Color Theories Behind the Color Black in Art

Three abstract paintings done using black color schemes. The paintings exemplify the color theories behind the color black in art.

BY ALEX TOWNASTALLI

If you’re a new artist trying to decide which powerful colors to use in your art, you’ve probably considered black. Black is a simple yet complex color to understand because it conveys multiple meanings depending on usage, culture, and emotion.

Despite its intensity, black is known as a neutral color. As a neutral color, it depends on the context in which it’s used to affect the viewer. Artists use black in various ways, depending on the science behind color theory and their own creativity to draw out the right emotions from their viewers. If you’re considering using black in any form of art, such as black pigment powder in resin or black paint in a piece of art, then you need to understand color theories. Keep reading to learn about the color theories behind the color black in art.

Psychological Color Theory

Basic color theory is based on psychology and the psychological effects that colors have on living things, especially people. Generally, neutral colors have a calming effect on the human psyche because they are simple and don’t overwhelm the senses. While black is considered a neutral color, it is more intense than most other neutrals, like beige and gray, so it creates a greater psychological response. In basic color theory, black signals power and authority. You will notice that many authority figures wear black in official meetings, such as the robes worn by Supreme Court Justices.

Emotional Color Theory

Beyond the basic color theory of what colors signal to the brain, we also know that colors affect our emotions. Black is an intense color that can therefore draw out intense emotions. It often makes people think of death and depression, probably because many societal contexts describe death and depression as dark, and black is the darkest color we have. Many people also associate black with mystery and the unknown since so many parts of nature use black to hide, such as animals with camouflage. Since black is also the absence of light, many people also say that black makes them feel scared, as humans have associated darkness with unknown fears for generations.

Cultural Color Theory

As we mentioned above, our societies and cultures largely shape our understanding of the color black. This means that in some cases, different cultures view the color differently. For example, ancient Egyptians saw black as the color of fertility and life since dark soil is often more fertile than light soil. However, most of Western culture, such as Western Europe and North America, views black as the color of death. Depending on what culture you were raised in, your understanding of the color black may differ from that of those who view your art. Take this into consideration when using the color black in your art.

The psychological, emotional, and cultural color theories behind the color black in art all help us understand how the color black affects those who look at it. Make sure to consider these various color theories when using the color black in your art.

Are you an artist? Do you understand the color theories behind the color black in art? Share your experience and thoughts with us.