Exploring the true nature of colors

JAKARTA (JP): A visual sensation depends on the effects of light and color, which happens due to the light's special features. Light creates projecting energy. The human eye distinguishes different wavelengths from projected energy which are later interpreted by the brain as colors -- different colors.

The human ability to identify colors, aside from being extremely useful, allows us to enjoy certain sensations. People who are not enthusiastic toward art, still enjoys colors -- the colors of flowers, trees, water, the sky, clothing, architecture, interior design, etc. Even to those who are colorblind, although they cannot see colors, can still work with colors.

Colors are divided into two categories, both having distinct impressions. Red, orange and yellow are categorized as warm colors. Green, blue and purple are cool colors. The relationship between the two categories and the hot/cold sensations have been proved. Warm colors increase a room's temperature when the outside temperature is cool. And cool colors decrease a room's temperature when the outside temperature is warm. Yet, the two color categories are often coupled as one, counterbalancing each other. So, it would be useful to understand, in general, what each different color means.

Red is a symbol of the earth. It is associated with high- energy, warmth, excitement and stimulation. Research has proven that this color can increase one's blood pressure.

Orange is a symbol of sunset. It is associated with emotions, expressions and warmth. This color may encourage verbal expressions of emotions.

Yellow is a symbol of the sun. It is associated with optimism, humor, brightness and intelligence. It has the ability to counter negative emotions; the effect is stronger than that of the color red or orange to calm tension. Yellow must be applied carefully in certain places because it can cause people to think of old age and the skin color of those suffering from hepatitis.

Green is the symbol of nature. It is associated with leaves, grass and trees. It encourages growth, calmness, freshness, peace and constructiveness. Color theoreticians since the 1930s have promoted this color as appropriate for offices, classrooms and hospitals because it is the color which most encourages serenity.

Blue is a sign of the sky and the sea, and is interpreted for its qualities which encourage relaxation, calmness and loyalty. Blue is associated with rest, sleep and pride. This influences a decrease in blood pressure and is recommended for those who are healing from nerve problems because it relays a comfortable feeling, is good for headaches, bleeding wounds and so on. In contrast, excessive use of blue may promote depression.

Purple is known as a symbol for violets, which have spiritual qualities. This color may loosen up stress, although if applied excessively, represents tension and depression. This is because purple is on the boundary of the warm/cool categories, thus it represents unpredictability and duality.

Neutral colors are gray, brown and crimson. These colors indicate temperatures as too hot or too cold. Gray encourages people to stay at one place, yet may also be boring. Brown and crimson give the impression of comfort, a homey feeling.

White represents transparency, cheerfulness, and brightness. It has a direct association with clean sanitation. A holistic pattern of white relays a strong yet empty impression.

Black is the color which gives a strong pressure. If used excessively will cause depression. (Rosiana Ambarwati)