COLORFUL & FUN

August 3, 2023 | Michele Larson |

Use color to bring out a range of fun feelings!

Not all art is serious! Some art is just FUN, and color is a big part of that. Have you noticed how color can greatly influence a vibe in a room or the tone of art? Do you know how to choose art & décor that can create a certain feel?

A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.

Reds & Oranges are energetic colors. They are used to stimulate the body and mind, promote power, and increase appetite.  That’s why many dining rooms and gyms have one or more red or orange walls.

Painting by André Derain,
L’Estaque, 1906

It is believed that Yellow stimulates the nerves and purifies the body, lifting your spirits and reducing stress. Is it any wonder many kitchens are painted yellow?

Painting by Claude Monet,
Water Lilies, 1919

Blues & Greens are restful, stable colors with a stress management quality. They create a soothing feeling, encouraging calmness. Does it make you think of spas or medical offices?

Painting by Georgia O’Keefe,
Blue & Green Music, 1921

How do you want your space to feel? Playful? Energetic? Bold?

A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
In this image there is an energetic orange flower. Adding its complementary color blue brings out the best in each.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
It’s fun to watch the yellow & orange flowers sway in the breeze, but the blue background makes this image so relaxing.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
The red inner frame emphasizes the passion of this fun Las Vegas print.

According to
Color-Related Studies…

  • Warm-colored (yellows, oranges) placebo pills are more effective than cool-colored (blues, greens) placebo pills.
  • Blue-colored streetlights can lead to reduced crime.
  • Red causes people to react with greater speed and force, something that might prove useful during athletic activities.
  • Black sports uniforms are more likely to receive penalties.
  • Paint your office Blue & Green: In 1999, researchers at Creighton University found that employees in blue offices felt the most centered, calm and hopeful towards their work. Since blue can lower heart rates and green can reduce anxiety and is associated with money, a combination of blue and green is best for the office.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.
A red and black logo for the font of a letter f.

White Mat or Black Mat?

  • White is the great neutralizer.  Sometimes there can be so many colors and so much action in the art, that it is hard to choose one color – this is where white works well.
  • Black creates negative space – so all you see is the art or image.
  • White is a contemporary / fresh, clean / uncluttered look.
  • Black is a sophisticated and elegant look.
  • White works well when you want to group a look (multiple pieces framed the same).