5.1: Understanding Complementary Contrast

Parts of a whole

Complementary colors represent two parts of the natural spectrum. The light mixture of two complementary colors will yield white. Harmony is easily achieved with this combination as this establishes equilibrium for the eye.  The eye will generate the complement if it is not there.

Frequent Friends, Occasional Enemies

Remember that all hues have their own characteristics: red is warm, blue is cool, violet is dark and yellow is light. It follows that the characteristics of each complementary pair is different; each is distinguished by a unique polarity or relationship dynamic.

~Complementary polarities:

                        Y= light                     B= warm                  R= Equal brilliance

                        V    dark                     O    cool                    G    and weight

Complementary pairs represent the strongest hue contrast possible. Red and green share no common component, but when considered, together they contain all three primary colors. As a result, the complements incite each other when near each other and annihilate when mixed together. When used in full intensity they can appear to clash. That is why it is good to balance the contrast with neutral colors.

Chromatic Neutrals

Chromatic or complementary neutrals are produced by mixing two complementary colors. When used in combination with their parent colors, the composition will be suffused with the energies of both colors. This is one way of enhancing the sense of chromatic light in a composition.

Possible Variations

The opposite colors found on a 12 part color wheel are not the only complements possible. In fact, the opposites on Munsell’s 10 part color wheel more closely align with the optical complement produced by mixtures of light. Therefore using these Munsell complements may give stronger effects.

It is also possible to suggest a complementary relationship with other variations. Split complementary pairs are made by using two adjacent hues in place of the true complement: for example, you may pair red with yellow green and blue green instead of green for pleasing effects. False pairs are made of secondary hues: Orange+ Green, Violet+ Orange, Green+ Violet. False pairs have similar color effects and characteristics as opposite hues only weaker and less commonly used. They are used often to create a slight sense of unease, such as with comic book villians.

Associations

Complementary contrasts are present in nature. They are associated with landscape, agriculture, bodies, organic matter, skin, plants, animals, food, dirt. They are versatile and tactile. You can use complementary hues in full chromatic strength to intensify each other or mix them with chromatic neutrals as base for mood and expression. Combined with pointillism for shifting and delicate transitions or throw off balance with disproportionate quantities and unusual value combinations.