The self-proclaimed «master of colour» chose Cloud Dancer (11-4201). She called it the «symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society. As it rediscovers the value of measured thought and calm contemplation.».
This is the first time Pantone has chosen white in the 26 years it has been making these annual selections. It's also a radical change from last year's dark Mocha Mousse.
In the flowery language it usually uses to describe the Color of the Year, Pantone said that Cloud Dancer «symbolizes our desire for a new beginning. By also peeling away the layers of outdated thinking, we open the door to new approaches. Cloud Dancer calms the mind, encouraging true relaxation and concentration that allows the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, as well as creating space for innovation.».
In a statement, Pantone vice president Laurie Pressman said that «the airy white hue... explains our search for balance between our digital future as well as our primary need for human connection.».
carats.
JCK's Amy Elliott believes the jewellery industry will be «slightly disappointed» by the choice. «Pantone serves us best when choosing green, pink, red and lavender colours. Colours from the rainbow of gemstones that inspire so many of our designers,» he says.
«However, the positive aspect of this Cloud is that, in fact, it is a sign of a reboot. A «clean slate» that allows us to clear and settle our minds and spirits with something calming, peaceful and neutral.
«Few of us have strong opinions about the color white,» Elliott says. And she notes that in jewelry, pearls are «an obvious match for Cloud Dancer.» But they're always in vogue, she adds, so the choice is unlikely to fuel new demand.
Jennifer Heebner, editor-in-chief of the American Gem Trade Association's (AGTA) Prism publication, tells JCK: «In jewelry, designers and retailers can find the Cloud Dancer color in rainbow moonstone. Which has been extremely popular in high fashion for several years.
«White cultured akoya and South Sea pearls are more obvious choices. So get the color in your collection,» Heebner says. «Cloud Dancer will be easy to color coordinate with anything, really. And I think soft-toned options, like pale spinel gray or matte gold jewelry. Also the pale brown diamonds, they'll be super chic and luxurious when paired with it.».
Other reactions to the selection were mixed. The New York Post called it «boring». NJ.com wrote that «the internet was not impressed» and «people want a real color.».
At the annual Pantone selection meeting, the staff of The New York Times was not sure what to make of the new color. Or if you prefer, the non-color.
The name «sounds like a 1980s song that became a one-time hit,» said columnist Alex Vadukul. «From an aesthetic point of view, I think I like it. There's something exploratory and a bit mysterious about it. It also exudes confidence.».
18-carat yellow gold.
Times journalist Jacob Gallagher commented. «I can see why the white canvas might be the right choice for this moment. The culture at the moment is quite stagnant because everything looks like a rehash of rehashes... It's the perfect choice for this period of uncertainty, where no one wants to offend anyone.».
The commenters on Pantone's Instagram seemed confused.
«I guess we're all feeling completely uninspired these days,» wrote one.
Another also said: «I used to look to Pantone literally to find some colour in my life. Now the future looks... bland.».
Source: jckonline.com
