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Colour Wheel

The colour wheel is a fundamental tool in colour theory, organizing colours in a circular format to illustrate relationships between primary, secondary, and tertiary hues. It is widely used in art, design, and makeup to create harmonious or contrasting colour schemes.

Structure of the Colour Wheel

  1. Primary Colours: Red, blue, and yellow. These cannot be created by mixing other colours.
  2. Secondary Colours: Green, orange, and purple. These are formed by mixing two primary colours.
  3. Tertiary Colours: Created by mixing a primary colour with a secondary colour, such as red-orange or blue-green.

Colour Relationships

  • Complementary Colours: Opposite each other on the wheel, such as red and green. They create high contrast and vibrant looks.
  • Analogous Colours: Next to each other on the wheel, such as blue, blue-green, and green. They create harmonious and soothing effects.
  • Triadic Colours: Evenly spaced around the wheel, such as red, yellow, and blue. They offer balanced and dynamic combinations.

Applications in Makeup and Writing

  • Makeup: Complementary colours can highlight features, while analogous colours create subtle harmony. For example, green eyeshadow enhances red undertones in the skin.
  • Writing: Use colour relationships to evoke mood and emotion. Complementary colours can symbolize conflict, while analogous colours suggest unity.

Writing Tips

  • Describe how colours interact with light and texture. For example, "The emerald green eyeshadow shimmered against her warm skin, drawing attention to her fiery red lips."
  • Use the colour wheel to create vivid imagery and emotional resonance in scenes.

Related Topics

The colour wheel is a versatile tool that enhances both visual and narrative creativity, making it indispensable for artists and writers alike.