Yellow-green is a tertiary color made by mixing the primary colors yellow and green. The split complementary color scheme uses three colors – a base color, and two colors on either side of the base color’s complement on the color wheel. To find the split complementary colors for yellow-green, we first need to find its complement, then the colors on either side of that.
Finding the Complement of Yellow-Green
The complement of any color is directly across from it on the color wheel. To find it, you look at the color wheel and go directly across from your color to the opposite side.
Colors opposite each other on the wheel are complementary because they contain no common hues. When placed side-by-side, they create the strongest contrast and make each other appear more vibrant.
So to find the complement of yellow-green, we look across from it on the wheel:
| Yellow-Green | Red-Purple |
The direct complement of yellow-green is a reddish-purple color.
Identifying the Split Complements
Now that we know yellow-green’s complement is a red-purple, we can find the split complements.
The split complements are the colors on either side of the complement. To find them, we go one step to the left and right of the complement on the color wheel.
So for yellow-green, the split complements would be:
| Red-Orange | Red-Purple | Blue-Purple |
A red-orange color is one step left of red-purple, and a blue-purple is one step to the right.
These two colors form the split complementary color scheme with yellow-green.
Properties of the Split Complements
Let’s look at some key properties of the split complementary color scheme:
– It provides strong visual contrast while retaining color harmony. The complements are vividly opposite each other, while the split complements are close enough to be harmonious.
– It offers more versatility than regular complementary colors. Having three colors provides more options for shades and combinations.
– The split complements are warmer and cooler versions of the complement. This creates more dynamic tension and interest.
– It’s easy to find colors using this scheme. You just need to identify the base color’s complement and then the adjacent colors on the wheel.
Applying the Split Complementary Scheme
There are a few different ways to apply the yellow-green split complementary scheme:
– Use yellow-green as the dominant color for a design, with red-orange and blue-purple as accents. This creates a vibrant and eye-catching look.
– Use the three colors in equal proportions. This provides a very dynamic effect.
– Pair yellow-green with one split complement, and use the other only for smaller accents. This offers a simpler take on the scheme.
– Try different tints, tones and shades of the colors. Lighter tints provide an energetic springtime look. Darker shades create sophisticated earthiness.
Examples of the Scheme in Use
Here are some examples of how the yellow-green split complementary scheme might be used:
Graphic Design
A poster could have a yellow-green background, with the title in red-orange and accents in blue-purple. This contrast ensures the title pops while adding visual interest.
Interior Design
A living room could feature yellow-green walls, a reddish-orange sofa, and blue-purple pillows and rug accents. This is a vibrant, lively color scheme.
Landscaping
Plants with yellow-green foliage can be paired with red-orange flowers and blue-purple berry bushes. This combination reflects the colors found in nature.
Fashion
Someone could wear a yellow-green top, red-orange pants or skirt, and blue-purple accessories like shoes or jewelry. It’s an eye-catching way to liven up an outfit.
Cooking
Yellow-green herbs like parsley could garnish a plate featuring red-orange salmon and purple potato. The vivid colors stimulate the appetite.
Benefits of the Yellow-Green Split Complementary Scheme
Using the yellow-green split complementary color scheme has many advantages:
– It creates high visual impact for displays, graphics, interiors and more. The high contrast commands attention.
– The color harmony helps unite varied elements into a cohesive whole.
– It’s vibrant without being overpowering. The colors energize but don’t strain the eyes.
– Nature provides inspiration for color combinations using this scheme.
– It offers versatility across many applications, from posters to clothing to food presentation.
– The three colors interact to make each other appear brighter and more dramatic.
Considerations When Using This Color Scheme
There are a few things to keep in mind when using the yellow-green split complementary scheme:
– Make sure colors are properly balanced. Yellow-green should dominate, as the central color.
– Be aware that red-orange conveys warmth, while blue-purple reads as cool and aloof. Use this to shape the mood.
– Too much contrast can be jarring and chaotic. Use tints and shades to soften the differences if needed.
– Limit the scheme to accent colors if the main color palette is more subdued or neutral.
– Pair with analogous cool greens and warm yellows if the split complements feel too isolated from each other.
Conclusion
In summary, the split complementary color scheme for yellow-green consists of red-orange and blue-purple. These three colors offer vibrancy, visual impact and versatility across many uses. By keeping yellow-green dominant and balancing the proportions of the complements, this scheme can energize designs and palettes for graphic, fashion, interior and other applications. Using tints, tones and shades can further refine the color combinations. The yellow-green split complementary scheme is a lively, nature-inspired way to add color and contrast. With some awareness of the color properties, it can be used creatively and harmoniously.
