TERTIARY COLOR MEANING

Most of us know about primary and secondary colors, and these are simple to understand. However, for some, it may get a bit more complicated when considering tertiary colors, intermediate colors, and how all these work together.

To make things simple, let us start at the beginning. We all understand that there are primary colors, which include red, yellow, and last but not least, blue.

Basic Color Theory

These intermediate colors are created by either combining unequal amounts of two primary colors, or you can achieve similar results by combining a primary and connected secondary color.

Intermediate Colors

The tertiary colors are created by combining two secondary colors. So, a tertiary color contains some of all three primary colors.

Tertiary Colors

MIXING TERTIARY COLORS

It is as simple as mixing orange and purple, both are secondary colors. Since there are many different purple and orange varieties, you can create several different burnt sienna hues.

Burnt Sienna

To make a bright brown color, try using a yellow-orange mixed with a yellow-green. This should produce a brighter brown color.

Bright Brown

Try the cadmium red, which has an orange bias, and place some of the paint onto a mixing surface or palette.

Amber

USING NEUTRAL COLORS IN ART

Neutral colors like browns and grays provide essential support to the bright colors when looking at a painting as a whole.

Why Use Neutrals?

You can also change the color bias by creating a warmer or cooler neutral color, making these colors even more versatile. Brighter and darker shades can add depth.

Balancing Neutrals