Spreading and Spatial Effects
Simultaneous Contrast (colors taking on characteristics of their complement) is
occassionally overridden by the Spreading Effect. This occurs regularly when there is a
difference in the "spatial frequency" of objects on a background. After
analyzing the diagram below, you will see how this tactic can be applied to the design of
tapestries in order to preserve certain color sensations.
Instructions: Look at the two sets of gray patches occupying the same
area space on the light red background. Notice that the patches on the left appear
slightly greenish. On the right, the gray patches definitely tend towards red.
Simultaneous contrast is taking place on the larger blocks of the neutral gray. Whereas,
the thinner strips of gray exhibit "spreading."
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Dimensions of Color
3D Color Puzzle