Final answer:
Complementary colors do indeed work well when used in text or to make elements stand out due to the high contrast and visual tension they create. Found directly opposite on the color wheel, examples include purple and yellow, green and red, and orange and blue. They should be used strategically to avoid visual discomfort.
Step-by-step explanation:
True: Complementary colors do work well when used with text and when wanting something to stand out. Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined in the right proportions, cancel each other out to produce a grayscale color like white or black. They are found directly opposite each other on the color wheel, such as purple and yellow, green and red, or orange and blue.
These combinations create a visual contrast that is very appealing to the eye and ensures that elements such as text can easily be seen and read, or that certain elements stand out in a composition. For instance, if you have a bright blue background and you use orange for the text or a key element of an illustration, it will stand out prominently due to the high contrast provided by the complementary colors.
It's important to note that while complementary colors create a strong visual contrast, they can also vibrate when placed next to each other, creating tension. This can be a desired effect when seeking to draw attention or create a dynamic visual experience, as seen in Keith Haring's 'Untitled'. Overuse of complementary colors or improper balance can, however, lead to visual discomfort, so they should be used thoughtfully and strategically in design.