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Art director Stas Zhitsky discusses the importance of following color psychology theory in branding

Art director Stas Zhitsky discusses the importance of following color psychology theory in branding

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    Designer, artist, art director, A copywriter, columnist, and lecturer at the HSE School of Design, he has won over 30 design awards, including the prestigious Good Design and Red Dot. He is a jury member at festivals such as Cannes Lions, Eurobest, and AD Stars. My expertise in design and art allows me to create unique projects and share my knowledge with future professionals.

    The author of the book "Parable Therapy, or the Book of Meanings about Marketing" (co-authored with Sergey Kuzhavsky) is a recognized expert in marketing and graphic design. He has regularly published in Snob magazine, as well as in specialized publications such as graphic design magazine [kAk] and Creative Director. His articles in Vedomosti highlight his deep understanding of modern trends and strategies in these fields.

    — What colors do you prefer? — asked the merchant, confidently leaning on the table with both hands.

    Chichikov noted that there are many dark shades, such as olive or bottle green, which have a sparkling effect and can be reminiscent of the color of lingonberries.

    The merchant proudly declared that he was offering a product of the highest quality, which had no analogues in any of the capitals. He carefully removed the item, deftly placed it on the table and, turning it over on the other side, held it up to the light to show its shine. "What a magnificent shimmer!" he added, emphasizing that this product meets the latest fashion trends.

    The cloth shone like silk. The merchant intuitively sensed that in front of him was a connoisseur of fabrics, and decided not to start with a ten-ruble note.

    Chichikov, lightly stroking it, said: "This is decent. But, dear sir, show me right away what you usually show last. And I would like it to be more vibrant, with rich colors and sparkle."

    I understand that you really want the color that is currently in fashion in St. Petersburg. I have excellent quality cloth. I warn you that it is not cheap, but its advantages justify the high price.

    Let's discuss important aspects that will help you better understand the topic. We will focus on key points and provide useful information. It is important to keep in mind that a correct perception of the topic contributes to a deeper understanding and assimilation of the material. Use this text as a basis for further study and analysis.

    Price is an important aspect to consider when making a purchasing decision. It can vary depending on quality, brand, and other factors. To make an informed choice, it is important to analyze the market and compare offers from different manufacturers. A proper understanding of the price range will help you find the best option that meets your requirements and budget. Don't forget to factor in additional costs, such as shipping or installation, which may affect the overall price.

    The object fell from a height. The merchant, a skilled craftsman, deftly unwrapped it, grasping the other end and revealing a delicate, silk-like material. He held it up to Chichikov so that he could not only examine it closely but also smell its fragrance, uttering only one word.

    The text contains a unique phrase that may be of interest to a specific audience. However, to improve it for SEO, it is important to make it more accessible and understandable.

    Against the backdrop of Navarino smoke and fire, the cloth appears, attracting attention with its texture and color. This combination creates a unique atmosphere, sparking interest in traditional crafts and art. The features of the coloring and material make the product unique and in demand on the market.

    N. V. Gogol is an outstanding Russian writer, author of the classic work "Dead Souls." This novel, written in the first half of the 19th century, is a satirical study of Russian reality and the social structure of the time. At the center of the plot is the main character, Chichikov, who attempts to fraudulently acquire the dead souls of peasants in order to improve his financial situation and climb the social ladder.

    "Dead Souls" deeply analyzes the vices of society, such as corruption, hypocrisy, and moral emptiness. Gogol masterfully uses ironic style and vivid imagery to expose the absurdity of existing norms and values. This work not only reflects the realities of its time but also remains relevant in modern discussions of human nature and social relations.

    Reading Dead Souls, we are immersed in a world where each character is a vivid example of the social types that we still encounter today. Gogol's work remains an important element of Russian literature and culture, offering profound reflections on life and society.

    On the street, I was looking at a brightly colored truck with an attractive logo. On the side, it read "Sweet Life" and an image resembling a flower or other colorful element. Translating this into Italian, I wondered how this slogan is associated with a constant holiday filled with flowers and joyful moments. However, upon closer inspection, I realized it was an advertisement for a food delivery company. This discovery got me thinking about how brands use vibrant imagery to attract attention and create positive emotional associations.

    Image: Depot Branding Agency

    I might be biased, but I don't see any strong food associations with this color scheme. Such shades can only resemble a brightly colored donut or unnaturally colored ice cream with chemical additives. However, they are unlikely to be associated with the familiar foods found in most people's diets.

    The classic "edible" color scheme of the VkusVill online store. Screenshot: VkusVill website / Skillbox Media

    My interest in researching food delivery led me to analyze the colors used in apps. In most cases, the color palette was quite predictable and associated with food, with the exception of a few notable examples. For example, I found the "Sweet Life" app, Smart, for online grocery ordering, which used colors more appropriate for an airline or financial instrument, but was completely unappetizing. I also came across the "Food Fresh" food delivery service, whose dark black background completely undermined the entire message of the offer. Meanwhile, the other apps used traditional colors—green, yellow, and red—which evoked associations with delicious and appetizing food.

    Smart grocery delivery application Screenshot: Smart / Skillbox Media
    Website of the grocery delivery service "Food Fresh" Screenshot: Food Fresh website

    This case is the exception rather than the rule. In fact, there are practically no clear rules in this matter. Of course, it is inappropriate to paint the logo of a serious bank in a color associated with a frightened nymph. However, elegant and delicate products for women may well have a black logo, which is perceived as gloomy (for example, the Chanel brand). Interestingly, it was the French who coined the term "thigh color," but without knowledge of nymph mythology, it's difficult to understand why this particular area of ​​the body is associated with a color change in response to fear. There's a school of thought known as "color psychology," which has a controversial scientific basis. Proponents of this theory claim that each color carries a specific emotional and semantic charge. However, this view is questionable. I often hear from my clients: "Red seems too aggressive." Such statements highlight how color perception can vary depending on individual associations and cultural context. It's important to keep in mind that color perception can be subjective, and its meaning can vary greatly depending on personal experience and environment.

    Can we ask brands like Coca-Cola, YouTube, and MTS: is their color evil or just bright?

    Some argue that the color green is associated with ecology and sustainability. This belief stems from the fact that green symbolizes nature, freshness, and care for the environment. Eco-friendly products and sustainable practices are increasingly using green in their branding, emphasizing their commitment to ecology. Thus, green becomes synonymous with responsible consumption and environmental protection.

    When reflecting on our perception of naturalness and connection to nature, the question arises: do we really associate these qualities with brands like Land Rover, Sber, or WhatsApp?

    Some might say that the color black evokes associations with gloom and mourning. However, black also symbolizes elegance, strength, and sophistication. In design and fashion, it is often used to create contrasting and stylish looks. Black can highlight other shades and add depth to any combination. It's important to remember that color perception depends on context and individual preference.

    The topic of color perception in different cultures is quite interesting. Unlike Western traditions, where black is associated with mourning, in East Asian countries such as China and Japan, white symbolizes death and grief. Interestingly, in some African cultures, wearing red at funerals is customary, which also calls into question the universality of color symbols. The Kyrgyz, for example, have their own unique traditions: if the deceased is young, a red flag is raised over the yurt, for middle-aged people a black flag, and for the elderly, a white flag. This demonstrates the deep connection between color perception and cultural norms. It is important to note that Kyrgyz designers are not limited to tradition and actively use red and black in their work, including the Kyrgyzstan tourism logo, which is designed in red. Color plays a significant role in shaping identity and cultural traditions.

    Color in logos usually does not have a clear meaning or emotional load, except in rare cases. Therefore, you can choose any colors for your logo—your audience will eventually adapt to them. The main thing is that the chosen color harmonizes with the overall style of your brand and creates a memorable image.

    I'll get used to an artificial donut, and a bold banker will change the color of his logo to the shade of a frightened nymph's thigh.

    The pink color used during the reign of Emperor Paul I was typical for the linings of officers' uniforms. At that time, soldiers dressed more modestly, and their uniforms had linings in less vibrant shades that could resemble "the color of a frightened Mashka's thigh." This historical observation reflects the diversity of uniforms and their color schemes in the Russian army of that period.

    In previous issues, you could find a lot of interesting and useful information. We discussed current topics, shared tips and recommendations that will help you in various aspects of your life. Don't miss the opportunity to read our previous materials to stay up-to-date with all the latest news and trends. We strive to provide our readers with only high-quality and relevant content that answers important questions and helps you make informed decisions. Read and stay with us.

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