International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue, often abbreviated as IKB, is a deep blue hue first mixed by the French artist Yves Klein. IKB's visual impact comes from its heavy reliance on ultramarine, as well as Klein's patenting of the color to maintain its unique status. This particular shade of blue, #012EB3, is a representation of IKB in the digital realm. It is created by mixing a very small amount of red and green with a significant amount of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0.4% red, 11.8% green, and 70.2% blue. It is widely recognized for its use in modern art and design, and is prized for its purity and depth. The color embodies creativity and the boundless imagination.
The color #012EB3, a deep and vibrant blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its high saturation and relatively low lightness value mean that careful attention must be paid to contrast ratios. When using this color for text, ensure that the foreground text has a sufficient contrast ratio against the blue background, ideally meeting WCAG 2.1 AA standards (a contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Failure to provide adequate contrast can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information, as colorblind users may not be able to distinguish it. Consider using supplementary indicators like icons or text labels to reinforce meaning. Thoughtful implementation is crucial to ensure an inclusive and accessible user experience when employing such a strong color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Modern Art Inspired Web Design
International Klein Blue is celebrated for its use in modern art, particularly by Yves Klein. In web design, it can serve as a striking accent color to draw attention to key elements or create a bold and memorable brand identity. However, it should be used judiciously, as its intensity can be overwhelming if overused. Consider incorporating it in buttons, headings, or graphical elements to add a touch of sophistication and artistic flair to your website. The captivating depth can evoke a sense of creativity and innovation, making it suitable for brands aiming to project a strong and distinctive image. Be sure to balance it with neutral tones to maintain visual harmony and readability.
Fashion and Tech Web Design
In fashion, this strong blue can be used in statement pieces or as a bold accent color in accessories. Because of its strong impact, it's perfect as a primary color in web design, especially for tech or art-related projects. This color can be used for backgrounds, buttons, and interactive elements, grabbing user attention immediately. To balance the strong blue, use clean, minimalist layouts, with a lot of white space and typography.
Interactive Elements in Web Design
This shade can be used as a unique accent color in interior design. Its vividness makes it unsuitable for large areas, however it can be useful to make a design unique and modern. In web design, using it sparingly for interactive elements such as hover effects or loading bars could be an optimal solution.