Inspiration in the color azul.

The color azul has been present in storytelling, too. Used as a character name and as a color name in literature, azul has been a metaphor for hope and optimism. The imagery it evokes is enduring. Look to examples like the enigmatic Azul in Pride and Prejudice, or the alluring Azul in The Great Gatsby.

Azul color has been immortalized on canvas. After centuries of the color azul seen in quintessential art and ceramics of the Middle East, the early Renaissance in Europe adopted azul as its most dependable blue. Impressionists like Van Gogh later used azul color abundantly to depict water, night, and sky. Picasso later used so much azul that he had his so-called “blue phase,” where the color azul was used to denote everything from serenity to sadness.

Blues in general are associated with dependability. The color azul is a more stimulating shade with the power to evoke thought. Its likeness to sky blue inspires a sense of well-being, too. Azul color has also been woven into many meanings as a popular name, especially in literature, denoting characters with great beauty or intrigue.

The color azul draws the most attention when placed next to warm neutrals like ivory. Paired with its complementary color, bright yellow, the palette becomes less exclusive — just look at the IKEA logo. Azul color shifts to a more luxurious look when combined with pinks and golds. Next to medium and light greens, the color azul fits right into a nature-inspired palette.