Color is a very critical part of oil painting art and plays a decisive role in its visual impact. This article analyzes the status and evolution of color in oil painting, its specific role and application strategies, and how color can enhance the visual effect and emotional expression of the picture through contrast, hierarchy and symbolic meaning. With examples such as Rembrandt's "Night Watch" and Gao Lianbao's "Wandering in Time", this article analyzes how the light and dark contrast, cold and warm matching, hierarchy and symbolic meaning of color can create visual tension and emotional resonance. Research shows that color has enhanced the artistic appeal of oil painting through scientific matching and personalized application, and has become a bridge for emotional communication between artists and audiences, providing key inspiration for oil painting creation and appreciation.