Meaning of different tones of white.
- Beth Harris
- Sep 27, 2022
- 1 min read
When looking into the colour white I noticed how many different tones of white there is. I also found different tones have different meanings and can create different emotions within the viewer/audience.
Here are some samples of different tones of white which can be created.

To create these different tones, small amounts of pigment are added to the ‘absolute white’ (which can be seen in the top right). This image above fascinated me because, even though some of the shades look too coloured however they are still classed as white. I am unsure whether this is a result of the background being ‘absolute white’ as well as comparing the different shades to one another. Going forward I would like to experiment how I can see if the tones appear differently if they are placed upon another tone/colour.
What do the different tones of white symbolise?

Pure white
- no extra colours added.
- symbolises the purest things(such as personality, new life, angles)
- hygienic
- makes areas feel more spacious and organised.

Warm white
- Orange tones have been added.
- Creates a sense of warmth as flames are a heat source and make you comfortable and cosy.
- More light is absorbed; therefore it doesn’t create a more spacious effect when painted on walls.

Cold white
- Blue tones have been added
- Creates an atmosphere with a low temperature, reflecting snow and icy conditions.
- Harsher to look at, subsequently creating a more sinister .
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