Color of the Year: Blue-Iris [#18-3943

Color Authority Pantone reveals the color of 2008-- Blue Iris, or No. 18-3943.

In a statement, Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, said: “Blue Iris brings together the dependable aspects of blue, underscored by a strong, soul-searching purple cast. Emotionally, it is anchoring and meditative with a touch of magic.”

Later, in a telephone interview, Ms. Eiseman said the selection process had been very thoughtful, based on various influences, and that indeed the final choice reflected a “need for thoughtfulness.” Five individuals were involved in the selection process. “With blue iris, we felt that it answered several needs, hopes, desires, that kind of thing,” she said.

This article intrigues me and piques my curiosity. From the claims of the absurdity of such a statement, to the relief that fashion professionals felt when hearing, it brings to question the role of color therapy, and whether or not dedicating a color to a year can influence the minds of the masses.

I have my own thoughts and appreciation of color therapy; I think colors can stimulate, inspire, and challenge a person's emotional and mental conditions. There are reasons that fast food restaurants are colored in yellows and reds.

But how far can one hue go though? Will blue-iris really answer "several needs, hopes, desires," or will it simply be thought of by consumers as another shade of blue? Will it inspire people to find the magic in the world, or will they carelessly put on their blue-iris sweater with no concept of its reason? Did 2007's color, chili pepper red, play any role in your life? Did you even notice if it did or didn't have a role in your surroundings?