Understanding Complementary Color of Yellow

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

Have you ever wondered, "what is the opposite of yellow?" While it may sound like a straightforward question, the answer is rooted in a fascinating world of art and design known as color theory. In this blog, we'll explore the wonderful world of complementary colors and discover how they play a pivotal role in design and art.

Defining Complementary Colors

To fully appreciate the answer to our question—"what is the opposite of yellow?"—we first need to understand the concept of complementary colors. So, let's begin this color-filled journey!

Understanding Color Theory

Color theory is a fascinating subject and a valuable tool for artists, designers, and even marketers. It's a set of principles used to create harmonious color combinations that can affect mood and behavior. Imagine a red 'Sale' sign catching your attention in a store—that's color theory at work!

Color Wheel Explained

Think of the color wheel as a map of colors. It's a circular diagram of colors arranged by their chromatic relationship. The color wheel begins with the three primary colors: red, blue, and yellow. Mix these primary colors, and you get the secondary colors: green, orange, and purple. There's a lot more to the color wheel, but for now, let's keep it simple.

Concept of Complementary Colors

Now, onto the star of the show—complementary colors. These are pairs of colors that, when combined, cancel each other out. This means they produce a grayscale color when combined in light. But don't let the term 'cancel out' fool you. When placed side by side, complementary colors make each other pop and create a vibrant look. They're opposite each other on the color wheel, and that's why sometimes they're referred to as 'opposite colors'. So when we ask "what is the opposite of yellow?" we're seeking its complementary color.

Exploring Yellow

Now that we understand the principle of complementary colors, let's shine the spotlight on one particular color: yellow. What makes it special, and what is its place in the color wheel?

Yellow in Color Wheel

On the color wheel, yellow is one of the three primary colors, along with red and blue. It's a vibrant and energetic color that stands out in the crowd. Just think of a field of sunflowers or a bright yellow rubber duck. These images are hard to miss, aren't they? This quality of yellow is why it's often used in situations where high visibility is key: traffic signs, safety vests, and more.

Symbolism of Yellow

Yellow is often associated with happiness, optimism, and creativity. It can symbolize sunshine, warmth, and cheerfulness. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Yellow can also represent caution or even cowardice in some cultures. And let's not forget the famous yellow "smiley" emoji that represents joy and positivity across the globe.

Shades and Tints of Yellow

From canary yellow to mustard yellow, this color has a wide range of shades and tints. Each variation has its own unique vibe. For instance, a bright neon yellow has a modern, high-energy feel, while a softer, pastel yellow might remind you of a peaceful, sunny afternoon. Understanding these shades is crucial to figuring out what works best in your design or art.

Identifying Complementary Color of Yellow

Now that we've delved into the world of yellow, it's time to answer the burning question: what is the opposite of yellow? Let's explore.

How to Find Complementary Color

The color wheel isn't just a pretty circle of colors; it's a tool. To find the complementary color of yellow—or any color—simply draw a straight line from that color to the opposite side of the wheel. The color you land on is its complement. So, what is the opposite of yellow?

Yellow and Purple: A Close Look

That's right, purple is the complementary color of yellow. Purple, being a mix of blue and red, contrasts sharply with yellow. This contrast is what makes them an attractive pair in the world of design and art. If you're creating something and you want yellow to pop, try adding a splash of purple. You'll be surprised at the impact this complementary color pair can make!

Applying Complementary Colors in Design

Knowing the opposite of yellow is purple is one thing, but applying this knowledge in a practical way is another. Let's see how we can use these complementary colors in design.

Importance of Color Harmony

Color harmony is like a well-coordinated dance—each color plays its part to create a pleasing aesthetic. When colors are in harmony, they create a sense of balance and unity. And this is where our pair, yellow and purple, steal the show. They work together to create a vibrant yet balanced design. But how exactly do they do that?

Complementary Colors in Visual Design

Yellow and purple, being complementary colors, naturally create contrast when used together. This contrast can be used to draw attention to specific elements in your design. For instance, if you have a yellow background and want to highlight an important message, try using purple text. The contrast will make your message stand out, ensuring it catches the viewer's eye.

Color Contrast and Balance

While contrast is key in design, balance is equally important. Too much yellow might be overwhelming, while too much purple might be too subdued. The trick is to use them in the right proportion. A good rule of thumb is to use one color predominantly and the other as an accent. This way, you can strike the perfect balance between being bold and subtle in your design. So next time you're designing something, remember: what's the opposite of yellow? It's purple—and they make a great team!

Case Studies of Complementary Color Use

Now that we've learned the theory and application, let's look at some real-world examples. These case studies will show you how the complementary color of yellow—purple, is used in different fields.

Complementary Colors in Branding

Branding is all about creating a unique image, and color plays a huge role in that. Take FedEx, for example. The company uses purple and orange in its logo. While not exactly yellow, orange is close on the color wheel and the combination with purple creates a striking and memorable image. It's a clear demonstration of the power of complementary colors in branding.

Yellow and Purple in Art

Art is another field where the complementary nature of yellow and purple shines. Famous painters like Vincent Van Gogh used this pair to create depth and contrast in their works. In Starry Night Over the Rhone, Van Gogh used yellow lights against a purple-blue sky to create a stunning contrast that makes the painting come alive. It's proof that understanding what is the opposite of yellow can help create art that captures the viewer's attention.

Real-Life Examples of Complementary Color Use

Looking beyond branding and art, we see examples of yellow and purple's harmony in everyday life. Think about a garden of yellow sunflowers against a backdrop of purple lavender. Or consider the LA Lakers' iconic yellow and purple uniforms. Both are examples that show how this complementary pair can create a visually pleasing and memorable image. Next time you're out and about, keep an eye out for this dynamic duo!

If you enjoyed learning about the complementary color of yellow and want to dive deeper into color theory, be sure to check out the workshop titled 'Making Skin Colours With Paint' by David Shepherd. In this workshop, you'll discover useful tips and techniques for mixing and creating realistic skin tones using paint, further expanding your understanding of color relationships and applications.