Watercolor schemes – Complementary is a color scheme using two colors that lie directly across from each other on the color wheel, such as Yellow and Purple. A straight line could be drawn connecting the two colors on the opposite sides of the wheel. They are considered complements or opposites.
Complementary pairs consist of one Primary and one Secondary color, or two Tertiary colors. One color in the pair is warm and the other is cool.
When the two complementary colors are placed side-by-side in a composition the colors intensify each other. Mixing two complementary colors together results in a neutralized color to a grayed color. A variety of neutrals and grays can be mixed by varying the proportion of one color to the other.
In a composition, make one of the complementary colors the main color. Add interest by mixing small amounts of its complement into the main color to create neutrals and grays. Add accents using the opposite color. Place the two colors side-by-side or near each other at the focal point of the composition to draw the viewer’s eye to the center of interest.
Understanding Complementary Colors and Pigment Bias
Not all complementary colors behave the same in watercolor. Individual pigments lean warm or cool, which affects how quickly they neutralize when mixed.
- Warm complements mixed together tend to gray or brown more quickly.
- Cool complements usually create cleaner, softer neutrals.
- Single-pigment artist-grade paints provide more predictable results when working with complementary schemes.
Understanding pigment bias helps painters control whether a mixture becomes luminous, earthy, or subdued.
Using Complementary Colors to Create Shadows
Complementary colors are an excellent alternative to using black for shadows.
- Shadows often contain a subtle hint of the object’s complementary color.
- Adding a touch of purple to yellow areas or red to green foliage creates shadows that feel natural and cohesive.
- This method maintains color harmony while preserving watercolor’s transparency.
Simultaneous Contrast in Complementary Color Schemes
Complementary colors intensify each other when placed side-by-side.
- A small amount of orange next to blue appears brighter than the same orange used alone.
- This optical effect allows painters to achieve strong visual impact with minimal paint.
Because of this, complementary schemes are especially effective for focal points.
Mixing Complementary Colors for Neutrals and Grays
Complementary colors can produce a wide range of neutrals.
- Adjusting the ratio of one color to the other creates warm or cool grays.
- These neutrals feel more connected to the painting than pre-mixed gray or black.
This approach is particularly effective in landscapes, still lifes, and architectural subjects.
Granulating vs. Non-Granulating Complementary Colors
Pigment texture plays an important role in complementary mixtures.
- Granulating pigments can separate slightly on the paper, creating lively, textured neutrals.
- Non-granulating pigments produce smoother, more even washes.
Choosing granulating complements intentionally can enhance skies, stone, foliage, and textured surfaces.
Glazing Complementary Colors in Watercolor
Complementary colors behave differently when layered instead of mixed.
- Glazing one complementary color over another preserves depth and luminosity.
- Mixing complements on the palette neutralizes color more quickly.
Glazing allows greater control over value and temperature while maintaining transparency.
Complementary Color Relationships Found in Nature
Complementary color schemes are common in natural subjects.
- Blue skies against warm earth tones
- Red berries surrounded by green foliage
- Orange sunsets contrasted with deep blue shadows
Recognizing these relationships helps painters apply complementary schemes intuitively.
Common Mistakes When Using Complementary Color Schemes
Being aware of common pitfalls helps maintain color harmony.
- Overmixing complementary colors can lead to dull or muddy washes.
- Using equal amounts of both colors can create visual tension.
- Establishing a dominant color is essential for balance.
Restraint and intentional placement lead to stronger compositions.
Simple Complementary Color Practice Exercise
To explore complementary color schemes:
- Choose one dominant color.
- Mix small amounts of its complement into the dominant color to create neutrals.
- Use the pure complementary color sparingly at the focal point.
This exercise builds confidence and control.
Color Wheel Complements
- Yellow < > Purple (Violet)
- Yellow-Green < > Red-Purple (Red-Violet)
- Green < > Red
- Blue-Green < > Red-Orange
- Blue < > Orange
- Yellow-Orange < > Blue-Purple (Blue-Violet)
For corresponding watercolor paint names for the above see What Watercolors To Buy.
NOTE: The hue PURPLE is labeled as the color VIOLET by most watercolor paint brands.
Complementary vs. Split-Complementary Color Schemes
A complementary color scheme uses two colors directly opposite each other on the color wheel, creating strong contrast and visual energy.
A split-complementary scheme softens this contrast by replacing one complement with the two colors adjacent to it. This results in a more complex palette with less visual tension while still maintaining contrast.
Complementary schemes are bold and direct, while split-complementary schemes offer greater flexibility and subtlety. Both are powerful tools when used intentionally.