Pheromones is an ongoing series of AI assisted illustrations exploring attraction, intimacy, and the subtle dialogue between humans and the natural world. The work reflects on how invisible signals shape relationships, drawing inspiration from the biological concept of pheromones as a metaphor for emotional and sensory connection. Created by visual artist Sombra, who recently relocated from California to Richmond, the series reflects a moment of transition and exploration, both geographically and artistically.

The images are developed through a hybrid creative process that blends traditional artistic exploration with contemporary generative tools. Each piece begins with loose sketching and photographic studies to establish composition, gesture, and spatial balance. From there, generative AI is used as a visual exploration engine to experiment with unexpected combinations of forms, textures, and patterns. The results are then refined through digital illustration, where color, line, and atmosphere are carefully shaped into the final artwork.

This oscillation between mediums allows intuition and technology to interact throughout the process. Rather than replacing traditional methods, AI becomes one layer within a broader artistic workflow that includes drawing, photography, and digital craft.

The series is produced as premium giclée satin prints (11 × 14 inches) and is currently available at STUFF-RVA and DAGNABIT! shops in Richmond. Each print is part of the Pheromones series and is individually numbered.