A color video imaging system utilizing a cathode ray device with a target comprising an array of electrostatically deflectable light valves. The light valve structure and the arrangement of light valves as an array permits sequential activation of the light valves in response to a specific primary color video signal. The light valves are arranged in three element groupings, and a schlieren optical means is provided having respective primary color transmissive portions through which the light reflected from the deflected light valves is passed, to permit projection of a color image upon a display screen.