Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Simultaneous Contrast
This optical illusion affects the apparent temperature of a
color in much the same way it affects its hue, value, or saturation. A given color will
appear warmer when situated against cooler colors, but cooler when against warm-
er colors. In this example, the same green appears surrounded by fields of different
warmth and coolness; the result is a corresponding change in the green's perceived
warmth or coolness in turn.
Color: Form and Space
Color exhibits a number of spatial properties. Cool colors ap-
pear to recede while warm colors appear to advance. Of the primary colors, blue ap-
pears to recede and yellow to advance, but red appears to sit statically at a middle depth
within space. Applying color to a composition will have an immediate effect on hier-
archy, the relative order of importance of the forms in space. The intrinsic relationships
in a black-and-white composition might be exaggerated through the application of chro-
matic color, or made purposely ambiguous. Color distinctions can greatly enhance the
perception of spatial depth and force greater separation between the hierarchic levels.
For example, if an element at the top of a hierarchy is set in a deep, vibrant orange-red,
while secondary forms are colored a cool gray, these two levels of the hierarchy will be
separated visually to a much greater degree. Although the values of the colors are sim-
ilar, the saturated orange form will advance in space, and the cool gray one will recede.
