Jessica Crabtree

Green is predominantly a color of nature. It’s is considered fresh and invigorating because it is the color of growing things; lush and fertile, it’s often used to represent renewal and hope. But it’s also remarkably versatile in its diverse tones – from olive to hunter to sea foam green, and has many symbolic associations.

While green in the form of chlorophyll is most abundant in nature, green pigments for use in art are derived primarily from compounds of oxidized metals (such as copper) and even semi-precious minerals. In pastels, it’s one of the more difficult colors to produce, especially in its darker tones. (I have found Art Spectrum’s greens to be among the best – they are hand-made from Australian mineral soils and are extremely rich and blendable.)

Green is a cool color and very restful to the eye, but not as cool as blue or violet. Combine with blues for a smooth, chilled-out look, or with warm reds or browns for balance and contrast.

National Geographic Photo Gallery: Life in Color – GREEN