International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue, often referred to as IKB, is a deep blue hue first mixed by the French artist Yves Klein. Klein registered this color as a trademark in 1957. The visual impact of IKB comes from its reliance on ultramarine pigment, as well as Klein's technique of suspending the dry pigment in a clear synthetic resin. The color's intensity and purity are attributed to this method, which preserves the pigment's original qualities. IKB is more than just a color; it represents a pursuit of the absolute and an exploration of pure sensory experience. Yves Klein viewed the color as a medium that could convey emotion and capture the essence of the infinite.
The hex color #031AB3, also known as International Klein Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low luminance creates very poor contrast against light backgrounds, failing WCAG standards for text and non-text contrast. Using this color for text on a white background is strongly discouraged, as it will be nearly illegible for many users, especially those with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter color for text or graphical elements when pairing it with #031AB3 as a background. Alternatively, if #031AB3 is used for text, a very dark background would be needed. Proper contrast ratios are crucial for ensuring inclusive design.
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Applications
Modern Art
International Klein Blue, with its unique intensity, is often employed in modern art to create visually striking pieces. Its depth draws viewers in, making it ideal for minimalist designs where a single color makes a statement. Artists can use it for immersive installations or as a bold accent in paintings.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #031AB3 can be used as an accent color or as the primary color for bold, statement pieces. Its intensity makes it suitable for evening wear, accessories, or for athletic wear where a strong, vibrant color is desired. It is often paired with neutral colors to enhance its impact, and sometimes with vibrant yellow to create complementary styles.
UI Design
In user interface design, this shade of blue can be used to create a memorable and modern brand identity. While using this color for text may not be suitable, due to accessibility constraints, it may be applied to visual accents, navigation elements or call to action buttons. When used sparingly and combined with proper contrast, it adds a touch of vibrancy and sophistication to the UI.