JAE JOHNS DIGEST

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Hello friend!

I know how hard you’re working to level up your art skills. You’re practicing techniques, studying composition, maybe even obsessing over brushstrokes. But here’s the thing: even if you master every other element, your art won’t sing unless you nail one critical ingredient—color.

And not just any colors. Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of the color wheel: secondary colors.

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Why Secondary Colors Matter More Than You Think

You’ve probably heard of primary colors (red, blue, yellow)—the ones you can’t mix from other hues. But secondary colors? They’re the magical offspring of those primaries:

• Orange (red + yellow)

• Green (blue + yellow)

• Purple (red + blue)

These three aren’t just “in-between” shades. They’re the bridge that creates harmony, depth, and emotion in your work. Think of Van Gogh’s swirling greens in Starry Night, or the fiery oranges in Monet’s sunsets. Secondary colors don’t just fill space—they tell stories.

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The Problem Most Artists Miss

Ever finished a piece and thought, “Something feels off…”? Chances are, it’s a color harmony issue. Maybe your palette feels flat, or your shadows look muddy. That’s where secondary colors come in.

For example:

• Orange adds warmth and energy (perfect for sunsets or autumn scenes).

• Green brings balance and tranquility (ideal for landscapes or moody portraits).

• Purple introduces drama and mystery (think twilight skies or rich fabrics).

But here’s the catch: If you use them straight from the tube, you’ll miss their full potential.

How to Actually Use Secondary Colors Like a Pro

1. Mix Them Yourself: Pre-mixed secondaries can look artificial. Try blending your own—e.g., a cadmium red + lemon yellow creates a vibrant orange vs. a dull store-bought version.

2. Balance with Complements: Pair secondary colors with their opposites (e.g., green with red) to make both pop.

3. Layer for Depth: Use transparent glazes of purple in shadows or green in foliage to add richness.

The Biggest Mistake to Avoid

Overusing secondaries without a plan. Without a dominant primary or neutral, your art can feel chaotic. Start with a 60-30-10 ratio: 60% primary/neutral, 30% secondary, 10% accent.

Ready to Transform Your Color Game?

If you’re tired of guessing how to make your art feel cohesive and alive, I’ve got your back. Over at jaejohns.com/secondary-colors, I break down:

• Step-by-step mixing guides to avoid muddy colors

• How to use secondary hues in different art styles (digital, watercolor, oil)

• Pro tricks for creating mood and focal points

• Real artwork examples + downloadable color palettes

This isn’t just theory—it’s actionable advice you can use in your next piece.

So, are you ready to stop struggling and start painting with confidence?

👉 Click here to master secondary colors

Have a great day,
Jae