As the world evolves physically and digitally, developing innovative colour systems and strategies will be just as important as generating inspiring colour palettes

The growing prominence of disruptive forces, such as the shift toward sustainability and a circular economy, will have wide implications for colour in the next few years. Virtual aesthetics and colour within the metaverse will also continue to be a tool for creative expression and breaking boundaries. Synthetic colour effects that exist in the digital realm will spur recreated simulations in real life to create awe-inspiring experiences, while the need for mood-enhancing wellness colours will increase as we continue to cope with the polycrisis.

We explore three principal colour innovations that will spur visionary creations in and out of the metaverse.

1. Transformative effects

The concept of meta-imagination, where fantasy shapes ideas, will be accelerated by the metaverse as the digital space continues to bring newness and experimentation into the physical world, generating just as much awe as the digitised versions. John Hogan’s latest glassworks creates translucent prismatic qualities that feel similar to Krista Kim’s Mars House NFT. While Italy-based artist Gioele Amaro creates digital paintings on canvas that are layered with varnish and paint for a shiny, iridescent quality, fusing virtual aesthetics into the physical world.

2.Generative colours

As AI and machine learning continue to advance, innovators will be able to utilise them to enhance colour creation, combination and effects. American paint supplier Sherwin Williams provides a Speaking in Colour AI-powered paint tool that can create a customised colour palette to match a description, be it a mood or scenario, while colour palette generators such as Huemint and Khroma use machine learning to create unique colour schemes for branding, websites and graphics.

3. Colours of intent

After experiencing a multitude of crises and as humans focus on living with intent, we see companies across industries use uplifting colours in the spirit of wellness. The goal is to surround people with saturated colours that can simulate the senses with fresh, energising pastel hues to promote healing. Italian company Florim and CEDIT – Ceramiche d’Italia hosted a virtual reality exhibit that takes visitors into a calming dreamlike realm.

Why it matters

As technology advances, designers should leverage AI and machine-learning tools to push boundaries when it comes to generating awe-inspiring colours that stimulate the senses and promote healing in the physical and digital worlds.

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