The 'Color Symbolism' of some shades is greater than that of others, due to their association with various disparate elements, which give them their essential character. Red implies action. It also indicates an impending danger and is a sign to stop. Therefore, it is a color of 'dual symbolism,' covering extremes and the entire spectrum of interpretations in between. Red is the color of blood. The 'Color Symbolism' of red stands for zeal and go-getting attitude. It is said that the sight of this color fills a person with energy and enthusiasm. However, a greater presence of color red can symbolize excessive behavior and a violent force of action. This is true because red has the effect of increasing the heartbeat & respiration and it effectively propels a surge in energy.

Color red has been associated with stability, tradition, festivity, integrity, success, faith, ambition, power, masculinity, boldness, speed, strength, revolution, and sacrifice. On the negative side, red exemplifies arrogance, swagger, violence, and destruction. Due to its association with human blood, red represents the life force and emotions. The 'Color Symbolism' of red lies in the leading token of love and romance. This association earned it a significant place in the world of art through the genres.

The manner of the portrayal of red has been varying. A common methodology of representation in earlier sects was through the robes and garments of red color. Others included the use of red colored flowers, curtains, and other background elements. In the later forms of art, red was employed in an 'abstract' manner, mainly to express feelings and a tide of warm emotions. Red has traditionally been the color of divinity as well. Acts of worship, the clothing of God forms, and Holy men were often set in this color. The use of other hues in combination, modify the qualities of red. Certain softer color tones, such as pink tempers the effect of red. However, strong colors, like purple or deep blue make the setting look 'heavier.'

Apart from its usual meanings, various cultures attach different connotations to red color. It is an auspicious color in the South-East Asian cultures, where it is directly linked to Gods, honesty, purity, good fortune, and abundance. Red has a strong presence in divine rites and rituals in India and China. It epitomizes marriage and fertility in Indonesia. It is a common custom for married couples to wear red garments or paint their bodies in the same hue. In contrast, the South Africans treat red as a color of death and mourning. The Americans interpret it as a sign of patriotism, valor, and somewhat a conservative approach.

Annette Labedzki received her BFA at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. She has more than 25 years experience. She is the founder and developer of an online art gallery featuring original art from all over the world. It is a great site for art collectors to buy original art. Is is also a venue for artists to display and sell their art . Artists can join for free and their image upload is unlimited. Please visit the website at http://www.Labedzki-Art.com Annette has bonus offers on her work only. Buy 2 paintings of any size and receive 1 painting of your choice for free of equal size and value. SHIPPING IS FREE IN CANADA AND US ON SMALLER ITEMS Please feel free to subscribe to her newsletter at http://www.Labedzki-Art.com