International Klein Blue

#012FB3

About International Klein Blue

International Klein Blue (IKB), represented by the hexadecimal color code #012FB3, is a deep, vivid blue hue that was originally developed and patented by the French artist Yves Klein. Klein sought to create the purest and most impactful blue possible, believing that it possessed a unique spiritual and emotional resonance. He collaborated with a chemist to formulate a special matte, synthetic ultramarine pigment that would retain its intensity and vibrancy when suspended in a binder. The color is notable for its intense saturation and depth, evoking feelings of infinity and the immaterial. IKB has become a significant color in the art world and beyond, often associated with creativity, innovation, and transcendence. Its unique qualities make it an enduring source of inspiration for artists, designers, and other creative professionals.

The hex color #012FB3, also known as International Klein Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background or text color. Its relatively low lightness value means that text rendered in white or light shades will generally provide sufficient contrast. However, it is crucial to rigorously test color combinations using accessibility tools like the WebAIM Contrast Checker to ensure compliance with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG AA standards. For WCAG AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1 respectively. Avoid pairing #012FB3 with darker colors as the contrast may fall below acceptable levels, potentially hindering readability for users with visual impairments. Consideration should also be given to users with color vision deficiencies (color blindness), where relying solely on color to convey information is not advisable. Supplementing color cues with text labels or other visual indicators can enhance accessibility.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

RGB
1 47 179
RGB1 47 179
Red
Green
Blue
HSL
224.49deg 98.89% 35.29%
224.4998.8935.29HSL
Hue
Saturation
Lightness
HWB
224.49deg 0.39% 29.8%
224.490.3929.8HWB
Hue
Whiteness
Blackness
hex#012FB3
rgb1 47 179
hsl224.49deg 98.89% 35.29%
cmyk99.44% 73.74% 0% 29.8%
hwb224.49deg 0.39% 29.8%
xyz-d650.09 0.05 0.43
oklch0.3921 0.2099 263.66
oklab0.3921 -0.02 -0.21
CMYK
99.44% 73.74% 0% 29.8%
99.4473.74029.8CMYK
Cyan
Magenta
Yellow
Key
XYZ-d65
0.09 0.05 0.43
0.090.050.43XYZ
X
Y
Z
OKLCH
0.3921 0.2099 263.66
0.39210.2099263.66LCH
Lightness
Chroma
Hue
OKLAB
0.3921 -0.02 -0.21
0.3921-0.02-0.21LAB
Lightness
Green-Red
Blue-Yellow

Alternative colors

Applications

Complementary color

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