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#BD251A

Brightness
107.5
HSL (°,%,%)
4°, 76%, 42%
HSV V %
74%
Lab
41.6, 58.1, 44.9
PNG size
6.1 KB
Tone / Feel
dark, intense warm hue
Black text 3.44:1 Fail (normal) · AA (large) (large)
White text 6.10:1 AA (normal) · AAA (large) (large)

Recommended text: White (6.10:1 — AA / AAA (large))

Color Profile: #BD251A

Common Name: Arts Red

RGB: 189, 37, 26

HSL: 2°, 79%, 41%

Contrast: White: 4.6 (AA Pass), Black: 13.2 (AA Pass)

Mood: This rich, intense red communicates energy and passion. Often used in art and design, it's known for evoking strong emotional responses, whether for bold creative statements or to symbolize urgency and action. Its depth gives it a balanced, approachable feeling while still making a striking impact.

Notable Color Matches:

  • Australian Standard R22 - HOMEBUSH RED (#C73D2F) - ΔE=8.56
  • British Standard BS 381C-538 - Post Office Red / Cherry (#C41C22) - ΔE=5.28
  • Pantone FHI 18-1564 TCX - Poinciana (#CA3422) - ΔE=4.35
  • RAL 3020 - Traffic Red (#BE3B37) - ΔE=14.27
  • Sikkens 4041 Color Concept - C4.55.40 (#C3371D) - ΔE=5.42

Why Designers Use It:

This color is widely favored in visual arts and design, primarily for its striking power and dramatic flair. It is commonly associated with action, excitement, and high visibility, making it ideal for branding in industries such as entertainment, fashion, and even technology. In traditional settings, it's often used to draw attention to key features or to incite urgency, such as in warning signs or product labels. Designers gravitate toward it due to its versatility in both digital and print media, particularly when they want to invoke a sense of vibrancy and life. The use of this specific shade of red has historical roots in areas like theater lighting and retail displays, where it was essential to stand out under harsh lighting conditions. While it isn't exclusive to any one region, it does have an air of boldness, which aligns with youthful and adventurous branding strategies worldwide. The association with art and entertainment further elevates its cultural relevance in modern visual language.

Palette neighbours