If you work in the world of print, then you know that to have a perfect match, you need to reference a Pantone color. This is term often referred to as “PMS” or “PMS color” and stands for the Pantone Matching System. Described in Pantone’s own words, it’s “the definitive international reference for selecting, specifying, matching and controlling ink colors.” For projects to be consistent in color, no matter the printer you may work with for a project, your graphic artist team will need to specify the Pantone colors.
Ultra Violet aka Pantone 18-3838 is this year’s Pantone Color of the year! Although it may seem like just a color, the importance of the Pantone is much greater than you think. From the Pantone website itself “This year’s color communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” The Color of the Year began when more people around the world were becoming fascinated with color and how it could convey messages and influence designers and brands in a variety of industries. This year’s color has a mystical or spiritual quality often attached to Ultra Violet and is often associated with being mindful, which is crucial in the overly stimulated world we live in today.
And for those who may not know the history of the Pantone Color of the Year – here are a few fun facts:
- Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, has made the decision of the Pantone Color of the Year, for the last 13 years.
- The selection for color of year is influenced by pop culture, popular travel destinations, organic elements, film, art, fashion, and many other elements. Pantone explores the globe looking for these influences to be sure to pick the color each year.
Color of the year began 18 years ago in 2000. Check out the last 17 Pantone Colors of the year below:
To learn more about Pantone colors, this year’s selection or historic facts, visit pantone.com.
