Michael Wilcox, Blue and Yellow Don’t Make Green (1989).

Michael Wilcox's book challenges the common belief that mixing blue and yellow together will always result in green. He argues that this idea is oversimplified and ignores the complexities of colour theory. Wilcox explains that colours interact with each other in different ways depending on their specific properties, such as hue, value, and saturation. He introduces the concept of "optical mixing," where colours are perceived as mixed even if they are physically separate.

The book also covers topics such as colour harmony, colour temperature, and the importance of colour in art and design.

Wilcox's book provides a comprehensive guide to colour theory and challenges me to think outside 'the coloured box'.

But why is optical mixing in colour important?

Optical mixing is a phenomenon in colour theory where colours appear to blend when placed close to each other. This blending occurs because the human eye and brain perceive the individual colours as a single, combined colour.

There are two main types of optical mixing: additive and subtractive.

• Additive mixing - is when coloured lights are combined, while subtractive mixing occurs when pigments or dyes are mixed.

• In additive mixing, the primary colours of red, green, and blue are used to create all other colours. When these colours are mixed, they create secondary colours, such as yellow, cyan, and magenta. This is how colours are displayed on computer screens and other digital devices.

• Subtractive mixing - is when the primary colours of cyan, magenta, and yellow are used to create all other colours. When these colours are mixed, they create secondary colours, such as red, green, and blue. This is how colours are printed on paper and other materials.

Optical mixing is essential in colour theory because it helps explain how colours interact and how the human eye perceives them. Therefore, understanding can create more effective colour schemes and visual designs by knowing how colours mix optically.

Colour theory is based on how the human eye and brain perceive colour and involves understanding the principles of mixing and how colours interact. Colour theory creates effective combinations and compositions in art and design that convey ideas and emotions. Artists can apply this knowledge by understanding the colour wheel, colour schemes, and harmonies. Historical and cultural contexts have influenced the use of colour in art, and different media and techniques can affect colour perception and representation. Understanding colour theory is essential in relation to other aspects of visual perception, such as contrast, value, and texture. The field of colour theory is continuously evolving, with new technologies and research being explored.

What have I learnt?

Understanding colour theory is crucial to creating aesthetically pleasing and compelling artwork. Understanding the historical and cultural contexts of colour theory can also inform my practice. Different media and techniques can affect colour perception, and understanding the properties of pigments and how they interact with light can help me achieve their desired effects. Colour theory is closely related to other visual elements such as contrast, value, and texture and balances these elements to create engaging and dynamic works.

Staying up-to-date with the latest research and techniques in colour theory can also inform my practice and help me explore new technologies and cultural contexts.

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