An Introduction to the Culture of Light in Relation to Color Design Needs

This article arises from the recognition of the need for an integrated approach to the teaching of color and light for the design discipline, as both matters are usually taught separately or not taught at all in the designer’s education. More specifically, in the field of Color Design, there are considerations that should be made, regarding the theoretical basis of light which can be very useful to understand the chromatic phenomena, as light contributes to color perception, appearance, and meaning. These theoretical foundations are related to the direct perception of light and color, physical characteristics we gradually experience through living, but also about the indirect perception, it means, principles, concepts or models that help to understand or give perspective to experienced phenomena, such as the cultural or conventional meanings of color and light.