The two primary colors that combine to make orange are red and yellow. Color theory dictates that when these two colors are mixed in varying proportions, they create different shades of orange. In art and design, using equal parts of red and yellow will yield a vibrant orange, while adding more red will create a darker hue, while more yellow will result in a lighter shade. Understanding the mix of primary colors helps artists and designers create a wide range of colors and tones, contributing to visual interest in various creative applications, from painting to graphic design.