Pantone Color(s) of the Year 2021
We have a bright reminder that 2020 cannot last forever. Time is marching on and Pantone has released their color report announcing the color of the year for 2021 - and it’s actually two colors. My first thought was, “Really? Can’t we all just get along? Even our pick for color of the year is going to be divisive?”.
But of course, those Pantone people keep their finger on the world’s pulse. 2020 has certainly been polarizing, confusing and dark at times but there is still hope for us. These two picks for 2021; Ultimate Gray and Illuminating; are contrasting and complimentary with a positive message.
Ultimate Gray is a strong, clear and solidly neutral gray. It is steadfast with no leanings to even the slightest to a warm dove, nor to green institutional nor to dark and stormy gray. “It’s a dependable gray,” says Ms. Eiseman of Pantone. It’s a gray that exudes wisdom and intelligence.
It’s still just gray though which is why we need it’s perkier 2021 partner in color to liven things up. Illuminating is a happy-go-lucky smiley face yellow. It is bright, genuine and hopeful and captures the power of sunshine.
Pantone reminds us that these two tones can also be interpreted in metallics, so for us framers any silver or gold sample on the wall is on trend and in the game. Better yet, is a combination hitting both notes like the Porter collection below.
The Pantone colors of 2021 remind us that while the future has looked bleak, there is always hope. While we may have our differences, we still make a great team and are certainly stronger together. I’m on board.
