International Klein Blue
General Information 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 patented this color to maintain its unique quality and association with his art. The color is particularly known for its intense saturation and matte finish, which gives it a striking visual presence. It's achieved by suspending pure color pigment in a synthetic resin, which preserves the pigment's intensity. IKB has become iconic in the art world and is often used to evoke feelings of depth, spirituality, and the infinite. Its distinctive appearance makes it a recognizable and influential color in both art and design.
The hex color #0326B0, also known as International Klein Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background color for text. Due to its low lightness value, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for body text and 3:1 for large text according to WCAG guidelines. When using this color, careful consideration should be given to the text color choice to meet these accessibility standards. Tools such as contrast checkers can be helpful to determine if the combination meets accessibility requirements. Also, avoid using this color for crucial UI elements without proper contrast, as it can hinder usability for users with visual impairments. It's best used sparingly and thoughtfully to ensure that it does not create barriers to access.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
International Klein Blue can be used as an accent color in web design to draw attention to specific elements. Its vibrant and unique hue makes it suitable for highlighting buttons, links, or other interactive components. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user with too much color. Ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding colors to maintain readability and accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
This color can be applied to create a bold and modern interior design. It's excellent for painting a feature wall or selecting furniture pieces to add a vibrant burst of color to a room. This blue pairs well with neutral tones like white, gray, and beige to create a balanced and visually appealing space. It can be a statement color in a room.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, this color can be used for clothing or accessories to make a statement. A dress or a scarf in this color can add a pop of color to an outfit. Because of its bold nature, it's best to combine it with neutral colors to avoid a clash of colors.