Because theories of visual perception have traditionally concentrated on form, artists have generally dealt with the problem of color through their own observation and intuition. In Color Harmonies, Augusto Garau systematically investigates the role of both color and form in visual perception and presents an original theory of the aesthetic relations among colors. Garau, a painter who teaches the psychology of form, pays particular attention to the way colors behave when organized in patterns. His theory of color combination addresses two principal compositional elements: the relations between figure and ground and the phenomenon of transparency. Garau meticulously analyzes the use of color in paintings by masters such as Cézanne, Picasso, and Matisse to show how his theory applies to actual works of art. Containing many full-color examples, his introduction to the workings of color relations is of great practical use to art historians and critics, artists, interior decorators, fashion and set designers, and anyone who works with color to display information or convey emotions. "In an area of the psychology of art where reliable guidance is still so hard to come by, [Garau's] well-supported contributions to the theory of color composition ought to be welcomed by practitioners and scholars alike."—from the Foreword by Rudolf Arnheim

"The only color guide a designer will ever need. Completely updated with Pantone colors and new text by Leatrice Eiseman, America's Color Guru"--

Simple secrets for colors that sing Don't settle for colors that just sit there. Inspired by the work of the great Impressionists, Color Harmonies shows you how to use analogous colors (colors next to each other on the color wheel) and their complements to achieve lively, glowing effects. By keeping palette-mixing to a minimum, placing pure color notes side by side, and applying other simple but powerful color tricks, you'll create sparkling passages of color that attract your viewer's eye, engage the imagination, and make your paintings shine. 5 demonstrations illustrate the step-by-step creation of stunning light-filled paintings. Includes expert instruction on drawing and composition, techniques for adding texture and interest, making the most of light and shadow, and more. Richly illustrated with gorgeous landscape, flower and figure paintings. Brimming with 30 years' worth of instruction by a veteran workshop teacher, Color Harmonies offers a strong foundation for artists just starting out in watercolor, as well as groundbreaking advice for advanced artists in search of more effective and personal approaches to color and light.

Here is the original comprehensive guide to making successful color choices and color combinations. Including over 1,600 combinations, this little book packs a big punch, solving color questions through photographic and descriptive examples.

Simple secrets for colors that sing Don't settle for colors that just sit there. Inspired by the work of the great Impressionists, Color Harmonies shows you how to use analogous colors (colors next to each other on the color wheel) and their complements to achieve lively, glowing effects. By keeping palette-mixing to a minimum, placing pure color notes side by side, and applying other simple but powerful color tricks, you'll create sparkling passages of color that attract your viewer's eye, engage the imagination, and make your paintings shine. • 5 demonstrations illustrate the step-by-step creation of stunning light-filled paintings. • Includes expert instruction on drawing and composition, techniques for adding texture and interest, making the most of light and shadow, and more. • Richly illustrated with gorgeous landscape, flower and figure paintings. Brimming with 30 years' worth of instruction by a veteran workshop teacher, Color Harmonies offers a strong foundation for artists just starting out in watercolor, as well as groundbreaking advice for advanced artists in search of more effective and personal approaches to color and light.

Because theories of visual perception have traditionally concentrated on form, artists have generally dealt with the problem of color through their own observation and intuition. In Color Harmonies, Augusto Garau systematically investigates the role of both color and form in visual perception and presents an original theory of the aesthetic relations among colors. Garau, a painter who teaches the psychology of form, pays particular attention to the way colors behave when organized in patterns. His theory of color combination addresses two principal compositional elements: the relations between figure and ground and the phenomenon of transparency. Garau meticulously analyzes the use of color in paintings by masters such as Cézanne, Picasso, and Matisse to show how his theory applies to actual works of art. Containing many full-color examples, his introduction to the workings of color relations is of great practical use to art historians and critics, artists, interior decorators, fashion and set designers, and anyone who works with color to display information or convey emotions. "In an area of the psychology of art where reliable guidance is still so hard to come by, [Garau's] well-supported contributions to the theory of color composition ought to be welcomed by practitioners and scholars alike."—from the Foreword by Rudolf Arnheim