For 2018, Pantone has chosen a vibrant and provocative shade of purple as its Color of the Year. Ultra Violet was inspired by the color of the night sky and the mysteries of the cosmos, inspiring us to seek and discover.

“Pantone’s Color of the Year represents much more than the ‘trends’ of the design world; it is a reflection of the needs of our world today,” said Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute. Ultra Violet should refer to the future and the desire to overcome.

Since purple hues are associated with spiritual and even mystical qualities, figures such as Prince, David Bowie, and Jimi Hendrix have been inspirations for Ultra Violet. These iconic pop culture figures symbolize experimentation and eccentricity in expressing individuality.