In the heart of one of the most notable museums in the country, hangs a painting that can only be described as super blue. The piece, named ‘Untitled blue monochrome (IKB 82)’ by Yves Klein, shares space with the abstract and complex work of Picasso and Kandinsky, yet it does not have any less appeal however simple it may seem. While some, including this writer, are inclined to feel that a plain blue painting is elementary, there is a reason it has been admired for decades. The choice for the monochrome blue was intentional, as is every shade in art and design. The same is true for the choice of the 2024 Pantone Color of Year, the soft and gentle hue between pink and orange, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz.
Beginning in 1999, the company, known for its color matching system that allows designers to custom match samples with a computerized tool, released its first Color of the Year to spark a conversation about color and engage the art and design community. A global team at the Pantone Color Institute studies societal trends in fashion and design year-round to determine which shade is selected. This year's choice was made to inspire human connection and a feeling of warmth, comfort, and optimism in a busy world. Whether you add Peach Fuzz to a website or wall, its gentle, velvety hue has an influence on emotion, perspective and decision-making.
From the phone case you buy, the clothes you wear, or the shade of banana you choose at the store, color has great power, and for the past 25 years, Pantone has worked to prove the influential relationship between color and culture should be recognized.