Alongside looking at the meanings of shapes, I have looked at the attributes and meanings of different colours.
RED captures attention and is one of the most visible colours. It has a physiological effect on the viewer and prolonged periods of viewing can have an increased effect on a persons heart and breathing rate. Red can suggest aggression, energy, provocation and is the colour of danger. It can suggest luxury and celebration when used in conjunction with rich golds.
Attributes:
– increased enthusiasm
– more energy
– action
– confidence
Uses in media:
– to make people take action or make a purchase
– to indicate energy and passion
– often used as a warning sign
– best used as an accent colour as too much red can overwhelm
BLUE has obvious links to water and the sky and suggests trust and has a calming sense. It can be seen as being stable and reliable. It is often used in finance, medicine, science and technology.
Attributes:
– conservative
– safe, predictable colour
– orderly
– suggests direction
Uses in the media:
– conservative corporate businesses where trust, dependability and honesty are important
– light blue relates well to health and wellness and to travel and relaxation
– dark blue is a serious colour which inspires integrity, honesty and is used by political organizations, religious groups and legal firms
YELLOW is the most luminous colour and easily captures our attention. It is warm, positive, friendly, inviting, vibrant and stimulating. It is a highly dominant colour when placed with others and is preferred as an accent colour.
Attributes:
– represents sunshine
– happiness and warmth
– indicates caution
Uses in the media:
– For children’s products
– To stimulate the mind and creativity
– For leisure products – promote playful and fun activities or entertainment businesses
– To keep people moving
– As a caution colour
GREEN has connotations of growth and health through its links to nature. Dark greens suggest wealth and luxury, whereas lighter greens and pastel shades have a calming effect. Green is found in branding that represents or wishes to imply healthiness, energy, environmental sensitivity and intelligence.
