File:PerceptualColor.jpg

English: Objects reflect certain wavelengths of light to give a "color." This is a mere set of frequencies. The retina (cones) capture this. Certain neurons within "globs" of the inferior temporal cortex fire preferentially for certain hues (say, purple). These neurons are arranged with chromotopy (red next to orange next to yellow), and blue is placed next to red, so that in between these, the cortical color "purple" can arise. Hence, a "ring" is made. But, to "paint" consciousness itself, one more step may be requisite. So, however consciousness is painted, and however the spatial dimensions of that realm are made, vibrated (relative to the "viewer") in these directions to create color. Vibrations parallel to viewing axis would be white, and the cone would represent lighter colors. Black would be a given. Of course this is an idea only without substantiation. Theory discussed in Rings of Fire book by Brad Caldwell.