‘Living Coral’ Announced As Pantone’s Colour Of The Year 2019
There is no doubt that technology and social media has stolen the stage in terms of how we interact with the wider world. However, that does not mean that we have completely forgotten about the value of genuine, meaningful connections. With this in mind, it is not surprising that Pantone’s Colour Of The Year 2019 aims to join the natural and digital environments that we live in.
PANTONE 16-1546, Living Coral, is a playful yet comforting colour that embraces the connection between modern technology and the natural environment that surrounds us. Understandably, the first thought that springs to mind is the diverse and colourful ecosystem found beneath the sea. However, we can also find this colour in the palm of our hands, with a strong presence on social media and within various product brands.
The Pantone Colour Institute understands just how much power is behind a colour. By choosing a Pantone of the Year, they aim to help influence product development and brand growth across multiple industries. Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman, supported this year’s choice with the following statement:
‘Colour is an equalising lens through which we experience our natural and digital realities and this is particularly true for Living Coral. With consumers craving human interaction and social connection, the humanising and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial PANTONE Living Coral hit a responsive chord.’
The Pantone Colour of the Year is selected based on trend analysis across a wide range of industries and influences, from the entertainment industry through to natural and manmade materials and textures. We are, as a race, currently in a time of change and uncertainty, which leaves us craving meaningful interactions and experiences. Whilst a colour is unlikely to bridge all these gaps, Living Coral has been chosen for its warm and optimistic characteristics that draw people in and, hopefully, together.
Looking back at some the previous year’s winners, 2019 is certainly one of the most playful and light-hearted choices we have seen in a while. Last year’s Pantone, Ultra Violet, was dramatic and rich to reflect inventiveness and non-conformity. Before that, 2017’s Greenery has similar undertones to this year’s choice in that they both invoke thoughts of nature and living environments. However, Greenery remains neutral within this area, whereas Living Coral is unapologetically vibrant and lively without being too harsh or abrasive.
It awaits to be seen as to whether PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral can indeed live up to the expectations of providing a grounded and nurturing colour in an environment that is constantly shifting and evolving, but it certainly offers a light-hearted and optimistic colour that we are more than happy to embrace.
“Living Coral’ Announced As Pantone’s Colour Of The Year 2019′ has been written by Ellen Sexton, a design and marketing professional with over 6 years’ experience specialising in traditional and digital marketing, graphic design, and content writing.
