What does color theory aim to explain?

Color theory serves to explain how colors are mixed and perceived, which encompasses the fundamental principles behind the creation and interaction of colors. It addresses the methods of combining primary colors to create secondary and tertiary colors, as well as the concepts of color harmony, contrast, and the color wheel. Understanding these relationships helps artists and designers predict how colors will interact visually, leading to effective color choices in their work.

While choosing colors for artwork, the history of color usage, and the psychological effects of colors are all important aspects of art and design, they stem from the foundational principles established in color theory. Thus, understanding the mixing and perception of colors is essential as it lays the groundwork for all other applications of color in art.