Lesson 2
Look at Neutral Colors in Art We often name neutral colors brown or gray. All colors can be lowered in intensity until they become brown or gray. They have different qualities depending on which colors are used in the mix. In this pastel work by Degas, we see different neutral colors. The wall has a light yellow hue. The hat on top of the stand is also a yellow-neutral color. It is less intense than the wall. The stand and object in the woman’s hands is a reddish - brown. The lady’s dress is a gray neutral color. Gray is also seen in other parts of the picture. The picture is much more interesting because there are so many variations in brown.
Neutral color with emphasis on yellow.
Neutral color with emphasis on red.
Grays are neutral too. Some grays are more blue, some more yellow, and some more red. This gray has an emphasis on red.
Edgar Degas, At the Milliners, c. 1905-10 Pastel on tracing paper. Photo Credit: Dover Publications Inc., NY.
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