The core of gradient design is the smooth transition of color rather than abrupt jumps between hues. It can be a shift in lightness and darkness or a fusion of different hues, ultimately creating a visual experience that feels fluid and coherent.
Gradients are not a product of the digital age. As early as the Renaissance, artists used techniques like sfumato to achieve soft tonal transitions—Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is a classic example. Today, thanks to advances in graphic design software, gradients have become a staple in UI, web, and graphic design.
From a design perspective, gradients are not an independent style” but a visual tool in service of design. They don’t adhere to a fixed design philosophy—unlike Minimalism’s less is more,” or Retro design’s grounding in a specific era. The mission of gradients is to empower design: to enhance visual hierarchy, evoke emotion, guide attention, or shape a distinctive atmosphere. For instance, gradients can convey a futuristic vibe in tech contexts, and foster warmth in lifestyle products.
Dynamic and interactive gradients are steadily entering the mainstream. From CSS linear-gradient and animation to more advanced Canvas and WebGL/Three.js applications, improvements in browsers and device performance have made richer, more complex color behavior possible.
Looking ahead, VR/AR holds exciting potential. Beyond the two-dimensional screen, gradients can simulate natural light and construct immersive spaces—for example, the color transition from sky to horizon can create a strong sense of presence in VR. These gradients can also change in real time based on user interaction, time, or environmental data, opening up new dimensions of expression.
Gradients are captivating. Whether it’s the endless possibilities of color pairing or the expanding frontier of technical expression, these are avenues I love to explore.
I created Gradientshub to systematically consolidate and share thoughts, practices, and works related to gradients: to offer inspiration and methodology for enthusiasts, and to help more designers master how to craft a truly great gradient.
It’s more than a collection of works and tutorials—it’s a continuously evolving gradient laboratory.”
