Unit 2: Basic Color Theory

The Structure of Color: How to identify and organize primary, secondary, and tertiary colors on the color wheel.

Color Properties: The definitions of Hue, Value (tint/shade), and Intensity (saturation).

Color Relationships: The dynamics behind complementary, analogous, and monochromatic color schemes.

Paint a personal color wheel using a specific painting medium to understand color mixing firsthand.

Analyze famous artworks to identify the dominant color schemes used by the artists.

Experiment with value scales by creating monochromatic paintings, adding white and black to a single hue.

Apply complementary color theory to create high-contrast compositions

• Color Mixing Mastery: Students will demonstrate proficiency in color theory by utilizing a limited palette of primary colors (plus black and white) to accurately mix a full spectrum of secondary and tertiary colors, including precise adjustments for lightness (tint) and darkness (shade).

• Chromatic Neutralization: Students will successfully mix neutral tones (browns/grays) by combining complementary colors, demonstrating the ability to neutralize a hue rather than relying solely on black or white.

• Application of Color Schemes: Students will create a final painting that intentionally applies a specific color scheme(e.g., analogous, complementary, or color triads) to achieve a desired emotional effect or visual harmony.