What effect does saturation have on a color in a composition?

Saturation refers to the purity or intensity of a color in a composition. When a color is highly saturated, it appears more vivid and lively, while a color that is desaturated looks more muted or washed out. This property of saturation can significantly influence the overall mood and emotional impact of a piece of art, as intense colors can evoke strong feelings and draw attention, whereas less saturated colors might create a sense of calm or subtlety.

Understanding saturation is vital for artists and designers, as it helps them control how colors interact with one another and the visual weight each color carries in a composition. This understanding is essential for creating harmony or contrast, guiding the viewer's eye, and conveying messages effectively through color choice.