Pursuant to Time’s pronouncement of Ben Bernancke as person of the year comes this much more useful bit of information. The Pantone Color Institute has announced its 2010 color of the year: Turquoise, or No. 15-5519. While none of us would probably ever expect to entertain Mr. Person Of The Year in our homes, the Pantone Color of the Year would be much more useful, and to be honest, probably far more welcome. (“Mr. Bernacke? Dude, where’s my bailout?”) The Executive Director of the Pantone Institute, Leatrice Eiseman, explained the selection:

“Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous, effective escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of wellbeing.”

Yes, of course. Serenity with invigoration is just what we need. Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute® explains, “Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.” Clearly, given this year’s economy, Turquoise is a fantasy whose time has come.

Time also considered Nancy Pelosi and athlete Usain Bolt for the POTY title. Likewise, I imagine Pantone considered and rejected Wan Blue No. 12-4805 (too many people looking and feeling it), and Mimosa No. 14-0848 (it’s SO 2009).