The Power of Colour in Art

For centuries, artists have used colour theory to create life and dimension in their art. In brief, colour theory is the study of how colours interact with one another on the colour wheel and are therefore perceived. Without it, portraits would be lifeless, and landscapes would be flat. Many of the old masters carefully used colour to capture light and atmosphere in their work, often deviating from traditional practices to establish their own pioneering techniques. Inspired by the palettes and principles of these artists, landscape artist Paul Corfield applies a similar use of colour theory, law of reflection and bounced light in his stunning new collection.

By adopting traditional techniques in a contemporary context, Corfield adds an extraordinary sense of realism to his work, transporting us into his idyllic scenes. His dramatic use of light and shadow – known as chiaroscuro – is inspired by the work of Rembrandt, as are the warmer tones seen throughout the collection. These are created using a technique called ‘grisaille’, which uses limited colours, usually grey or brown, to create the illusion of sculpture or three-dimensional form. This can be seen in Corfield’s inviting skies. The delicate pastel elements of Corfield’s collection are reminiscent of some of Monet’s most notable impressionist works. Like Monet, Corfield expertly uses colour to create light – whether it’s the sun’s rays bouncing off water or peeking out behind the clouds.

As with the artists that inspire him, Corfield’s profound knowledge and understanding of colour theory impacts the entire mood of his artwork. This collection sees Corfield depart from his usual surrealist palette, opting instead for mature muted tones. Despite the shift in palette, the collection remains quintessentially Corfield – welcoming us home with a beautiful warmth.

Featured Art: 'Oceans Embrace'. A hand-signed limited edition artwork by Paul Corfield, from his latest collection 'Spring 2025'.

Colour psychology is something that we are exposed to everyday, whether realising it or not. Everyone from artists to advertisers make use of these ingrained colour associations to evoke a desired response. From the recognisable red of that much-loved cola brand to the comforting white tones adorning the walls of spas, every colour we encounter has been chosen to influence us in a certain way. Even when aware of their influence, colours can still impact our behaviours and emotions.

Realising this principle through his art, master wildlife artist Robert Oxley embarks on a new challenge in his latest collection, painting in solely blue tones. A significant departure from his usual psychedelic rainbow of colour, Oxley has totally omitted black and white from this collection. This meant he relied on a completely blue palette to build contrast and depth in his iconic big cats. This allows both Oxley and the viewer to focus on the form and detail within the painting on a deeper, more considered level. Removing the distraction of the interplay between multiple hues creates a more focused viewing experience, as our attention is drawn to how the various shades, tints, and tones create subtle variations of one single colour.

Many artists throughout history have explored the potential of isolated colour, particularly blue – from Picasso’s blue period to Yves Klein’s International Klein Blue – a deep ultramarine shade created by the French artist in 1957. It is now regarded one of the most distinctive and impactful colours in art. Klein would paint entire canvases in the colour – a strategy known as monochrome abstraction. Klein saw this as an “open window to freedom, as the possibility of being immersed in the immeasurable existence of colour.”

Featured Art: 'Stir It Up'. A hand-signed limited edition artwork by Robert Oxley, from his latest collection 'Spring 2025'.

Engaging in these types of immersive, almost meditative, experiences with colour can have a significant impact on our emotional state and overall wellbeing.

Russian painter and art theorist, Wassily Kandinsky felt the connection between colour and emotion more keenly than most. His strong association between the two has led many modern critics to believe that he had synaesthesia – a perceptual phenomenon where stimulation of one sense involuntarily triggers another. A pioneer of abstract art, Kandinsky’s work was characterised by eccentric arrangements of geometric shapes, lines, forms and vibrant colours. It is thought that Kandinsky experienced sounds as colours and shapes, so he would paint to music, creating a visual symphony on the canvas.

A similar emotive resonance between art, music and colour can be felt in Scarlett Raven’s Beyond The Surface collection, a deeply personal series of all-white floral textured canvases. Although absent of colour, the collection is bursting with emotion. The artist found solace working in pure white to a soundtrack of classical music, removing the noise of colour and lyrics to build serenity through shape and form. This allowed Scarlett to not only confront her darkest moments, but emerge stronger, showcasing the transformative nature of creativity in overcoming adversity.

Featured Art: 'Trust'. A mixed media original artwork by Scarlett Raven.

Art simply would not exist without colour. It influences every aspect of our lives, inspiring mindfulness and evoking emotion. If you would like to discuss introducing the power of colour into your home, talk to an expert Art Consultant, or find your nearest gallery.

Featured Art: 'Where We Dream Of'. A hand-signed limited edition artwork by Lawrence Coulson. Click here to see his latest artwork.