Arts and Music · Topic 9 of 111

Warm and Cool Colours

Reds, oranges and yellows are warm colours that feel energetic. Blues, greens and purples are cool colours that feel calm. Artists use them to set a mood.

💡 Fun fact

Warm colours seem to come forward while cool colours seem to step back.

All about Warm and Cool Colours

Colours are often described as warm or cool.

They remind people of the Sun and fire, and they often feel energetic and cosy. They remind people of water, sky and plants, and they often feel calm.

🎮 Try it yourself!

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Real-life uses of Warm and Cool Colours

Choosing colours to make a painting feel cheerful or peaceful
Designing a room with warm or cool tones
Making part of a poster stand out

Frequently asked questions about Warm and Cool Colours

Are green and purple cool colours?

Yes. Most greens, blues and purples are considered cool.

Why do warm colours seem closer?

Warm colours tend to advance visually, which can make them appear closer to the viewer than cool colours.

What is a neutral colour?

A colour such as grey, brown, black or white, which does not clearly lean warm or cool.