I often look to industries outside of the one I'm working in for inspiration, finding an innovative approach to color, texture and packaging. The chocolate industry has seen a surge of creativity, full of interesting design in both product and wrapping.

Lisa Doyle of GCI Magazine recently interviewed me about the importance of color in packaging. In the feature, she explores why I've been drawn to this recent inspiration:

The chocolate industry is leveraging packaging in creative, interesting ways. Chocolate has carved out a niche, similar to that of coffee, tea and salt in the last couple of years, with an explosion of boutique, artisanal brands. It has been repositioned for its healthful benefits, to appeal to a youthful demographic.

Packaging plays with various types of paper and foils, mixing matte and glossy textures and of course, color! The palette shifts from its historically brown roots, embracing bright engaging hues to appeal to this new market.

Click here to read the full article. Browse through the slideshow below to discover some cool and colorful cocoa in the market!