Pantone Colour of the Year: Why Peach Fuzz fails to live up to its essence

Each year Pantone undertakes the task of designating lsquoColour of the Yearrsquo that is aimed to reflect the spirit of the times For the year 2024 ndash Peach Fuzz has been nominated as the representative shade that stands for human connectionLeatrice Eiseman the Executive Director of Pantone Colour Institute shares ldquoPeach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others Its a velvety gentle peach tone whose allembracing spirit enriches mind body and soulrdquoConsidering the shadersquos meaning and the enduring structural ruin unfolding in certain parts of the world particularly Ukraine and Palestine does Peach Fuzz stand as a plea for human connection or a sneer at this sentimentIn light of Pantones recent unveiling of Peach Fuzz as the Colour of the Year for 2024 middaycom sought to explore the relevance of this hue in the context of the conflict unfolding globally Mumbaibased architects and interior designers offer their perspectives on the shade and highlight how the shade fails to represent human connectionPeach Fuzz ndash an appeal for human connection or a facade for tumultWhether Peach Fuzz is justified as the years colour is subjective and contextdriven ldquoIn times of conflict and societal unrest the relevance of a colour promoting human connection might seem incompatiblerdquo remarks Saniya Kantawala principal designer and founder of Saniya Kantawala DesignWhile Peach Fuzz conveys sentiments of kindness its influence on the broader global scenario is limited given its ambiguity and overly pacifying tone at a stage when we need collective strength and powerThe colours symbolism fails to directly address or impact the complexities of geopolitical conflicts or humanitarian crises adds Kantawala The shade much like its official toolkit ndash appears to be a bubble a blissful oblivionHowever experts have mixed views Despite not directly addressing the destruction led by the Zionist militia in Gaza and the Russian offence against Ukraine ndash Peach Fuzz serves as a symbol of the collective yearning for empathy and unity opines Rachna Agarwal founder and design ideator of Studio IAADldquoPromoting human connection through a colour choice like Peach Fuzz remains relevant even during global unrestrdquo adds AgarwalAccording to her incorporating warm and inviting colours into spaces evokes comfort and a sense of understanding infusing solace amid chaos and fostering ideas of solidarity The relevance of such an approach becomes crucial in times marked by instances of genocide insurgencies and civic turmoilThe colour provides a psychological respite amidst challenging global circumstances experts affirm In tandem it is imperative to underscore the role of social media in exacerbating our anxietiesldquoOur world has shrunk with the internet and we can feel and see the happenings miles away from us in an instant When our world is going through such tumultuous times we want our spaces to cocoon us by making us feel saferdquo informs Devika Khosla the creative director at The Works Interiors MumbaiWhat does lsquoColour of the Yearrsquo owe to the worldPantone has a role beyond aesthetics remarks Agarwal Pantone a significant player in the design and creative industry inadvertently becomes a culture influencerldquoThough not directly within its purview taking a stand for human rights could be conveyed symbolically through their colour selections fostering conversations around important issues and promoting inclusivityrdquo she adds This perspective underscores the idea that Pantones role transcends the visual realm to potentially impact broader social dialoguesHowever Kantiwala provides a counterpoint by emphasising that while Pantone could use its influential position to advocate for human rights its primary responsibility remains centred around colour trends and design aestheticsThis duality raises questions about the extent to which entities involved in forecasting trends and driving opinions should engage in geopolitical issuesIt prompts consideration of whether taking a stance for human rights aligns with ethical principles and whether such advocacy falls within the core responsibilities of a colour authorityIn a broader context Khosla highlights the importance of individual voices in shaping societal progress Regardless of the entitys size every voice contributes to the building of collective conscience This point of view iterates the potential impact of mass expression and dissentGen Z mantra personifiedKhosla brings attention to the idea that despite the colour promoting human connection and warmth it is crucial to embrace personal accountability over seeking solace in deceptionWhile Peach Fuzz may not directly mirror the Gen Z mantra of embracing reality over idealism delulu is the solulu its warm and cheerful essence can resonate with Gen Zs desire for positivity suggests KantiwalaAgarwal adds another layer to the discussion acknowledging that Peach Fuzz might not directly align with Gen Zs mantra of individuality but its soft calming tone could still resonate with the generations appreciation for mindfulnessAzure Fawn and Delphinium ndash Expertsrsquo pickIn considering a more fitting lsquoColour of the Yearrsquo experts offer diverse perspectives focusing on shades that symbolise resilience unity environmental consciousness and a return to natureAgarwal suggests deep azure blue for resilience vibrant green for sustainability or a unifying gold shade for hope and solidarity aligning with the global narrative of overcoming challenges and fostering positive change ldquoThese colours have a universal resonance that captures the spirit of the timesrdquo he arguesKantiwala proposes a blend of earthy tones particularly a warm grounding fawn to better encapsulate the global sentiments This light yellowishtan shade symbolises a return to nature comfort wisdom and trustFawn embodies stability grounding and mindfulness fitting the narrative of energising spaces while emphasising sustainability Kantiwalas suggestion highlights the importance of a colour that speaks to the need for balance in design and our livesIn a more personal reflection Khosla introduces Delphinium blue as a colour that holds personal significance due to her experience as a scuba diver She describes it as the colour of his watery haven beneath ldquowhose calming surface unfolds an intricate ballet of life whispering tales of the oceans delicate dancerdquo she describes