How to construct Itten's circle

Itten’s circle is a visual tool used in art and design to understand and explore the relationships between colors. Developed by Swiss artist and teacher Johannes Itten, the circle is based on the color wheel concept and provides a framework for color theory. By constructing Itten’s circle, artists and designers can gain insights into color harmony, contrasts, and schemes. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of constructing Itten’s circle.

Before diving into the construction process, it’s essential to understand the basic principles behind Itten’s circle. It consists of twelve colors arranged in a circular form. Those colors include the three primary colors (red, yellow, and blue), three secondary colors (orange, green, and purple), and six intermediate colors achieved by mixing primary and secondary colors. The arrangement of colors in Itten’s circle follows specific rules of color theory, which helps artists make informed decisions in their creative work.

Now, let’s begin constructing Itten’s circle.

Step 1: Gather the necessary materials
To construct Itten’s circle, you will need a sheet of paper or a canvas, a compass, a ruler, and colored pencils, markers, or paints. Ensure that you have these materials ready before starting.

Step 2: Draw a circle
Using the compass, draw a large circle on your paper or canvas. This circle will enclose all the colors of Itten’s circle.

Step 3: Divide the circle into twelve sections
Using the ruler, divide the circle into twelve equal sections. To do this, draw straight lines from the center of the circle to the edge, creating twelve wedges.

Step 4: Label the sections
Starting from the topmost section, label each section in a clockwise direction. Begin with the primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. Then label the secondary colors: orange, green, and purple. Finally, label the intermediate colors: red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-purple, and red-purple.

Step 5: Color the sections
Now that your circle is divided and labeled, it’s time to color each section accordingly. Refer to a color wheel or Itten’s original circle for guidance on the accurate color placements. Begin by coloring the primary colors in their respective sections. Remember that primary colors cannot be mixed but are used as the foundation for all other colors.

Next, color the secondary colors in their appropriate sections. Secondary colors are created by mixing equal parts of two primary colors.

Finally, color the intermediate colors in their designated sections. These colors are achieved by mixing adjacent primary and secondary colors.

Step 6: Observe and learn
Observe the completed Itten’s circle and take note of the relationships between colors. Look for complementary colors, which are located opposite each other on the circle – they create a strong contrast when placed together. Explore analogous colors, which are adjacent to each other and share similar characteristics. Analyze triadic color schemes, formed by choosing three colors that are equidistant from each other.

By understanding and experimenting with the relationships between colors on Itten’s circle, you can make informed decisions in your art and design projects. It can guide you in selecting harmonious color combinations or creating eye-catching contrasts.

In conclusion, constructing Itten’s circle is a valuable exercise for any artist or designer seeking to deepen their understanding of color theory. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can create a visual tool that will serve as a reference and source of inspiration in your creative endeavors. Embrace the insights and possibilities that Itten’s circle offers, and explore the vast world of colors with confidence and knowledge.