By Tracey Maras
www.traceymaras.com
In the mid-1600s, Sir Isaac Newton discovered the spectrum of colors that are derived when white light passes through a prism. This and his further studies had groundbreaking influences in the science of optics, and to this day, greatly influence the work of artists. Reflection, refraction, and the color wheel. It was Newton who recommended the spectrum of color be arranged in a circular format.
While the science of color is absolute, with each color being based on a specific wavelength of light, our perception of color is not absolute.
When I ask you to visualize “red” a color comes to mind. It is likely described as the intense red of Western culture’s Christmas celebrations. But is your interpretation of red the same as mine? Not necessarily.
Research has shown that each individual’s unique life experiences can influence their interpretation of a color. The environment in which they live, their cultural heritage, and even their language (e.g. the names assigned to colors) can affect their definition of subtle color differences. (Emery/Webster and Hasantash/Afraz)
We know that the aging process, specifically cataracts, can impact our ability to see colors accurately. The yellowing of the lens of the eye that accompanies cataracts can tint our world without our even being aware of it. Gratefully, this effect can be reversed through surgery.
The neurophysiology of how the eye receives color information and transmits it to the brain cannot be changed. However, the brain’s ability to interpret subtle
“Chain of Rubied Pearls,” by Tracey Maras.
differences between colors can be improved through perceptual learning. Basically, practicing identifying colors can make you better at identifying colors.
This is why students often ask me how I can see colors that they cannot see. Where the student may look at a cloud and see only white or shades of gray, I may be able to identify blue, lavender, green, rose, peach, and creamy yellow.
There are tools that can be used to help discern subtle color differences. When looking at a digital photo, it is possible to zoom in to the point of seeing individual pixels of color. When looking at a printed photo, a color isolator (a business card-sized piece of white paper with a small hole cut in it) can be placed on specific regions of the photo to isolate and more easily identify colors. Turning a photo upside-down can make it easier to see color differences. A color isolator can also be used when working en plein air (outdoors).
But most importantly is the simple act of observing. Taking the time to really see. To not assume that we know the color of something. But to really see.