McLaren reveals Project Chromology and MSO finish by Nat Bowen

McLaren presents Project Chromology with Nat Bowen, detailing the new MSO chromatic layered finish for the 750S and its unique colour profiles worldwide.

McLaren Automotive has unveiled Project Chromology, a new interpretation of the 750S created in collaboration with British abstract artist Nat Bowen. Her multi-layered resin artworks and exploration of chromology, the psychology of colour, form the foundation of a project that translates artistic techniques into automotive design. This is not their first collaboration, as Bowen previously created an art version of the McLaren Artura presented in Dubai.

For the new project, McLaren Special Operations developed the Chromatic Layered Finish, a multi-layered translucent paint technique that builds depth and tonal variation through the interaction of light with the surface. For the first time at MSO, a subtle raised texture has been integrated into the paint layer, echoing the physical character of Bowen’s resin works and adding a three-dimensional quality to the finish.

Each 750S in Project Chromology receives a unique palette defined by an emotional profile. According to McLaren and Bowen, the selected colours reflect the owner’s mood and individuality, ranging from calm and contemplative tones to bold and energising combinations. This approach aligns with chromology, where colour is viewed as a medium of emotional expression.

The project also introduces MSO’s first hallmarked 24-carat gold-plated badging, applied to the front, sides and rear of the car. The backing colour of each badge is matched precisely to the central tone of the palette, ensuring a cohesive visual identity. Every commission is accompanied by an original artwork created by Bowen to mirror the vehicle’s chromatic theme.

Project Chromology debuted during Miami Art Week, a major global event in contemporary art that brings together galleries, collectors and brands exploring visual experimentation. The setting highlights McLaren’s focus on personalisation and the artistic dimension of automotive design, while MSO demonstrates its technical capabilities and new direction in material surface expression.

As art collaborations become increasingly prominent in the automotive world, Project Chromology illustrates how artistic practices can shape personalisation within high-performance vehicles. The project expands the possibilities of colour research in car design and reinforces MSO’s position in bespoke craftsmanship.