Carlstadt, N.J.—The Pantone Color Institute has released the 2021 color of the year, and for the first time it has elected to name two colors: Ultimate Gray + Illuminating. The two independent colors are said to highlight how different elements come together to support one another.
“The union of enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, The Pantone Color Institute. “Practical and rock solid, but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a color combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.”
Illuminating is a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, the company said, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power. Ultimate Gray is emblematic of solid and dependable elements, the company said, which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation. The colors of pebbles on the beach and natural elements whose weathered appearance highlights an ability to stand the test of time, Ultimate Gray quietly assures, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience, the company said.
According to the company, emboldening the spirit, the pair highlights our innate need to be seen, to be visible, to be recognized, to have our voices heard. A combination of color whose ties to insight, innovation and intuition and respect for wisdom, experience and intelligence inspires regeneration, pressing us forward toward new ways of thinking and concepts.