There is one universal problem before we begin to learn painting: WE THINK WE KNOW COLORS.
As we delve deeper into the world of colors, we often shift from a place of self-assurance to self-doubt about colors. But it’s this very journey that brings us from self-doubt to adaptability and flexibility—that defines what we aim to achieve as painters.
Our early education about colors often limits our understanding of their variety and complexity. Many people tend to overlook the nuances of color because we label them too simplistically—red, purple, pink, green, blue, orange, and so on. This habit of generalizing colors is common and prevents painters from observing them carefully and truly understanding their subtleties.

To paint effectively, painters must train color observation skills through consistent practice. This observation goes beyond what we perceive with our naked eyes, as our vision can sometimes deceive us. Instead, we need to adopt an analytical approach to truly understand what we see.
Colors are often not what they initially appear to be—what seems like a flat, singular color often contains subtle nuances and layers. Through observation training, painters learn to uncover these complexities. A painter who attentively explores the versatility of colors will naturally enhance their color-mixing abilities and use of hues, ultimately elevating the richness and beauty of their artwork.
There are several examples that are crucial for painters—and perhaps also for graphic designers and other industries reliant on professional color design—to fully understand the complexities of color.
Colors Are Complex If You See Carefully
Amateur and people who don't paint normally label colors in a simple and easy fashion —blue sky, green grass, red roses. But painting teaches us that these names barely scratch the surface.

What appears to be a blue sky and ocean at first glance might actually be a complex blend of teal, sky blue, turquoise, ultramarine, or even subtle hints of green or gray, depending on factors like the time of day or the weather. A skilled painter learns to observe these delicate variations and blend them to capture authenticity.
In this photo, a series of Pantone colors have been identified, ranging from light to dark blue. But are these all just "blue"?

A "white" snowfield on a sunny day might seem purely white at first glance, but closer observation reveals subtle hints of yellow, lavender, and baby blue, depending on the time of day, the angle of the light, and even the surrounding environment. These delicate shifts in color are caused by the way light reflects off the snow and interacts with atmospheric conditions.
Without careful observation, a painter might instinctively use pure white to depict the snow. While technically accurate, this approach can make the painting feel flat and lifeless, lacking the depth and vibrancy of the real scene. Incorporating these nuanced colors adds richness, dimension, and realism, bringing the painting to life.
Colors Shift with Light, Shadow, and Context
Colors aren’t static; they are deeply influenced by their surroundings and lighting conditions.

A "green" leaf might appear yellow-green when illuminated by sunlight, blue-green when in the shade, or even purplish when reflecting the color of a nearby object, such as a violet flower. These subtle shifts in color are a result of how light interacts with the leaf's surface and the surrounding environment.
Instead of depicting the leaf as a flat, uniform green, capturing these dynamic changes allows the artwork to feel more alive and true to nature. It’s this nuanced understanding of color that transforms a painting from a simple representation into an engaging, multidimensional visual experience.

Skin tones are a complex interplay of light, environment, and the subtle interactions between them. The color of a person’s skin can shift dramatically depending on the angle of the light, the surrounding colors, and how light reflects off nearby objects. For example, shadows on a face might reveal unexpected hues such as subtle greens or purples, influenced by the colors of surrounding elements or reflected light.
In certain lighting conditions, areas of the skin might take on cooler tones like lavender or blue when light is diffused, or warmer tones like orange or red when in direct sunlight. By observing and capturing these variations, an artist can add depth, dimension, and authenticity to their representation of the human form.
Understanding Color Relationships
Painting trains us to see how colors influence one another. Complementary colors (those opposite each other on the color wheel) intensify each other when placed side by side, while others harmonize or clash.



Emotional Impact of Colors
Colors evoke feelings, and painting helps us understand how to use them effectively.


The Role of Light
Light transforms colors, and painters must learn to observe its effects to make their work feel alive.


By training the eye to see beyonf labels and generalizations, painters develop a richer understanding of color relationships. This awareness enhances their ability to mix colors effectively, create depth, and convey emotions through their work. It is not just about replicating what is seen but interpreting and expressing it with sensitivity and intent.
Ultimately, the journey of color exploration transforms not only the way an artist paints but also how they perceive the world. The ability to see and capture these subtle nuances is what elevates a painting from ordinary to extraordinary.
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