,we associate every colour with 'something' and that something depends upon our experiences (including cultural significance). Angela Wright, a colour psychologist has found that different personality types can be associated with specific colours. She also found each hue produces a specific psychological response.

Once the coloured light wavelength reaches our Hypothalamus (in our brain) through the eyes (optic nerve), Hypothalamus signals the endocrine gland to secrete certain hormones. In a way, every coloured wavelength evokes a specific physiological response which evokes a specific psychological response. Some colours increases our heart rate while another soothes us.

In fact, we all realize that every colour has an unique personality- some seems flamboyant, some sad and some soothing, as if they are individuals.

In this article we will talk about the "psychology of colour"i.e. the psychological association we generally have towards a specific colour.

Red: Passionate | Powerful | Energetic | Aggressive | Exciting

Orange: Warm | Energizing | Responsive | Enthusiastic | Inviting

Yellow: Cheerful | Optimistic | Refreshing | Bright | Stimulating

Green: Fresh | Abundant | Natural | Soothing | Balanced

Blue: Trustworthy | Serene | Cool | Intelligent | Meditative

Violet: Mysterious | Luxurious | Creative | Spiritual | Royal

Magenta: Bold | Imaginative | Expressive | Unique | Dramatic

Pale (Pastels): Elegant | Delicate | Subtle | Calm | Human

White: Pure | Clean | Minimal | Innocent | Fresh

Grey: Neutral | Universal | Reserved | Conservative | Practical

Black: Powerful | Elegant | Formal | Intense | Mysterious

Brown: Earthy | Stable | Regenerative | Reliable | Wholesome