Colour Choices

In a world of infinite colour possibilities, one of the most powerful tools we, as artists, can wield is simplicity. When it comes to creating art, limiting the number of colours in a composition can result in more impactful, harmonious, and visually striking work. Though the idea of reducing the colour palette might seem restrictive, it often has the opposite effect—freeing us to focus more on other elements like form, texture, and composition.

How can simplicity in colour choices lead to stronger, more cohesive paintings?

Enhanced Focus

When we use fewer colours, we can use this to draw the viewer’s attention to a focal point rather than being distracted by too many colours. If I’m using a limited palette I tend to start by selecting a dominant colour, then build the rest around it with accents and neutrals, or sometimes complimentary shades.

Emotional Impact

Colour, as we all know, is a powerful emotional tool, and by narrowing down our palette, we can amplify the emotional atmosphere of our work. Each colour choice carries its own emotional weight, so by limiting colours it forces us to make intentional decisions about the mood we want to evoke, be that calm, joyful, dramatic or introspective for example.

Increased Harmony

By limiting the number of colours we use in a piece of work, there tends to be less chance for conflict or jarring that might disrupt the overall flow. A cohesive colour scheme—whether it’s complementary, analogous, or monochromatic—can help to unify a painting [if that is what we want].

I love monochromatic colour schemes (using variations of a single colour) especially variations of grey that have been created from one central tone. I also use complimentary [opposite] and analogous colours [next to or close to each other on the colour wheel] that allow me to then use fewer colours.

Contrast and Value

By limiting our colour choices, we automatically give ourselves freedom to explore value and contrast by creating depth and interest through variations in light and dark. This can make a painting more dynamic or atmospheric, without overwhelming it with too many competing colours. I will often create small exercise pieces before starting a painting, using just black, white and a mid-grey to really focus in on lights and darks before going into colour.

Stronger Narrative

Limiting the colour palette we use can also help clarify a narrative of a painting, for example when colours are reduced, we can more effectively draw attention to the story we are telling. By focussing more on what matters most in a composition, for example, we can make decisions about what needs emphasis, and what can fade into the background.

Visual Rest

When looking at a painting our eye needs time to rest, and sometimes an overly complex colour scheme can overwhelm the senses. In limiting the palette, it gives the viewer’s eyes a break, and allows us to travel around a painting more smoothly.

Unity

A restricted colour palette gives a painting a sense of unity. When all elements are built around a similar colour scheme, the work feels cohesive.

Final Thoughts

For me, the power of simplicity lies in its ability to distil an artwork down to its most essential elements and by limiting our colour palette we have a tool to create more impactful, emotionally resonant, and visually harmonious works. The restriction actually forces us to make decisions about which colours truly serve the work, allowing other elements, like composition, texture, form, contras, to shine.

If you haven’t already tried using a limited palette you might find it unlocks a whole new dimension to your work—one where each colour carries its own weight, and the whole composition feels more unified and purposeful.Top of Form