Black is real sensation, even if it is produced by entire absence of light. The sensation of black is distinctly different from the lack of all sensation. -Hermann von Helmholz
The Color Psychology of Black
- Black absorbs all light in the color spectrum.
- Black is often used as a symbol of menace or evil, but it is also popular as an indicator of power. It is used to represent treacherous characters such as Dracula and is often associated with witchcraft.
- Black is associated with death and mourning in many cultures. It is also associated with unhappiness, sexuality, formality, and sophistication.
- In ancient Egypt, black represented life and rebirth.
- Black is often used in fashion because of its slimming quality.
- Consider how black is used in language: Black Death, blackout, black cat, black list, black market, black tie, black belt.
How does black make you feel? Do you associate black with certain qualities or situations? Share your responses.
Back to Color Psychology
You can learn more about how other people react to the color black in these reader responses to black.
