Meaning: This quote by John Kricfalusi, an influential artist and animator known for creating the popular animated television show "The Ren & Stimpy Show," expresses his frustration with the contemporary state of color theory and its application in art and design. Kricfalusi's critique brings attention to the widespread use of pink, purple, and green in art, particularly in the context of the cartoon industry, and highlights what he perceives as a lack of understanding and application of fundamental color principles.

Kricfalusi's statement touches on the importance of color theory, which is a fundamental aspect of art and design. Color theory encompasses the principles and guidelines that govern the use of color in visual arts, including the color wheel, color harmony, and the psychological effects of color. Understanding and applying color theory is essential for artists, designers, and animators to create visually appealing and impactful compositions.

When Kricfalusi refers to "buying any book on color theory today," he may be implying that contemporary resources on color theory fail to adequately teach and emphasize the foundational principles. He criticizes the prevalence of "poppycock," a term that denotes something nonsensical or absurd, suggesting that the current understanding and application of color theory in artistic education and practice are inadequate or misguided.

The mention of individuals "coming out of school painting pink, purple, and green" alludes to a lack of diversity and nuance in color usage. Kricfalusi's frustration likely stems from the overreliance on a limited palette of colors, which may lead to visual monotony and a lack of sophistication in artistic expression. He points to the pervasive influence of these colors in the cartoon industry, implying that these hues have become clichéd and overused, potentially leading to a lack of innovation and originality in visual storytelling.

Kricfalusi's critique may also reflect his concern about the impact of color trends on artistic expression. The use of certain colors may become fashionable or commercialized, leading to their widespread adoption without thoughtful consideration of their artistic merit or appropriateness for a given context. This commercialization of color could contribute to the homogenization of artistic styles and visual content, potentially stifling creative diversity and individuality.

Additionally, Kricfalusi's frustration with the state of color theory and its application in art and design may stem from his belief in the importance of mastering traditional artistic fundamentals. As an artist known for his distinctive and often unconventional style, he may advocate for a deeper understanding of color theory and a willingness to experiment with a broader range of colors to achieve more compelling and original visual outcomes.

In conclusion, John Kricfalusi's quote highlights his dissatisfaction with the contemporary understanding and application of color theory in art and design. His critique emphasizes the need for a more nuanced and thoughtful approach to color usage, particularly in the context of the cartoon industry. By challenging the prevailing trends and encouraging a deeper exploration of color theory, Kricfalusi's words serve as a reminder of the importance of foundational artistic principles and the pursuit of originality and creativity in visual expression.