Creativity

Interview with Nicole Ruggiero /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Nicole Ruggiero in her New York home studio.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Nicole Ruggiero, a 3D artist based in New York. Nicole's work, inspired by video games and the internet, explores the intersection of technology and culture. During our conversation, Nicole discusses her journey into digital art, emphasizing the role of online forums in shaping her early experiences. We also explore her recent projects, including an animated series called Wish ‘N Wash, set in a late/post-capitalist society. Nicole shares her insights on the evolving role of digital and 3D art, noting a shift towards exploring nostalgia in various forms.

Click on this image for more information and to register.

Nicole and I are teaming up for the "Mixing Digital and Physical Worlds Workshop" on Dec 16, 2023, at 9 am PST / Noon ET. Join us for a 1.5-hour exploration of tools for 3D and 2D art, NFTs, and bridging the digital-physical gap. Engage in a discourse on web3, blockchain, and NFTs. This donation-based workshop ($11 - $33) ensures accessibility for all and nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.

You can learn more and register for it here.

My Interview with Nicole

1. Would you mind introducing yourself and letting us know a little bit about you and your work?

Hi I'm Nicole! I make 3D art about the internet and technology. I've always loved connecting with people through tech and I love adding a bit of warmth to something that can typically feel pretty cold.

2. Is there a reason you started to work digitally? What has that journey been like for you?
That's a good question. I actually started making digital art when I was about 12.  Before that I didn't really have anyone to show my work to, but being on online art forums made me feel pretty excited to share my work and get critique.

3. Is there a recent project you’ve done that you’re particularly proud of? If so, why?
Recently I've been working on this animated series with my partner, PLANTTDADDII, called the Wish ‘N Wash.  It's about a late/post-capitalist society, in a world where soap is scarce so people go to the local Wish N Wash laundromat and casino to win soap and wash their clothes.

I also have another WindowsXP themed piece that I’m coming out with sometime in January that I’m pretty excited about.

Collaboration with PLANTTDADDII, 2022, sold on SuperRare & 2/2 editioned prints.

4. Could you share your perspective on the role of digital and 3D art in the contemporary art world and how it has evolved over the years?
Originally I think 3D art was somewhat of a novelty. Now I'm seeing a lot of people making work with different forms of 3D nostalgia whether that be for video games or for previous digital eras. And, of course, 3D technology is heavily used in the metaverse or in digital worlds.

5. What advice would you give to emerging artists who are looking to make their mark in the world of 3D and digital art, considering your own journey and success in this field?
Right now, I feel like there are two pathways. The first pathway is to play into social media algorithms. The second pathway is getting into NFTs and related communities. The former is more client-focused, and the latter is more artwork-focused. I think a mixture of both is a good balance if you can manage it.

6. As a 3D visual artist, your work often blurs the line between the virtual and physical worlds. How do you see the future of art evolving in the context of emerging technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality?
I was just talking to my partner about this and we were talking about how one day we're going to have to explain to younger generations what a mouse cursor was LOL. I mean we're already seeing this, for example, with Meta and Ray-Ban’s collaboration on the smart glasses.

7. Collaboration and curation are part of your creative portfolio. Could you share an experience or project that challenged your artistic boundaries and pushed you to explore new creative territories?
I think the Wish ‘N Wash is something that has really pushed me. For the onset of this project I decided to sculpt and rig all of my characters from scratch and that's been a huge creative journey. First, I had to learn all the tools to do this and then I had to execute it. I'm still learning how to do all this. Sometimes it's discouraging but it’s also rewarding. I'm always getting better and trying my best.

8. What are some of the things that inspire you and/or your art?
I'm really inspired by computer user interfaces, video game characters, cities and neon lights, sci-fi, and good storytelling.

9. What do you hope people take away from connecting with your artwork?
I think ultimately I really want people to emotionally connect with my work.

10. How can people work with you? What’s the best way to learn more about your art?
I’m open for commissions and freelance starting in December! I have done a lot of album covers, music videos, character design, motion design, & 3D generalist work. People can find more about me on my website: https://www.nicoleruggiero.com or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleruggiero or Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/_nicoleruggiero.

The best way to contact me is my email: nicole@nicoleruggiero.com

Behind the Scenes of Mz Neon's "So Far" Music Video /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Click on this image above to watch Mz Neon - So Far (Official Music Video)

I am beyond excited to share my extraordinary experience as a back-up dancer in Mz Neon's revolutionary music video, "So Far." This is more than just a video – it's a powerful statement about the struggles and triumphs faced by the trans and gender-expansive community, particularly in the United States amidst the alarming surge of anti-trans rhetoric, discriminatory laws, and heartbreaking violence. Join me as I take you on a profound journey behind the scenes of this impactful creation.

**A Vision of Empowerment and Inclusion**

Directed by the brilliant duo Allen Henson and Mz Neon, "So Far" transcends the boundaries of music videos. It's a visual and auditory masterpiece that brings to light the challenges that the trans and gender expansive community navigates daily. Mz Neon's meticulous attention to art direction, set design, and wardrobe choices ensured that every element conveyed the message of resilience and empowerment.

**Strength in Unity**

The video boasts an impressive lineup of talents, each playing a vital role in conveying the song's powerful message. Alongside Mz Neon, the video features artists like Tricky Youth, Dagger Polyester, Clem Goldberg, Lilian Void, Love Bailey, Emily Lucid, Sasha Forests, Drew Arriola Sands, and numerous others who contribute to the video's diversity and depth. It was an absolute honor to share the stage with such a passionate and talented group of individuals.

**Voicing Resilience**

The lyrics of "So Far" are a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by the trans and gender expansive community. The song emphasizes the importance of fighting back, standing tall against adversity, and embracing our authentic selves. As a back-up dancer, I felt an incredibly deep connection to these themes, moving in harmony with a group of individuals unafraid to defy the bigotry and transphobia that is running rampant in this country and around the globe.

**Portraying the Journey**

The music video beautifully encapsulates the song's core message. Through choreography and cinematography, it vividly depicts the struggles and triumphs that the marginalized community experiences. Each scene tells a story of resilience and strength, offering a window into the indomitable human spirit.

**An Anthem of Empowerment**

"**So Far**" transcends its role as a song; it's a rallying cry, a call to arms, and a celebration of the diverse tapestry of identities. The chorus resonates with the idea that, even amid adversity, we stand strong and committed. The song's authenticity and raw emotion make it an anthem of empowerment for everyone within the trans and gender expansive community.

**A Heartfelt Thank You**

My gratitude knows no bounds as I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mz Neon, Allen Henson, and the entire team for allowing me to be a part of this profound undertaking. I also want to acknowledge my fellow dancers, the talented artists, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to breathe life into this video. Your passion and dedication shine brightly.

**A Call to Stand Strong**

"In the face of adversity, an act of defiance..." These words now hold even more weight for me after my involvement in "So Far." This video is a reminder that embracing our identities and fighting for justice is a revolutionary act in itself. Let's celebrate our diversity, challenge injustice, and continue pushing boundaries in the face of adversity.

Don't miss out on experiencing the impactful music video "**So Far**" available on all major streaming platforms here. It's a testament to resilience, a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for change.






Unframed: Exploring the Profound Inspiration Behind 'Standing on the Ground with Your Body in the Sky' Performance Workshop at LACMA /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Dear friends,

I am absolutely thrilled to share some extraordinary news with you all. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has just published an enthralling blog post on their renowned platform, Unframed. The talented Elizabeth Gerber has eloquently crafted this post, beautifully capturing the essence of my upcoming performance workshop, "Standing on the Ground with Your Body in the Sky." It's an immense honor to see my work acknowledged and celebrated in such a profound manner.

In this captivating blog post, I had the opportunity to delve into the depths of inspiration that led me to create this transformative workshop. It all began with a pivotal moment from my past, a life-altering encounter within the very walls of LACMA. The museum served as the catalyst, igniting my passion for art and guiding me on a path of exploration and self-discovery. This workshop marks a poignant full-circle moment, allowing me to share the profound impact LACMA had on my artistic journey.

"Standing on the Ground with Your Body in the Sky" is not just a workshop; it's an invitation to transcend traditional boundaries and immerse ourselves in the transformative power of creativity. By embracing a wide range of artistic practices, we can envision alternate histories and futures, amplifying our collective voices and effecting meaningful change. Art, as I firmly believe, is both political and powerful, capable of reshaping lives through unconventional means.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support you have shown. The response to this workshop has been incredible, and we are nearing capacity. However, I am committed to ensuring that no one misses out on this transformative experience. If you were unable to secure tickets, please reach out to me by Wednesday morning. I may be able to assist you in joining us on this profound journey.

I am overflowing with excitement as we prepare to gather at LACMA tomorrow for an unforgettable celebration of art and performance. Let us come together, embrace the transformative power of creativity, and forge connections that transcend boundaries.

Join me as we make our mark in the vibrant Los Angeles art scene and ignite a collective spark of inspiration.

#LACMA #UnframedBlog #PerformanceArt #FullCircleMoment #TranscendentalPainting #ArtAndPolitics #EdgarFabianFrias #LAArtScene #LosAngeles

Chosen by the People: Celebrate Pride 2023 with LGBTQIA+ Small Businesses Nominated by the Community /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

In our quest to uplift and support LGBTQIA+ small businesses, we reached out to our amazing Instagram followers for their recommendations. This is an opportunity to embrace the true spirit of Pride by shopping small and directly supporting businesses owned by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Together, let's move beyond the rainbow-washing efforts of larger corporations and instead celebrate the authentic voices and stories behind these businesses. As an LGBTQIA+ small business owner myself, I, Edgar, believe in the power of building networks of resiliency with others. So, please join the conversation by commenting below and sharing more businesses you would like to highlight. Together, let's make a difference and celebrate Pride 2023 with these remarkable entrepreneurs.

Without further ado, here are queer, trans, and gender-expansive small businesses chosen by you:

Milk Thistle Apothecary and Gallery - Discover the enchanting world of Milk Thistle, an apothecary, gallery, and community workshop space located just outside Joshua Tree National Park in Yucca Valley, California. Step into the realm of tarot readings available by appointment or as drop-ins from Friday to Sunday, and let the cards illuminate your path. Immerse yourself in the Hi-Desert Zine Zone Library, a captivating collection of zines from local artists and creators. Embracing creativity and collaboration, Milk Thistle plans to host regular workshops, events, and pop-ups featuring talented creators near and far. If you're interested in hosting a workshop or showcasing your creations, don't hesitate to reach out to them!

STEM Handmade Soap - Born out of a simple science experiment in the basement of Dave and Steve's Lakewood, Ohio home, has blossomed into a thriving venture. With Steve's background in biochemistry and 18 months of extensive research and feedback, they crafted the perfect bar of all-natural soap. The positive response from customers led to the expansion of their product line, as additional all-natural skincare solutions were developed and added to their website. As demand grew, STEM Handmade Soap relocated to a dedicated small building in Lakewood, Ohio, where every product is meticulously handmade from start to finish. Their skincare products are scented with essential oils, providing an aromatherapy experience, and formulated with natural, skin-loving ingredients that are both beneficial for your skin and environmentally friendly. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for its specific purpose of helping your skin reach its full potential and maintain its radiance. STEM Handmade Soap believes that caring about what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it.

https://www.trialanderror.art/

Trial and Error Art - by the talented artist Naima Lowe, a creative force based in Tulsa, OK. Naima is the mastermind behind the brand. Trial and Error is more than just a project—it's an experiment in connecting Naima's artwork directly with consumers. Taking risks and embracing the concept of failing better, Trial and Error embodies the spirit of artistic exploration. Prints, scarves, and stickers are expertly crafted at Flash Flood Print Studios in Tulsa, while other items are sourced through print-on-demand services from suppliers worldwide. Naima Lowe is not only a prolific artist but also a Black queer disabled writer, whose work draws from improvisational and collaborative strategies rooted in the alchemic survival practices of Black cultural production. With an impressive array of accolades, exhibitions, and artist residency fellowships under her belt, Naima continues to push boundaries and challenge norms through her transgressive and radical traditions of Black utterance. Embracing improvisation as a liberatory praxis, her performances, texts, and videos explore themes of love, desire, and personal narratives, infusing them with ritual, music, and the ethos of inclusivity and community care. Step into the world of Trial and Error Art and experience the vibrant expressions of Naima Lowe's creative journey.

Cosmic Cousins - Discover the transformative and intuitive practices of Jeff Hinshaw (he/they), a seasoned practitioner with over a decade of experience in tarot, astrology, and somatic healing. Grounded in reverence for the elements, nature, the Earth, and Spirit, Jeff's unique expertise in ritual, tarot, and astrology guides individuals on profound journeys of self-exploration, transformation, and healing. As the host of the enlightening podcast Cosmic Cousins, Jeff facilitates a deeper connection to the Moon and the current astrological transits, offering valuable insights on each New and Full Moon. Jeff's Brooklyn Fools: Tarot Journey, a 22-week ritual gathering through the Major Arcana of the tarot, has earned acclaim as a "radical tarot school" by National Geographic, fostering a vibrant Tarot Community since 2014. Passionate about upgrading archetypes for collective intention, Jeff has embarked on community projects like Zodiac Queens and authored the book Aries, published through Sterling Publishing House.

https://msteabotanica.com/elixirs/hedge-tonic

Ms. Tea Botanica - Discover the inspiring work of Ms Tea Botanica, a bioregional herbalist, medicine maker, and visual creative dedicated to supporting people of all genders and levels of access to care. Operating within an anti-oppression, liberationist framework, Ms Tea Botanica offers a safe and non-judgmental space, free from hierarchies of health/illness. Their practice encompasses various aspects of healing, addressing physical and energetic patterns such as sleep, digestion, musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, respiratory care, grief, trauma, sexual violence, and intergenerational harm. With an apothecary of handcrafted and ethically sourced herbs, including a medicinal herb garden and native plant stewardship, Ms Tea Botanica fosters regenerative and reciprocal relationships with the magic of both the human and more-than-human worlds. Grounded in humility and accountability, Ms Tea Botanica actively dismantles oppressive systems and works towards collective liberation. Through sliding scale consults, redistribution of resources, community care, and solidarity projects, they strive to repair injustice and build resilient communities. With a deep commitment to ethical sourcing, cultural and spiritual respect, and dismantling colonial frameworks, Ms Tea Botanica is a beacon of inclusivity and healing in the health and wellness space.

All She Wrote Books - an intersectional, inclusive feminist and queer bookstore that is dedicated to supporting, celebrating, and amplifying underrepresented voices. With a thoughtfully curated selection of books spanning across all genres, All She Wrote Books is a haven for book lovers seeking diverse narratives and perspectives. By shopping with them, you not only indulge in the joy of reading but also contribute to a space that fosters inclusivity, representation, and social change. Join the movement and support this inspiring bookstore as they continue to champion marginalized voices and create a more equitable literary landscape.

Brujita Skincare - Indulge in the enchanting world of Brujita Skincare, a Latina LA-based brand that proudly celebrates the unique souls that the conventional beauty industry often overlooks. With a commitment to sustainability, Brujita Skincare sources the majority of its ingredients from the vibrant city of Mexico, crafting a range of exquisite products including organic and unrefined masks, cleansers, hand care, healing balms, and lip balms. Discover your perfect skincare match by taking the captivating Brujitas Skin Quiz, tailored to your individual needs.

http://spellboundsky.com/bio

Spellbound Sky - Mark Phillips and Martin Anguiano have manifested their destiny by creating a captivating space brimming with love, magic, and boundless positive energy. Former fashion designers turned spiritual entrepreneurs, their shared fascination with the metaphysical led them to embrace crystals as their ultimate obsession. In 2011, Spellbound Sky emerged as a haven to share their profound love for crystals and the mystical realms, while staying true to their modern and free-spirited vision. Year after year, Mark and Martin inspire and empower their community, providing the wisdom and tools necessary to unlock unlimited potential and transform dreams into reality. Prepare to be spellbound by the wonders of Spellbound Sky, where the sky truly is the limit in your spiritual journey.

Otherwild - a queer-identified woman-owned store, design studio, and event space that centers ethics at the heart of its business. Established in 2012 within a diverse community of artists and designers, Otherwild is dedicated to showcasing thoughtfully crafted goods made with care by individuals. With a focus on beautiful and well-designed products, they also offer refillable bulk home cleaning and personal care items, as well as lo/no-waste reusables under the name Otherwild General. Their passion for the handmade extends to their own line of apparel and home goods, produced independently and collaboratively. With an unwavering commitment to an ethically-sourced supply chain, Otherwild strives to cultivate a counter-cultural approach to exploitative consumer capitalism. They provide sustained support to their staff, vendors, and suppliers, and actively contribute to grassroots activist and social justice organizations through their Anotherwild Fund.

Wolfe Video - For over three decades, Wolfe Video has been passionately serving audiences as the largest exclusive distributor of LGBT films. With a commitment to showcasing these stories to the widest possible viewership, Wolfe engages through film festivals, theatrical and non-theatrical releases, broadcast, DVD, and digital platforms. Their extensive catalog includes not only their own Wolfe label films, available on DVD and digital but also thousands of other LGBT titles. As a pioneering force in the industry, Wolfe continues to make a difference inside and outside of the entertainment business, offering a diverse selection of movies that resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Phluid Project - At The Phluid Project, they are more than just a fashion brand. They are a movement. Founded in 2018, they dissolve the artificial boundaries of gender, skin color, and status. They believe in embracing their true selves and breaking down societal barriers. With a focus on community, activism, and education, they celebrate inclusivity and value every individual, regardless of body, size, ability, race, gender, faith, or nationality. Their completely gender-free fashion reflects their mission to empower and amplify underrepresented voices. Through partnerships and collaborations, they expand their reach and shape a more inclusive future for all. Join them on this empowering journey of self-expression and celebrate your authentic self with their diverse collections of gender-free clothing and accessories.

https://www.theyfriendcandles.com/shop-1/p/palm-g4gbp

Theyfriend Candles - Theyfriend Candles is a queer, nonbinary, and trans-owned candle venture that combines witchcraft and sustainability. Each candle is handcrafted and enchanted by Rune Rainwater, a Kirkean witch and Tarot reader. Theyfriend prioritizes a non-extractive relationship with crafting materials, using sustainable ingredients like beeswax and hemp wicks. Synthetic dyes and oils are replaced with food-grade sustainable dyes, and eco-friendly packaging is encouraged for reuse in witch work. Following astrology and astroherbology, they offer astroherbalist candles aligned with specific planetary influences. Empowered with Kirkean spell work, these candles are designed to assist with spells, blessings, and more. As a one-witch show, Rune pours their energy and expertise into every candle, fostering an accessible and non-exploitative approach. Embracing pleasure-based Kirkean Witchcraft, Theyfriend Candles invites you to enhance your own witchy power with their enchanting creations.

Chef Joya - Adjoa Courtney, known as "Chef Joya," is a culinary mastermind who transforms ordinary recipes into extraordinary culinary creations. Raised vegan since childhood, Joya drew inspiration from her grandmother's kitchen in Milwaukee, WI, and sought out authentic recipes from elders in her community. With a passion for plant-based cuisine, she began hosting dinner parties that left guests in awe and soon gained popularity through vlogs and cooking lessons on Instagram. Joya's specialty lies in "veganizing" traditional dishes, bringing flavors from diverse cultural backgrounds to her repertoire. As a personal chef, she shares her expertise with other chefs, bridging the gap between vegan and non-vegan culinary experiences. Chef Joya's vibrant and unique approach to food has earned her recognition as one of the top vegan culinary artists in the United States. Whether through her travels, restaurant collaborations, or online platforms, she continues to captivate hearts and taste buds with her delicious and magical meals.

Automic Gold - Al Sandimirova, an Indigenous, queer, Trans, non-binary refugee, is the visionary Founder and Jewelry Designer behind Automic Gold. After immigrating to the U.S. in 2009, they embarked on a journey in metal smithing and jewelry design, driven by a desire to challenge the industry's narrow standards. Feeling that jewelry often neglected inclusivity, Sandimirova established Automic Gold as a brand that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Their commitment to accessibility is reflected in the brand's offerings, catering to all genders, skin tones, and sizes. In a deliberate move towards authenticity, Sandimirova selects models who embody these values and refrain from retouching their photos. With Automic Gold, they have created a platform where everyone's voice is heard and represented, empowering individuals to embrace their unique identities.

NOTO Botanics - NOTO Botanics emerged from a transformative journey of self-reflection and a desire for authentic representation. After a soul-searching trip to Thailand, the founder, a fashion and celebrity makeup artist, envisioned creating a line that celebrated the spectrum of identities often overlooked in the clean beauty industry. Launching NOTO in their own kitchen, they poured their decade+ of expert experience into developing a multi-use, gender-inclusive, and clean cosmetic line. NOTO's products are formulated with simple yet high-performing ingredients, promising transformative results with regular use. Embracing the power of self-expression, NOTO champions individuality and fosters a creative and mindful community. With a commitment to representation, customer satisfaction, clean ingredients, and giving back, NOTO Botanics embodies a holistic approach to beauty that is both vegan and cruelty-free.

I'm hosting a Performance Workshop at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art! (LACMA) /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Photo of Edgar Fabián Frías, courtesy of the artist; Agnes Pelton, Winter, 1933, Crocker Art Museum Purchase; Paul LeBaron Thiebaud, George and Bea Gibson Fund, Denise and Donald C. Timmons, Melza and Ted Barr, Sandra Jones, Linda M. Lawrence, Nancy

Photo of Edgar Fabián Frías, courtesy of the artist; Agnes Pelton, Winter, 1933, Crocker Art Museum Purchase; Paul LeBaron Thiebaud, George and Bea Gibson Fund, Denise and Donald C. Timmons, Melza and Ted Barr, Sandra Jones, Linda M. Lawrence, Nancy Lawrence and Gordon Klein, Nancy S. and Dennis N. Marks, William L. Snider and Brian Cameron, Stephenson Foundation, Alan Templeton, A.J. and Susana Mollinet Watson, and other donors

Standing on the Ground with Your Body in the Sky: Performance Workshop with Edgar Fabián Frías

In conjunction with the exhibition Another World: The Transcendental Painting Group, 1938–1945, join artist Edgar Fabián Frías for a performance workshop exploring ways art can be used in individual and collective journeys to connect mind, body, spirit and creativity.

Taking place at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art LACMA on:

Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at 6 P.M.

Please RSVP by click on the link below:

https://www.lacma.org/event/standing-ground-your-body-sky

Ten Journal Prompts To Help You Get Unstuck, Figure Out Your Values, And Set Intention /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

I was recently interviewed by the incredible author Laura Pitcher on How To Prepare A Spiritual Bath With Intention for Nylon Magazine. It is also inspired by Tiktok’s #SpiritualBath trend and features myself, Porsche Little, and Semra Haksever of Mama Moon Candles.

Nylon Beauty Bath Candles Flowers Manifest Your Intentions With Tiktok's #Spiritualbath Trend Spiritual Practitioners Explain How to Prepare a bath with intention

SPIRITUAL PRACTITIONERS EXPLAIN HOW TO PREPARE A BATH WITH INTENTION.

In this article, I mention how one of the most important things in getting ready to draw a spiritual bath is to begin by setting an intention. This can sometimes be really clear and easy to do, but there are other times that you may feel confused about your intention or you may have a hard time figuring out what’s important at the moment.

From the article:

“The most important part of the process is being certain about what you intent to draw in. “It's important to get clear on what your intentions are first before doing anything,” says Edgar Fabián Frías, an indigenous Mexican artist and brujx who launched Our Sacred Web. This can be nearly any thing Frías explains: “Are you trying to draw a bath to relax? To manifest a new career? To inspire self-love, To draw in magic?” If you don’t know where to begin, they recommend journaling to uncover what it is you are hoping to achieve through the bath, before moving on to the next steps.”

Journaling can be a powerful practice to help you get grounded, and centered, and to help you tap into your intuition, your ancestors, guides, and your higher self. With this in mind, I thought I would share some journaling prompts that can help you get into the flow.

Journaling Prompts to Help You Get Unstuck

To start, I wanted to share some creative writing prompts that can help you get into the flow or writing and explore your imagination and creativity. Feel free to adapt these as you see fit and use them as a way to get into the flow before you start to ask more pointed questions about your intentions.

  1. Imagine yourself as a character in a book. What kind of story would you be in? What challenges would you face, and how would you overcome them?

  2. Choose a random object in your environment and write a story about it. Where did it come from? Who owned it before you? What adventures has it been on?

  3. Write a letter to your younger self. What advice or encouragement would you give? What lessons have you learned that you wish you knew back then?

  4. Create a bucket list of things you want to do before you die. What experiences do you want to have, places do you want to visit, and people do you want to meet?

  5. Write a stream-of-consciousness narrative about your day. What did you do, see, and think about? What stood out to you?

  6. Make a list of your favorite quotes or passages from books, movies, or songs. What do they mean to you, and why do they resonate with you?

  7. Imagine yourself in a different era or time period. What would your life be like? How would your experiences and perspectives be different?

  8. Write a story that begins with the line, "Once upon a time, in a far-off land..."

  9. Choose a color and write about what it represents to you. What emotions, memories, or associations do you have with that color?

  10. Write about a place that inspires you. What do you see, hear, and feel when you're there? What memories or experiences does it bring up for you?

Journaling Prompts To Help Get Clear On Your Priorities & Values

  1. Write a letter to yourself five years from now. What do you hope to have accomplished by then? What do you want your life to look like?

  2. Choose a moment in your life that was particularly meaningful or transformative. Write about why that moment was important to you, and what lessons you learned from it.

  3. Make a list of your values and beliefs. What are the things that matter most to you? Why are they important?

  4. Write about a time when you had to make a difficult decision. What factors did you consider, and how did you ultimately make your choice?

  5. Imagine that you are at the end of your life, looking back on your journey. Write about what you would want to have accomplished, and what kind of legacy you would want to leave behind.

  6. Think about your ideal day. Write about what you would do, who you would be with, and what kind of experiences you would have.

  7. Write about a person who has been a positive influence in your life. What qualities do they possess that you admire? How have they impacted your life?

  8. Make a list of your goals and aspirations. What steps can you take to achieve them, and how will they help you live a more fulfilling life?

  9. Write about what you want your intention to be for a specific situation or event. What feelings or outcomes do you hope to cultivate, and what actions can you take to manifest them?

  10. Imagine that you have just won the lottery. Write about what you would do with the money, and why those things are important to you.

Journal Prompts To Help You Get Clear On Your Intention

  1. What is the purpose of this intention? Why is it important to me?

  2. What am I hoping to achieve or manifest through this intention?

  3. How will this intention align with my values and beliefs?

  4. What emotions or feelings do I want to experience as a result of this intention?

  5. What specific steps can I take to work towards this intention?

  6. How will this intention impact my life in a positive way?

  7. What are my fears or doubts about setting this intention, and how can I overcome them?

  8. How can I hold myself accountable for working towards this intention?

  9. What support or resources do I need to achieve this intention?

  10. How will I know when I have successfully fulfilled this intention?

Reflecting on these creative writing prompts has helped me realize the importance of clearly articulating your intention. To achieve this, I recommend boiling it down to just one sentence or a few words that capture the essence of what you want to manifest. Using an affirmation-style statement can also add power and possibility to your intention. Rather than stating “my intention is to become a successful artist”, I can declare “I am a successful artist” and repeat it out loud as a daily affirmation. By being clear and concise with my intention, I can focus my energy and attention on bringing it into reality.

Queer Magic - A Spell For Community! Open Call for LGBTQ+ artists living/working in New Mexico /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Happy Spring Equinox! We are so pleased to launch Edgar Fabian Frias's gif spell A Spell for Community, 2023 on CCA's social media to announce our Open Call for LGBTQ+ artists living/working in New Mexico. As part of the Queer Magic exhibition, this unjuried open call is intended to build inclusive community through the power of the social media algorithms, as well as Edgar's incredible magical and artistic practice.  

Click here to learn more about this open call and to apply!

A 3 card Tarot Reading for the City of LA EDGAR FABIÁN FRÍAS for Los Angeles Times /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Artist, therapist, brujx, and tarot reader Edgar Fabián Frías did a three-card tarot reading for the City of Los Angeles.

The three cards that appeared in the reading were: The World, The Hierophant, and the Ace of Cups.

Please listen to the video below to hear what this means for us in the upcoming future of the city of Angels.

Click below to see the Los Angeles Times article which includes original artwork by the artist Edgar Fabián Frías as well as a transcript of this tarot reading:

L.A. is due for a transformation. This three-card tarot reading will reveal what kind

https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/image/story/2022-08-17/artist-edgar-fabian-frias-gives-tarot-reading-for-los-angeles-transformation

This story is part of Image issue 12, “Commitment (The Woo Woo Issue),” where we explore why Los Angeles is the land of true believers.

Read the whole issue here: https://www.latimes.com/projects/commitment/

For more information about Edgar Fabián Frías, please click the link below: https://linktr.ee/edgarfabianfrias

Here is Edgar’s bio:

Edgar Fabián Frías works in installation, photography, video art, sound, sculpture, printed textiles, GIFs, performance, social practice and community organizing, among other forms. Their art addresses historical legacies and acts of resistance, resiliency and radical imagination within the context of Indigenous Futurism, spirituality, play, pedagogy, animism and queer aesthetics.

Born in East Los Angeles in 1983, Frías received dual bachelor of arts degrees in psychology and studio art from UC Riverside. In 2013, they received a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Portland State University in Portland, Ore., with an emphasis on interpersonal neurobiology and somatic psychotherapy. Frías received their master of fine arts in art practice from UC Berkeley in 2022. Their work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Vincent Price Art Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco, Oregon Contemporary, MOCA Jacksonville, Performance Is Alive, Project Space Festival Juárez and ArtBo. Their work has appeared in Cosmopolitan, Taschen, Bustle, Motherboard by Vice, Slate, CVLT Nation, Terremoto, Hyperallergic, and other publications.

Traducción en Español

Elle artista, terapeuta, brujx y tarotista Edgar Fabián Frías realizó una tirada de tarot de tres cartas para la Ciudad de Los Ángeles.

Las tres cartas que aparecían en la lectura fueron: El Mundo, El Hierofante y El As de Copas.

Escucha el video arriba para saber qué significa esto para nosotros en el futuro próximo de la ciudad de Angeles.

Haga clic a continuación para ver el artículo de Los Angeles Times que incluye obras de arte originales del artista Edgar Fabián Frías, así como una transcripción de esta lectura de tarot:

L.A. está por una transformación. Esta lectura de tarot de tres cartas revelará qué tipo

https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/image/story/2022-08-17/artist-edgar-fabian-frias-gives-tarot-reading-for-los-angeles-transformation

Esta historia es parte del número 12 de Image, "Commitment (The Woo Woo Issue)", donde exploramos por qué Los Ángeles es la tierra de los verdaderos creyentes.

Lea el número completo aquí: https://www.latimes.com/projects/commitment/

Para obtener más información sobre Edgar Fabián Frías, haga clic en el siguiente enlace: https://linktr.ee/edgarfabianfrias

Aquí está la biografía de Edgar:

Edgar Fabián Frías trabaja en instalación, fotografía, videoarte, sonido, escultura, textiles impresos, GIFs, performance, práctica social y organización comunitaria, entre otras formas. Su arte aborda legados históricos y actos de resistencia, resiliencia e imaginación radical dentro del contexto del futurismo indígena, la espiritualidad, el juego, la pedagogía, el animismo y la estética queer.

Nacido en el este de Los Ángeles en 1983, Frías recibió una doble licenciatura en psicología y arte de estudio de UC Riverside. En 2013, obtuvieron una maestría en consejería clínica de salud mental en la Universidad Estatal de Portland en Portland, Oregon, con énfasis en neurobiología interpersonal y psicoterapia somática. Frías recibió su maestría en bellas artes en práctica artística de UC Berkeley en 2022. Su trabajo se ha exhibido internacionalmente, incluso en el Museo de Arte Vincent Price, Instituto de Arte Contemporáneo de San Francisco, Oregon Contemporary, MOCA Jacksonville, Performance Is Alive, Project Space Festival Juárez y ArtBo. Su trabajo ha aparecido en Cosmopolitan, Taschen, Bustle, Motherboard by Vice, Slate, CVLT Nation, Terremoto, Hyperallergic y otras publicaciones.

tarot de los ángeles lectura gratis