‘Colors are words’: categorical color schemes and scientific visualization

Abstract

Among the visual variables available to information designers to represent data, color is uniquely complex. It enables almost immediate comprehension by the readers while carrying rich cultural references. Like other visual variables, the key challenge lies in balancing aesthetic appeal with clear communication. Our attempt is to suggest a color scheme for molecular visualization based on the experience in the design of categorical color schemes for statistical representation. Authors like Edward Tufte [46] recommend creating balanced palettes with distinguishable and harmonious colors, particularly by maintaining low saturation levels. The information design community has recently seen the emergence of several categorical color schemes, driven largely by the growth of visualization tools such as D3.js and Tableau. These statistical visualization tools have conditioned the development of reliable, ready-to-use categorical color schemes, helping designers create readable visualizations that align with the recommendations of leading scholars. Designers can either use these proven color palettes directly for quick results or use them as a foundation to develop their own schemes.