In response to an increasingly diverse global population, Crayola has introduced their latest innovation: the ‘Colors of the World’ crayon collection. This new set comprises 24 crayons designed to represent a wide spectrum of skin tones, effectively mirroring the rich diversity of cultures and ethnicities present in our society today. Collaborating with a former chemist from MAC cosmetics, Crayola aims to foster inclusion and acceptance among children of all backgrounds through these thoughtfully crafted colors.
The collection boasts the potential to create up to 40 distinct skin tones, with each crayon labeled in a manner reminiscent of cosmetic products. This unique labeling approach enhances the sense of realism and encourages children to find their own shade, promoting self-expression and belonging. In a statement, Crayola’s CEO, Max Thompson, emphasized the company’s commitment to increasing representation in creative spaces, asserting that these crayons are a step towards a more inclusive environment for young artists.
Expert Insights from Victor Lane
Victor Lane, a former Chief Chemist at MAC and now co-founder of MOB Beauty, contributed his expertise to perfect the color formulas over several months. He shared his personal experience of feeling underrepresented in seemingly universal products like crayons, stating, “I understand the joy of finding one’s exact match, and I hope that every child using these crayons will experience that same feeling of recognition.” Lane recalls the challenges of mixing colors to create a likeness of his own skin tone, making this project particularly meaningful for him.
Product Availability
The new ‘Colors of the World’ products are available in various formats: a 24-pack and a 32-pack of crayons, as well as 8-pack and 10-pack options for markers, and an 8-pack of colored pencils. The 24-pack showcases all the new skin tone shades, which can be ordered through the Crayola website, while the 32-pack, featuring additional colors for hair and eyes, is currently available for pre-order at Walmart.com.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Crayola’s ‘Colors of the World’ crayon set is a significant move towards inclusivity, offering children a chance to see themselves reflected in their creative tools. With a range of skin tones available, this initiative not only enhances artistic expression but also promotes a powerful message of acceptance and belonging.