Pantone unveils 2022 colour of the year

The organisation described the colour as a “a dynamic periwinkle blue hue with a vivifying violet-red undertone”.

“Blending the faithfulness and constancy of blue with the energy and excitement of red, this happiest and warmest of all the blue hues introduces an empowering mix of newness,” it added.

Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute, said: “As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue colour family. Encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possessing a violet-red undertone, Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”

Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Colour Institute, added, “The Pantone Colour of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that colour can hope to answer. Creating a new colour for the first time in the history of our Pantone Colour of the Year educational colour program reflects the global innovation and transformation taking place. As society continues to recognise colour as a critical form of communication and as a way to express and affect ideas and emotions and engage and connect, the complexity of this new red-violet-infused blue hue highlights the expansive possibilities that lie before us.”

Recent Pantone colours of the year

2021: Ultimate Grey (Pantone 17-5104) and Illuminating (Pantone 13-0647) An enduring grey and a vibrant yellow were both selected

2020: Classic Blue (Pantone 19-4052) A timeless and enduring hue elegant in its simplicity

2019: Living Coral (Pantone 16-1546) An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone

2018: Ultra Violet (Pantone 18-3838) dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade

2017: Greenery (Pantone 15-0343) A refreshing and revitalising shade

2016: Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 15-3919) A blending of two shades was chosen for the first time

2015: Marsala (Pantone 18-1438) A naturally robust and earthy wine red

2014: Radiant Orchid (Pantone 18-3224) An expressive, creative and embracing purple

2013: Emerald (Pantone 17-5641) A colour of elegance and beauty, most often associated with gemstones

2012: Tangerine Tango (Pantone 17-1463) Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset

2011: Honeysuckle (Pantone 18-2120) A dynamic reddish pink

(Courtesy: PrintWeek.com)