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Color Workbook

Color Workbook (3rd edition) by Becky Koeing was met with great enthusiasm on my part. The publisher describes the text as presenting “... a wide-ranging overview of color theory and design combined with student activities that reinforce color concepts through hands-on experience.”

This text does deliver on providing exercises (at the conclusion of each chapter) using traditional methods (paint) and the computer. These activities give enough wiggle-room for any instructor to customize them for their own needs, while keeping the message of the preceding content reinforced.

Overall I was duly please with the organization of the book's subject matter (begins with color theory and concludes with a very short chapter on art history).

I was however surprised to see 2 chapters, (34 pages long) devoted to basic 2-D design concepts. This seemed a little out of place with the rest of the material. I would have much rather seen this section edited out, and replaced with a chapter on psychological/cultural influences or commercial application of color within the design industry.

This may not be a deal breaker for some academics, but may promote the use of a supplemental text if the need is great in these areas (not very economical given the high retail price of $70.00).

by Becky Koenig

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