We had the good fortune of connecting with Caren Chroma and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caren, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I’d say the most important factor is that the art and messages I spread are coming from an authentic, heart centered place. Anything I share is something I’m passionate about or has brought inspiration to my own life, so chances are it will do the same for others exposed to my work. The main focus is not on ‘how many followers can I get’ but rather ‘can I create from a pure place of intention within myself and trust it will ripple out to the hearts it is meant to reach?’ The goal with my art is to not only be an outlet for my self expression, but to also uplift and empower others to take creative ownership in their personal lives. I believe self love is the first place to start in the pursuit of making the world a more harmonious place. The body paint adornments are especially successful because they celebrate each individual ‘hueman’ as a unique work of art. I truly enjoy getting to connect with new people throughout the process while creating a safe space for each person to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I view LIFE as the greatest masterpiece of all. Whether we are making a beautiful meal, creating ambiance in our living room, or choosing what to wear in the morning, it holds the same creative energy as painting on a canvas, writing lyrics to a new song, dancing, and beyond. One commonality between all these activities is the fact that we must use our BODIES as the tools to manifest these experiences. In my late teens, I had the epiphany that we are all living, breathing, works of art in the flesh, and we all have the power to act on infinite creative impulses if we choose. This inner-standing was the root that sprouted my fascination with Humans and the Creative Human Experience. When I first explored body painting in 2011, I noticed how deeply connected I felt to the person (or myself) after the painting process was complete. The act of Adorning the human vessel creates space for introspection, reflection, and appreciation for all of the gifts our bodies provide on the daily that are often taken for granted. After countless self-painting rituals, I have personally experienced the healing benefits of this practice when it comes to Self-Love & Gratitude. This made me wonder… ‘What if more people could truly understand the profound Miracle it is to be alive & celebrate it by artistically adorning their bodies? What if everyone embraced their unique quirks and qualities with love & acceptance? Can body paint be a tool to help people honor themselves more fully and therefore make the world a more peaceful place? ‘ I have explored and enjoy may creative outlets : Painting, Drawing, Photography, Graphic Design, etc., yet there is something about body painting that makes me feel most alive. With such an ancient art form that appears historically in cultures all across the globe, a remembrance gets sparked that we are all part of ONE human family. That is why I am currently most excited and inspired by the healing potential of one-on-one Body Paint Adornment Sessions. I call it ‘Chroma Therapy’. No, I am not a licensed therapist, but the feedback I have received from each body paint session so far has been profound. This activity serves as a ‘heArtistic’ activation~ a space for each ‘Hueman’ to get clear on what they are grateful for and what they would like to anchor in their lives. Through Intention, Adornment & Photo Documentation, each experience is often left with a deeper sense of connection, motivation, and a remembrance of their true nature. I’ve come to understand that one of the best ways to feel fulfilled in life is to be of Service. Body Painting seems to be a creative outlet that lights my fire and simultaneously brings joy to others. This fuels my mission to empower others, generate beauty, & to paint this LIFE with meaningful connections and memories. As I build momentum with this path as a way to support myself, my goal and intention is to also give back to organizations that are helping preserve Indigenous Cultures around the globe~ especially those who still actively practice body paint ritual. I look forward to seeing how the journey continues!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I still have so much to discover in LA! Moving to a new city during a pandemic has made it a little more difficult to explore at full capacity. However, I would probably start off with a beach walk in Venice. From there we would grab a bite at Camilla’s Sourdough, my favorite café at the Venice Love Shack. This place legit has the best, fresh bread I’ve ever tasted and has all kinds of yummy drinks and treats as well. Plus it is surrounded by eclectic treasures, art, furniture, and good vibes. Next we would go for a hike in Topanga to soak in the rolling hills and ocean views. I am very much a nature girl, so anything involving beautiful scenery and fresh air is great for me. After sunset, we would head over to west Hollywood and get dinner at Tacos Tu Madre. I’ve only been there once, but it was such an inviting atmosphere with flavorful dishes, good tunes, & stellar margaritas. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would say first and foremost, I am grateful for my supportive family who have always celebrated my artistic expression from the very beginning. I think it’s often in early formative years that many children get their creativity crushed due to lack of encouragement. I feel lucky that I’m still in touch with my inner child/creator to this day. In more recent years, I give thanks to all of the artists I was blessed to meet during my 6 year residency at CoSM, Chapel of Sacred Mirrors ~ an artist retreat center founded by visionaries, Allyson & Alex Grey. It is here that was exposed to so many inspiring artists that had a collaborative & supportive attitude rather than being in competition. This is where I honed in on my body painting skills, as I shared this offering at all the public community events. This is also where I met legendary painting maestra, Amanda Sage. Once the pandemic hit and society radically changed at the beginning of 2020, she sparked an online art community known as the ‘Vision Train’. This is now a 24/7 virtual art studio on ZOOM, where global artists are welcome to come create, paint. learn, share, connect & vision a brighter future together. Without these positive support networks, my life would likely be a whole lot dimmer. I also give thanks to my amazing partner Ben ‘Smiley’ Silverstein, who is a talented musician and has always encouraged my artistic dreams. Witnessing him dedicate so much energy to producing and playing music with his band ‘The Main Squeeze’ inspires me greatly and was a key factor 10 years ago when I first decided to pursue art full time.

Website: http://www.carenchroma.com

Instagram: @carenchroma

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/carenchroma

Image Credits
Personal Photo by : Melissa Robin & #3 (The Main Squeeze band) by : Melissa Robin

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