Imagine a chance encounter with the president of a company who’s tasked with the business of colour, down to the very process of naming and segregating it. Well, Jyotika Jhalani of label Janavi was in luck as bumping into the President of Pantone, Elley Cheng in a bar in NY right after her presentation at an event led to a groundbreaking collaboration with one of the most influential names in colour. Serendipitous, yes sure. Groundbreaking, truly.
The event was a show featuring Janavi’s latest – ‘The Duality Collection,’ which celebrated the intersection of day and night through a stunning palette of 175 colours. The collection, with its complex interplay of hues, spoke to something deeper for Jyotika. “I dream in colour,” she shared with Elley in a casual conversation post the presentation. Neither the designer nor the Pantone president knew then that this would mark the beginning of a thriving, creative journey.
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Jyotika recalls about their parley , “The next day, we sat down for lunch and felt an instant connection, both of us knowing that something special was brewing.” A mutual admiration for the power of colour and Jyotika’s own personal collection of 365 shades in her ‘Cashmere Paint Box,’ sealed the deal. Divided into 12 distinct palettes, the collection is more than just a visual feast—it’s a reflection of energy, emotion and the stories that colours can tell.
But it was really the launch of ‘Mocha Mousse,’ their next collaboration, that truly encapsulated the fusion of art and colour. Inspired by the glamour of the night, this collection drew from warm, inviting tones of chocolate, coffee, and mocha, making it a perfect fit for the festive season. “Mocha Mousse’ is about slowing down, enjoying life, and wrapping yourself in warmth. With its rich, luxurious textures and hues, it exudes not just style, but a tangible sense of comfort and joy,” states the designer states.
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From Pantone’s perspective, the partnership was just as organic as it was exciting. “At Pantone, we are constantly observing how the world interacts with colour. We met Jyotika and her team through Bibhu Mohapatra, another designer we had collaborated with. Her passion for colour and its energy was contagious, and it was clear that Janavi’s craftsmanship would bring Pantone’s hues to life in an extraordinary way,” explained Elley Cheng.
Pieces like ‘Stargazing,’ a crystalline masterpiece, and the ‘Galaxy Waves Shawl,’ adorned with delicate fringes, evoke a sense of wonder, while the ‘Building Blocks Stole’ and ‘Joy and Me Moments’ blankets introduce a touch of cozy sophistication. But perhaps the most striking aspect of the collection is how these luxurious pieces are also perfect for an Indian audience, especially during the upcoming festive celebrations. “The warmth, the joy, and the richness of these shades complement all skin types, making it a versatile, timeless addition to any wardrobe,” Jyotika says.
For those unaware, Pantone’s involvement in colour forecasting is as meticulous as it is comprehensive. Something I’ve always wondered as a creative in this industry, without having fully grasped the workings of an organisation so magnanimous. “The process of selecting a Colour of the Year is a blend of global trend analysis, colour psychology and an acute awareness of the socio-political climate. The Colour Institute’s experts, who travel the world in search of emerging influences—from art to fashion to technological innovations—take into account the mood of the moment, explains Elley, adding, “We watch everything: the entertainment industry, the latest trends in design, even social media. All of these elements combine to create a picture of what’s to come.”
The collaboration took root with a yearning to blend art, design, and emotion. Here’s to propelling colour from a mere visual element to a potent storytelling tool.
Also Read: Ally Matthan Is Documenting India’s Rich Textile Heritage, One Weave At A Time
