International Klein Blue
General Information 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 pigment, as well as Klein's matte, synthetic resin binder, which suspends the color pigment and allows the pigment to maintain its original qualities. The hex code for IKB is #0b36a8. This blue is highly saturated and leans towards the violet end of the spectrum. It became the artist's trademark and is still managed by the Yves Klein Archives. Because of its potent impact, it's a favorite of designers and artists globally. However, due to its dark nature, consideration should be taken when using this color with contrast sensitivity in mind.
The hex color #0b36a8, also known as International Klein Blue, presents certain accessibility considerations for web developers. Due to its relatively low luminance, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as a background or text color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. When using #0b36a8 for text, it's advisable to pair it with light colors like white (#ffffff) or very light shades of yellow or green to meet accessibility standards. If using it as a background, ensure text and other foreground elements have sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify compliance with WCAG guidelines. Remember to consider users with visual impairments who may have difficulty distinguishing between colors with low contrast.
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Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design, Interior Design, and Fashion
International Klein Blue (#0b36a8) is a captivating and intense color, making it suitable for creating focal points and adding depth to designs. In web design, it can be used for call-to-action buttons to grab the user's attention or as a background for hero sections to create a bold and memorable first impression. In interior design, it can be used as an accent wall color to add a touch of sophistication to a room or as a color for furniture to create a statement piece. In fashion, it can be used as a color for statement dresses or accessories to add a pop of color to an outfit.
Digital Art and Graphic Design
In the realm of digital art and graphic design, #0b36a8 can be used to evoke feelings of depth, mystery, and sophistication. It can serve as a primary color in abstract compositions, lending a sense of the infinite and the unknown. Furthermore, its inherent intensity makes it well-suited for creating striking visual contrasts when paired with complementary colors such as yellow or orange. It is a versatile color capable of capturing attention and conveying a sense of profoundness, making it a valuable asset for any creative endeavor.
Branding
In branding, International Klein Blue can be associated with trust and authority, making it a solid choice for finance or technology companies. Its bold nature can project confidence. However, depending on the brand and cultural context, this color might convey seriousness, formality, or even coldness. This implies that when selecting a branding color one must consider the psychological and cultural connotations, together with the audience's reception.