Japanese colour theory is based around natural elements, with the 5 main colours being blue (wood), red (fire), yellow (earth), white(metal) and black (water ).
All other colours derive from a combination of these main colours. In 1862 the Japanese colour wheel was recognised by modern Western artists, and used to interpret Japanese colour theory. However, each colour has a meaning that does not necessarily translate well, such as the colour yellow, which can stand for bravery in Japan, but in Western culture would usually stand for cowardice.
Above: Colour wheel of the 5 main Japanese colours
Colour harmony is very important in the design of the Japanese traditional robe, the kimono. The colours for these heavily patterned and decorative robes can vary depending on the season for which they were designed, such as the Spring kimono below, with typical Spring colour combinations. More information on seasonal Japanese colours can be foundhere.1
Above: Spring kimono with typical Spring colour combinations
Many Japanese colour schemes contain pale and dark shades of green or brown, and vivid red or orange as an accent colour. An example of this isHokusai’s wood block print ‘The Great Wave Off Kanagawa’ which is shown below. I have included a strip of colours alongside the image showing the colours used in the print.
Above:Hokusai, wood block print, ‘The Great Wave Off Kanagawa’
Above: Examples of Japanese colour harmony2
Some contemporary Japanese designers are trying to break away from the stereotypical Japanese hues and harmonies, such as the work shown at the‘Contemporary Colours’ exhibition in Milan (2009)3. The aim of the exhibition was to show vivid colour in Japanese design, something that exhibition directorEizo Okadathinks does not happen often enough.
1http://waf*cku.wordpress.com/2011/05/15/japanese-colour-names-seasonal-combinations/
2Hideaki Chijiiwa (Sep 1991),Color Harmony, a guide to creative color combinations, Massachusetts: Rockport Publishers, Inc.
