Color theory

Since I have started my major in Graphic Design, I have always wondered (until today) about RGB = red, green, and blue, CMYK = cyan, magenta, yellow, and black and PMS = pantone colors. My question is when do we use them and what color setting do I use when I'm working on a specific project? I'm glad that this article gives some insight as to when RGB, CMYK, or Pantone colors are used because I wanted to know the correct setting for my work. The color setting is important for graphic designers because a slight shift in the color balance can change the artworks look and feel towards a different direction. The article "Color Models in Graphic Design" by Adrienne Turcotte sheds some literal and figurative light on the relationship between RGB and CMYK. 

Turcotte discusses a simple, yet complex theory as to when RGB and CMYK are used. RGB and CMYK are two color settings that coincide with each other yet react differently to the type of medium they are applied to or seen on. RGB is a color setting that is best used on web design work and computer work, whereas CMYK is best used on print. RGB is a collection of primary colors or hues that combine to make white in a dark setting, whereas CMYK is a color setting that makes black. 

Turcotte also discusses the Pantone color system. In my opinion, the Pantone color system is a detailed color setting particularly for a piece of art. For example, last semester I developed a styleguide using Pantone colors for a mock skateboarding company that I called "Defy". I needed to show PMS colors because it is the exact color setting needed to make my logo and company identity work smoothly. 

Therefore, I feel that learning about color is important because it makes you a better graphic designer or artist. Color reacts and is showcased in different ways. Also, color is a subject that is intriguing because each color has a complimentary color that can potentially make the difference between a good piece and a great piece of artwork. All in all, I feel that I can only learn more about color because there still is room for improvement as a graphic designer.

article from http://www.designertoday.com/Articles/5946/Color.Models.in.Graphic.Design.aspx