The RYB (red, yellow, blue) color model is a traditional and widely used way to understand color mixing. However, it differs from modern scientific color models like RGB (red, green, blue) which are based on how human vision and light actually work. This raises the question – why is the RYB model still so prevalent when RGB is more accurate?
There are a few key reasons why RYB persists:
Historical Precedent
RYB has been used by artists for centuries. The RYB system emerged in the 18th century and became popularized by color theorists like Moses Harris. Artists were taught color theory with RYB. It continues to be passed down as tradition. Even when new color models like RGB were discovered in the 19th/20th centuries, the art world did not quickly adopt them. RYB has inertia and familiarity.
RYB is Simpler for Beginners
While unintuitive from a physics standpoint, RYB can be easier to grasp conceptually. The primary colors map well to common experiences. Red and yellow make orange, yellow and blue make green, etc. The fundamentals of mixing can be taught without understanding light spectra. Many see RYB as more intuitive than RGB for color theory basics. This makes RYB persistent in art instruction.
RYB Aligns with Paint Mixing
RYB corresponds better to mixing paints. Paint pigments work by absorbing/reflecting certain wavelengths. In paint, red + blue makes purple, whereas light red + blue makes magenta. Yellow paint also reflects more green light than RGB yellow. So RYB “primary colors” more directly mix other paint colors. This practical application helps sustain RYB for painters.
Limitations of RYB
However, RYB has drawbacks compared to modern RGB color theory:
| RYB Limitation | RGB Improvement |
| Not based on visual science | Models human vision and light |
| Restricted color gamut | Wider range of colors |
| Harder color prediction | Systematic color relationships |
Persistence of RYB Model
Despite limitations, RYB persists for various reasons:
– Tradition and familiarity in art world
– Simpler for color mixing basics
– Aligns better with paint mixing
– RGB adoption is still gradual
For tech like displays and LEDs, RGB clearly provides a superior model. But for classical art training, RYB fills a niche that still sustains its relevance today.
RYB vs. RGB in Art Education
Should art students continue learning with RYB, or use RGB for more accurate color theory? There are merits to both approaches:
Benefits of RYB Model:
– Intuitive primer for color mixing principles
– Longstanding method with proven results
– Closer approximation for paint mixing
Benefits of RGB Model:
– Scientifically accurate for light and vision
– Wider gamut with precise color control
– Systematic color relationships and harmony
– Applicable to digital art and new media
A balanced modern curriculum could introduce basics with RYB, but transition to RGB as the central color model. RYB provides an accessible entry point, while RGB offers greater precision. Integrating both equips artists with practical skills and technical mastery.
The Future of RYB
While deeply ingrained in art education, RYB may slowly decline as digital creation expands. But it still offers value in teaching fundamentals and paint mixing. Total replacement by RGB will be gradual. RYB will likely persist in some form as long as paint and canvas remain essential media. Modern color theory is moving to RGB, but RYB still has an instructional role.
Conclusion
RYB endures as a widely used color model due to:
– Deep entrenchment in art tradition and instruction
– Conceptual simplicity for beginners mixing colors
– Aligning better with paint pigments
– Gradual adoption of newer RGB model
RGB is scientifically superior and necessary for digital art. But RYB still provides unique benefits for early art training. The two models can coexist as color education evolves. While outdated from a physics standpoint, RYB will have longevity as long as traditional paint media are fundamental to art.
