Red and black are very powerful and intense colors. In terms of symbolism, red is usually associated with strong emotion and passion, whereas black is the negation of color and connotes mystery and the unknown. When both colors are brought together in a painting, the intensity of the red contrasts against the depths of the black to create a bold image with lots of emotion. Tapping into the powerful color combination of red and black can be a rewarding experience for artists interested in experimenting with something new.
Abstract Art
Abstract art removes itself from reality and focuses purely on the internal form. The style is free from the constraints of realism and is about giving a voice to strong emotion. Abstract art encompasses a wide range of styles, but the common themes revolve around shape, form and color. Contrast is also a key theme. Red and black are very common colors in an abstract palette because they can be used in a variety of different ways to create a range of different emotions. Techniques include contrasting bold, angular shapes with curved, sweeping strokes in order to mirror the interaction between two contrasting colors. Red and black are both very dominant colors; this suits the nature of abstractism, because each paint stroke can alter the entire tone of the painting.
Asian Art
In Asian art, the color red symbolizes good luck or good fortune. Similar to Western society, the color is also used to symbolize joy and fire. The colors red and black are very popular in Asian art and are rooted deeply in certain Asian traditions. Black is a neutral color and corresponds with water in Chinese culture; it is also the ultimate dark color and is often used in combination with other colors to make them appear brighter. Some artists take inspiration from Asian art and experiment with intricate red patterns against black backgrounds to make them stand out. Alternatively, icons associated with Chinese culture such as Chinese dragons and lanterns look particularly striking when painted in just red and black.
Sunsets
Nature is often responsible for creating some of the most breathtaking inspiration for pieces of art. In contemporary society, art that celebrates the transition from day into night is particularly popular. Although a regular occurrence, the imagery created during a sunset is a remarkable thing. Sunsets can appear in a variety of colors and no two look the same. Once again, contrast is key. The horizon should be blacked out to create a landscape silhouette, and then tones of red can be graduated from the horizon line to capture the moving light being thrown from the setting sun.
Vampiric Art
In recent years, vampire movies and novels have become very popular in mainstream society. The trend has even filtered into a variety of different unassociated mediums, including music, fashion and art. Similar to Gothic art, vampiric art is about allure, sensuality and mood. Black is the prominent color used in this style and the only other colors used are white, to create shading and highlighted areas, and blood red. Deep reds can be used to pick out the color of stained lips, glimmering jewels and, of course, blood. This type of art is particularly popular in fandom communities, however, encapsulating the intense romanticism in vampiric art can be enjoyed by any artist.
