Color derives from the spectrum of light(distribution of light power versus wavelength) interacting in the eye with the spectral sensitivities of the light receptors. Color categories and physical specifications of color are also associated with objects or materials based on their physical properties such as light absorption, reflection, or emission spectra.
Above is what color literally is, in Launching the Imagination:A Comprehensive Guide to Basic Design , Stuart explains further the difference between Additive Color (RGB) and Subtractive Color (Blue, red, yellow), as well as their practical uses to artists.
Color also evokes an emotional response through cultural and personal associations, as well as the way colors interact chemically through our perception. Artists and designers have the ability to harness the power of color, through color schemes artists can give the illusion of depth, atmosphere, and even conceptual significance. Color can be used to direct the eyes of the viewer, as well as influence them emotionally.
Che Guevara by Andy Warhol 1968
The painting above, infamous in the late 60's for being a counterfeit that was later "Authenticated" by Warhol himself, is also a good example of how colors interacting with each other change our perception, and even our emotional response to the image. The middle panel is the most iconic today, being donned on countless t shirts sold across the US. To me, this shows that a bold design with this color scheme, as well as the emotive response the viewer would have to it as something that resonated with many people, even if they had no knowledge of the subject (or the irony of wearing a Che Guevara mass produced T-shirt). Would the orange/purple/blue panel have evoked a response as strong as the center panel? The color combination is beautiful, but it doesn't emotionally stimulate a romanisized notion of rebellion, stoicism, or communism.
Colors are never emotionally neutral.
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