Chromaphany: The Technique of Seeing Through Color
Chromaphany is a painting technique that joins observation with emotion. It begins when color becomes awareness and emotion becomes understanding. The goal is not to reproduce what is seen, but to reveal what is felt, letting light, structure, and color work together to express presence.
A painter follows six guiding steps that form the CHROMA method, a process designed to help artists move from connection to completion with intention and clarity.
CHROMA: The Six Rules of Chromaphany
C — Connect
Do not begin until you feel a genuine, spiritual connection to the scene. Ask how it moves you and what it truly makes you feel inside.
H — Harness Light
Observe how light reveals form, depth, and transition. Paint what light uncovers, not what the eye expects to see.
R — Roadmap Color
Identify the emotions the scene evokes, then assign a color to each one. Write them down as your guide before you begin.
O — Organize Structure
Arrange rhythm, proportion, and balance so that emotion has a place to rest. Let structure hold the feeling together.
M — Move with Gesture
Paint with rhythm, motion, and confidence. Let each mark express awareness. Do not overwork or overthink it.
A — Arrive
Stop when your painting conveys the same emotion you began with. That is where the connection is complete.
If you want to discus this technique, I would love to hear from you.