See like a caveman

“Arranged in order of increasing complexity, the figures display a clear hierarchy of forms, from the simple "primitive" and geometrical, to more complex figures that look more like floral shapes. Here, we can detect the beginnings of Watts Hughes' passion for the project; what began as a technique for measuring an aspect of vocal prowess becomes an exploration of visual forms created through the resonant interaction of voice, instrument, and materials.“

See also: Red: The History of a Color Hardcover by Michel Pastoureau 

Similarity: The human eye [brain, actually -AW] tends to build a relationship between similar elements within a design.

“To summarize, there are strong indications that the degree to which certain relevant features are present in an image affects the likelihood that observers will rate it as being beautiful.“

“People are more attracted to symmetrical faces; infants and non-human animals prefer symmetry, too, which suggests that the concept has evolutionary roots. One reason we respond so well to symmetry could be because it simplifies cognitive processing.”

"People think that their decisions and choices are made consciously and rational, " explains Andrews. "Fact is, that most of our decisions in daily life are made on an unconscious level, which means we are quite vulnerable to persuasion attempts which effect our unconsciousness."

“Depending on... how you balance figure and ground, you direct the audience to look at different parts of the design and interpret what they see in different contexts.”

“our eyes can scan an image fastest when its shape is a golden rectangle. For instance, it’s the ideal layout of a paragraph of text, the one most conducive to reading and retention. This simple shape speeds up our ability to perceive the world, and without realizing it, we employ it wherever we can.“

Good overview - links in article give more in-depth info

50 research-based facts about how people react to color.

Article describing experiment asking consumers which company was most “ethical” or “environmentally conscious.” Blue & green won. The most "ethical" colors for your logo. Yep, it makes a difference. http://www.fastcodesign.com/3054339/evidence/how-a-logos-color-shapes-consumers-opinion-of-a-brand?partner=rss&utm_medium=email&utm_source=flipboard

Lots of info on camouflage used mostly in military applications. Seems to have been more popular for ships in WWI than WWII

Explanation + examples of Gestalt principles. Not the best, but some useful info.

Very pragmatic look at small selection of lines and how they can be used specifically in web design.

Useful clickable list that shows 1-2 examples of lines in use, as above (”unstable”). Originally documented in Landscape Architecture, by John Ormsbee Simonds, who put together a diagram of 48 Mood Lines.