Contrast

Successful Contrast

“Contrast is the counteraction to the human perceptual systems’ action toward leveling or harmony.  In the photo above, the visual design of the car as well as the environment it is in manages the contrast.  The colors red and black are very opposite and contrasting colors; one is bright and vibrant while the other is dark.  Both colors together make the car visually stand out more than if it were only one color. The contrasting colors create a pop out effect. It use of the contrasting colors also highlights certain features on the car.  Another contrast in the photo is the room that it is in.  The room is filled with disorderly art on the right, and geometric shapes on the left. The tone of the artwork on the walls also adds to the pop out effect of the car and contrasts in color and tone.  A contrast in depth is also present, shown by the narrowing walls and the artwork in the back of the room.  This also aids in the contrast of scale and proportion.

Failed Contrast

This Bugatti Veyron represents a very poor use of contrast and contributes to it being a failed design.  There is no harmony between the two colors. One color is light pink, and the other is a more intense pink with a camouflage pattern. Not only do the colors fit the car, but they also do not work well with each other.  The features of the car are hidden due to the tone of the brighter pink. The camouflage make it difficult to see any kind of defined lines and create confusion. Another feature of the car that demonstrates a lack of contrast is the wheel color. It too creates confusion and does not create any harmony.