The inherent visual attribute of things that results from the light they emit or transmit or reflect is a fundamental aspect of visual art. It is often described using terms like hue, saturation, and value. Hue refers to the pure spectral tone, such as red, blue, or yellow. Saturation, sometimes called chroma, describes the intensity or purity of a hue. Value indicates the lightness or darkness of a colour. For example, a painting might employ a saturated blue to depict the sky and a muted brown to represent the earth.
Understanding this attribute and its characteristics is crucial for effective communication and artistic expression. It impacts the mood and emotional response evoked by a work of art. Throughout history, different cultures and artistic movements have used it strategically to convey specific meanings. Certain hues have been associated with royalty, religious significance, or even danger, influencing how viewers interpret the artwork.
