Reflections on My MFA Experience: Key Takeaways and Must-Know Tips for Future Artists

Reflecting on my MFA journey years after graduating, I see how much my viewpoint has evolved. Although my experience at UC Berkeley laid the groundwork, I aim to share insights with a wider lens, emphasizing the lessons that have influenced my development as an artist and providing practical advice for those on their own creative journeys.

My Nonlinear Path to Art Practice

One important lesson I’ve learned is that there isn’t a single "correct" approach to obtaining an MFA or building a career in the arts. My journey was not linear; I started with a master’s in counseling, applied to MFA programs, and faced several rejections before fully committing to my artistic practice. I aim to make this unconventional journey more approachable for those who feel bound to follow a traditional path. It’s perfectly acceptable to take alternative paths, try out different careers, and return to your passions when it feels right. In fact, those diverse experiences can profoundly enhance your art in unexpected ways.

Key Takeaways from My MFA Experience

During my graduate studies, I gained profound insights into the relationship between the physical and digital realms, as well as the material and conceptual aspects of art, and how interdisciplinary approaches can enhance creative output. I was fortunate to collaborate with remarkable faculty and peers, which created an environment for me to both challenge and broaden my artistic practice. Nonetheless, grad school also revealed some deep-seated insecurities I had regarding artmaking—anxieties, uncertainties, and societal expectations about what art should represent. Although this process was challenging, confronting those insecurities was crucial for my development as an artist.

Five Tips for Aspiring Artists and MFA Applicants

If you’re thinking about pursuing an MFA or are simply working on growing your practice, here are a few lessons I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Give Yourself Time and Space to Rest:
Following significant achievements, taking time to pause and reflect is important. In a world that often asks "What’s next?" it's vital to acknowledge that resting can also be productive. This becomes even more crucial when managing several projects or applications simultaneously.

2. Rejection Isn’t the End—It’s Part of the Process:
I applied to MFA programs multiple times before receiving my acceptance, and each rejection offered valuable lessons. It’s perfectly fine not to succeed on your first attempt. Continue to refine your vision and believe that the right opportunity will arrive when the time is right.

3. Diversify Your Portfolio (and Yourself):
When applying to graduate programs, ensure that your portfolio's top three images are strong and diverse. Highlight various projects to showcase your versatility as an artist. This principle extends to your life as well—celebrate your multifaceted identity. Engage in different roles, skills, and practices. You are not limited to a single identity, and it’s perfectly fine to follow non-linear paths. Sending much love to all my multi-hyphenate kin out there! If you see this, leave me a comment to let me know you’re here!

I also invite you to learn more about my MFA Art Portfolio that Led to Acceptance at UC Berkeley's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Art Practice Program!

4. Build a Supportive Network:
Graduate school connected me with a community of artists and mentors who still support my development. Whether it's through structured education or informal DIY environments, seek out your peers. Engage with those who inspire and challenge you—these connections are as vital as the technical skills you acquire.

5. Keep Pushing Boundaries:
The journey doesn’t end with a degree. Continue experimenting, learning, and evolving. Whether it's embracing new media, working across disciplines, or breaking down hierarchies in art, stay curious and open to growth.

Moving Forward

As I progress in my practice, I’m eager to delve deeper into materiality and sculpture while also broadening my digital work. For artists, charting their unique paths, embracing risks, making shifts, and redefining their own version of success is important. Whether you're applying to MFA programs or seeking personal growth, trust your intuition and continue to move ahead.

I’d be eager to learn about your creative journey! Which aspects of my MFA experience resonate with your current path?

Whether you’re contemplating an MFA application, developing your art portfolio, or finding a balance between rest and creativity, please share your thoughts or questions in the comments—I’m here to help! How do you approach applying to graduate programs or coping with the highs and lows of being an artist? If you’ve encountered challenges or celebrated successes, I’d love to hear about them. Let’s start a conversation about how we can support and grow alongside one another as artists. I look forward to reading your stories and insights!

Leave a comment below.

For even more intimate details about my journey and some major tips on applying to MFA programs, check out the video I’ve included above in this post. I share my personal experiences and additional insights that can help guide you on your creative path.

Subscribe to my newsletter to connect with me or explore how you can collaborate with me, including the option to hire me for one-on-one coaching. 

My Art Spells Are Now On The Moon!

I'm beyond thrilled to share that I've been selected as one of the 135 contemporary artists featured in the Arch Lunar Art Archive (ALAA), which has just made its historic landing on the moon aboard the Odysseus lander! 🚀

The ALAA, a project by the Arch Mission Foundation, is an extraordinary collection of contemporary art from 135 artists worldwide, extending humanity's cultural footprint into the cosmos.

This groundbreaking endeavor began during the challenges of Covid-19, aiming to capture the essence of our present moment through diverse artistic expressions. I'm deeply honored to be part of this global initiative, which brings together artists of varied backgrounds, ages, and mediums, reflecting the richness of our world.

Each artwork, including my own, is etched into nickel sheets using cutting-edge NanoFiche technology, ensuring its preservation for eons to come. Moreover, these artworks will be minted as NFTs, offering collectors a unique opportunity to support artists' practices in this new frontier.

Participating Artists

Aaron Naves

Adrian Pijoan

Alex Anderson

Alex Mackin Dolan

Alex Seton

Alice Wang

Allen Hung-Lun Chen

Allie Zhang

Amalia Ulman

Anarchy Dance Theatre

Andreas Rønholt Schmidt

Andrew Hahn

Andrew Norman Wilson

AP Nguyen

Asha Schecter

Asya Nur

Aura Rosenberg

Aushin Chang

Barak Zemer

Bart Seng

Bjarne Bare

Brigid Mason

Candice Jee with Yaya Huwat

Carol Strober

Casey Kauffmann

Chen Chien Jung

Chen Zi Yin

Chia Lee

Chris Hanke

Cindy Conrad

Dakota Blue

Danielle Dean

Donel Williams

Edgar Fabián Frías

Elliot Kaufman

Emily Yang 艾蜜莉

Emma Hazen

Erik Frydenborg

Erin Calla Watson

Ewa Wojciak

Filip Gilissen

Fiona Connor

Fung Yee Lick

Gabby Davis

Gauntlett Cheng

Giacomo Giannantonio

Gianna Surangkanjanajai

Gina Mei

Graham Epstein

Hanna Rose Stewart

Henri McMaster

Hooz

Horacio Alcolea Crespo

Ian Stanton

Idolate

Ilja Karilampi

Jacob Cruzen

Jared Madere

Jared Richardson (JVY)

Jasia Rabiej

Jason Meadows

Jasper Spicero

Jaybe Lee

Jeff Beall

Jeffrey Scudder

Jennifer Zhang

Jessica Hang

Johnny Forever Nawracaj (with sound by Gambletron)

Jon Pylypchuk

Jonathan Moore

JPW3

Julia Yerger

Juliana Halpert

Julie Lai

Kaiyen Tu

Kate Sansom

Kathy Haddad

Kent Twitchell

Lane Stewart

Lin Pei-Yao

Lindsay Lawson

Liya Yu

Liz Magic Lazer

Louie Shirase

Luis Serrano

Maria Petschnig

Martin Lammert

Mathias Toubro

Matt Siegle

Matthew Cherrie

Michael Pollard

Ming Yao Chang

Mitchell Syrop

MM33

Mooncat

Nao Bustamante

Natalie Astraea

Negashi Armada + Mickey Goodman

Ni Hao

Nick Hamburger

OUCHHH

Olammy

Paige K.B.

Paulson Lee

Peggy Peiting Huang

Peter Schulman

Rachel Zaretsky Radimir Koch

Ralph Kuo Chiang Wu

Rasmus Røhling

RESEARCH Publications

Retro1999

Robin Sparkes

Sam Anderson

Sam Mason

Sarah Rara

Scott Benzel

Scroll

Seyoung Yoon

Shana Moulton

Shang-Ru Lin

Shang-Yang Wu

So Youn Lee

Sylvia Hardy

Anna Lind-Guzik (The Conversationalist)

Tobias Sprichtig

Tore Wallert

Travis Diehl

Viola Morini

Wednesday Kim

Will Wharton

Wyatt Naoki Conlon

X-TRA and Project X Foundation For Art And Criticism

Zhuxue Deren

Zuzanna Bartoszek

Being part of this project is a dream come true, and I'm excited about the possibilities it holds for the future of art and exploration. 🎨✨

An example of one of the artworks of mine that is now on the moon.

Stay tuned for updates on the ALAA and its upcoming NFT releases. And if you're curious to explore the archive or join the conversation, check out the links below! 👇

An example of one of the artworks of mine that is now on the moon.

Website: lun.art Community Discord: discord.gg/uvFsFtqgBG Medium: @arch-lunar-art-archive Instagram: @arch_lunar_art_archive X: x.com/arch_lunar Farcaster: warpcast.com/art-archive

I have been selected to be a part of LA County's PAiD Artist Council!

Cover Image (top left to right): Adee Roberson, Noé Montes, Terrick Gutierrez, Brianna MacGillivray, Michelle Sui, Edgar Fabián Frías, Grace Ramirez Gaston, Emily Womack, Allie Ihm, Jazmín Urrea. Not pictured: Dominique Moody, Star Montana, and Pat Gomez.

I'm absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news with you all. Drumroll, please... I've been selected as one of the inaugural members of the Public Artists in Development (PAiD) program's Artist Council! 🥳 Being part of this prestigious cohort feels like a dream come true, and I couldn't be more honored to join such a talented group of individuals.

Let me introduce you to my fellow council members: Adee Roberson, Dominique Moody, Jazmín Urrea, Michelle Sui, Noé Montes, Star Montana, and Terrick Gutierrez. Each of us comes from diverse artistic backgrounds, united by our passion for promoting the growth and empowerment of underrepresented artists in Los Angeles County. Throughout this blog post you’ll see photos from our wonderful kick-off event at Los Angeles State Historic Park!

The PAiD program is a beacon of hope for artists facing barriers to participation in Civic Art and the wider public art sphere. It's designed not only to address these obstacles but also to pioneer new practices that better cater to artists' needs. As part of the Artist Council, I'll be engaging in profound discussions with fellow artists, experts in various fields, and public art administrators. Together, we aim to craft recommendations that will enhance Civic Art practices and provide valuable resources to our Los Angeles arts community.

But that's not all! Each council member, including myself, will also embark on a journey to develop a temporary public art project. These projects will not only serve as a creative outlet but also allow us to delve deeper into the topics we discuss within the program.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for making this program possible. Their support is invaluable in fostering the growth and success of artists like myself. Additionally, a big shoutout to Dyson & Womack for their role in developing and managing the Artist Council. Your dedication to the arts is truly inspiring.

I can't wait to embark on this journey with my fellow council members and see where it takes us. Together, we'll be making waves in the art world and championing the voices of underrepresented artists.

Stay tuned for updates on my PAiD journey! And once again, thank you all for your unwavering support. Let's make some art! 🎨

Photos provided by LA County Arts.

New Moon Spell For Empathic Care ❤️‍🔥

“Everything we do to help each other is an act of resistance”

- Beverly Smith (from New Moon Magic: 13 Anti-Capitalist Tools for Resistance and Re-Enchantment)

Today's New Moon in Scorpio marks a transformative celestial dance, akin to a scorpion shedding its exoskeleton. Embrace Scorpio's potent energy tied to authenticity, truth, love, and courage. Channel this intensity into a spell, envisioning yourself as a conduit for empathic care that extends beyond personal boundaries.

Picture this compassionate energy field as a dynamic force—a collective tide of love merging with intentions worldwide. Let this spell be a catalyst for positive change, a ripple of kindness weaving through humanity's interconnected web.

Whether practicing alone or with companions, Scorpio's power thrives in collective experiences. Energetically invite others through methods like bibliomancy or a symbolic calling in of their energies. Join forces in person or virtually via Zoom or Facetime. Together you amplify your magic and add potency to your spellwork.

Today's New Moon in Scorpio calls us to be architects of compassionate change. Use the energy of death and rebirth, truth, love, and courage to cultivate care beyond our immediate sphere. Embrace celestial synergy and uncover the alchemy of connection and collective compassion.

A new moon signifies renewed optimism, a time to gather energy for the upcoming weeks. It fosters self-reflection, clarifying desires for contribution, and reception from the world. This phase is ideal for divination and imaginative exploration, envisioning and manifesting a change process.

How to begin

Gather the following materials (all materials are optional):

• Salt

• A white or black candle

• A bowl of water

• Crystal and/or plant friends who want to join & support (e.g. watermelon tourmaline, figs, pomegranates, rose quartz)

• A few books for bibliomancy and/or your trusted tarot or oracle cards

• Your journal or a notepad and a pen

Find a place that feels safe and secure. This could be in your bedroom, next to a tree friend in the forest, or in a private Zoom call with your closest friends. Set aside 10 - 30 minutes for this ritual.

How to begin

Start the spell by casting a circle of protection around you and anyone who is joining you. You can do this by physically creating a circle of salt around you and/or the candle you are using in this spell. You can also do this by taking a moment to visualize a circle of energy surrounding you and anyone else you want to bring into the center of this circle.

You can also use this time to cleanse the space with aura mists, crystal clearings, smudgings, bells, or prayers and affirmations.

Light the candle when you are ready. Let the spirit realm know you are ready to commune.

Check-in and connect

Take a moment and check in with yourself and/or each other. What are you feeling? How are you? Do you need anything right now? Feel free to use your notepad to take notes or write out reflections.

Ask for guidance

Turn towards bibliomancy and/or divination for sacred support. To work with bibliomancy, pick up a book you have brought into the circle and let yourself be guided to turn to a page and see what is the first thing that catches your eye. It could be a word or a phrase. How does it impact you? How does it make you feel? What comes up as a result? Again, feel free to use your notepad to take notes or write out reflections.

Similarly, if you are using tarot or oracle cards, I invite you to pull one card and take a moment to reflect on it. Let the card’s visuals and text connect with you deeply. What is real? What is authentic? What is here?

Feel free to pull another card for further guidance or clarification. Or do a three-card pull and assign meaning to the cards as you see fit (e.g. past-present-future, situation-intervention-outcome, desire-prayer-action, etc.)

Water Connects Us

Whenever you are ready, I invite you to hold the bowl of water you have in your hands. Or spend some time with your eyes closed and visualizing. I invite you to imagine your heart producing an electrical field of energy. This field can expand and contract with your intentions and desires. You can imagine this field of energy starting to expand to hold you and all your complexities. The parts of you that you love and admire about yourself and the parts of you that feel difficult to sit with or that you might even dislike. Imagine the water acting like an amplifying element, helping you expand and grow.

When you’re ready, imagine this field of compassionate caring energy starting to expand beyond your body and touching all those who are in your circle. The crystals, ancestors, plant kin, and other participants who are in this circle with you. Let your field of energy encompass them in all their complexities. Embracing and holding them.

From the circle, you will now imagine this force of love emanating outward from the circle. Touching your neighbors and their loved ones, touching those in your neighborhood, in your city, in your country. Let yourself envision this field of energy reaching out, moving at the speed of love, and touching, holding, and embracing, all those who need this energy right now. Let yourself embrace all living and non-living beings in all their complexity. Tune into your heart. Take deep breaths here.

Once you feel your energy field expand to connect with your whole country, imagine your field of compassionate care reaching out and touching other people in other countries. Countries that may be filled with joy, grief, pain, celebration, shock, and hope. Let your compassionate care touch this country and the living and non-living beings residing there. Let yourself hold everything you encounter in its fullness. In all its complexity. Share care. Share love. Breathe. Come back to your heart.

For the last part of this visualization, you can imagine your empathic field of energy expanding out to hold the entire planet and all its living and non-living beings in all their grand complexity and wholeness. Taking another deep breath, you can imagine this field of energy moving out to touch all the planets in our solar system as well as all the stars, meteors, comets, space trash, and dark matter that exists in this space. And, if you’re able to, you can envision this field expanding out from beyond the solar system and touching all the other galaxies and living and non-living beings that exist in our universe.

Grounding Your Care

Take a few more deep breaths. Let yourself come back to your body and being. Perhaps touch the floor or rub your hands together. Do something to let yourself know that you’re back. Spend a moment writing any reflections you have about that experience, any intentions, or prayers you want to share or remember.

I am a big believer in the fact that all things are spiritual. Spiritual practice is done in ceremony and it’s done every time we offer our love, attention, and care to others. Spiritual practice is washing your dishes, donating to an organization you support, and advocating for peace out on the street with others.

Below I offer a few options for groundign your spiritual practice with specific actions that demonstrate care. Please feel free to choose one that resonates with you and/or create your own!

Craft Art & Stories for Change - Use art and narratives to expose truths, challenge misinformation, and counter disinformation campaigns by powerful entities. As artists and storytellers, unite against the manipulation of truth and amplify silenced voices. Imagine alternative worlds through your creations, resisting the status quo and demanding accountability. Your creative power is a force for change, shaping a narrative that advocates for justice and equity. Remember that there are MILLIONS of dollars (if not more) being spent on paying creatives to promote war and justify it. Check out this great conversation starter article What Roles Does Art Play In Protest by Art 21.

Sustain Awareness and Engagement - Make a commitment to stay vigilant and engaged with the evolving situation in Palestine. Align yourself with credible news outlets to stay abreast of developments. In this ongoing lunar cycle of awareness, continue to advocate for change, ensuring your efforts remain tethered to the evolving needs of those affected by the conflict. Check out this video by Travelgrrl which shares some people and organizations to follow for up-to-date information about the ongoing situation Gaza. You can also visit Genocide Watch to learn about other unfortunate situations unfolding around the globe.

Nurture Economic Empathy - Plant the seeds of support by championing Palestinian businesses. Seek out and patronize Palestinian-owned enterprises, nurturing local economies and fostering growth within the region. Whether online or within the vibrant tapestry of local markets, your conscious consumerism becomes a beacon of solidarity. Here’s a list of 24 Palestinian-owned Brands to support.

Champion Transformation - With newfound awareness, become a catalyst for change in Palestine. Channel your energy into advocating for political reform—penned letters to elected representatives, the resonance of your signature on petitions, and active support for campaigns echoing the call for peace and justice. Elevate your voice to illuminate the plight of the Palestinians, contributing to the positive transformation of their circumstances. Check out this blog entry by Haute Hijab on how to contact your representatives and what to say.

Tax Magick - A lot of people are angry that we don’t get to decide if we want our tax dollars to be going toward funding war and genocide or towards basic needs we have both here in this country and elsewhere. I have definitely seen a lot more people talking about protest via Tax withholding or writing official letters of complaint. While this is not financial advice this is meant to get you to start thinking about this as a strategy/practice/tactic and for you to see how and if it makes sense for you and your situation. Check out this great resource from the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee. I have also seen some very interesting conversations happening on TikTok and Reddit that have gotten my gears going. I’m definitely doing my research on this one and would love to hear any thoughts you have!

Illuminate with Generosity - Let the glow of the hidden new moon inspire a gesture of generosity. Cast your contribution towards reputable organizations dedicated to providing humanitarian aid. Click here for a list of reputable places to donate to from NPR. Donate directly to Doctors Without Borders here.

Publicly Promote Harmony & Ceasefire - Traverse the city streets with a collective heartbeat resonating in unison for peace. Join the assembly of compassionate voices, echoing a fervent plea for an immediate ceasefire and a resolute commitment to diplomatic solutions. Let the streets become a canvas for peace, where your advocacy paints a compelling picture of a world united against the ravages of war. Find a protest near you here (this list has been getting updated frequently). Here are some protest tips & resources from NYU Law.

Conclusion & Future Offering

I cannot stress enough that protest & spellwork are creative spiritual practices! They are also emergent ones. Meaning that we can sometimes receive messages from within or without that share information about our next steps. That inspires us to dream and experiment with the ways in which our spellwork and protest take forms. I am hoping this New Moon spell can guide you in connecting with your own intuition and that you are able to explore and create the perfect containers and creations that you need at this moment. Remember there is no wrong or right way to do this. Listen to your intuition and ask for help and/or support if you need it!

And, if you are wanting a space to co-create art spells together in community I am offering a Full Moon Art Spell Ceremony for my subscribers on Instagram on Sunday, November 26, 2023 at 11 AM PST (and also available asynchronously). This is a perfect time to bring together any insights, downloads, or channelings you receive from this New Moon time up until the Full Moon as this lunar cycle is going to be RICH and DEEP with messages & moonifestations. Come make magic with me and others and help amplify the Art Spells you are making by creating them in a community of other witches!

You can join by clicking the subscribe button at the top right of my posts or on my Instagram profile page. If you found this helpful and are feeling called to send me a donation or energy exchange, please do so. Your support helps me continue to thrive and do this work.

Please also share this spell as a resource for others and sign up for my newsletter to receive future offerings & updates.

This spell is inspired by Risa Dickens & Amy Torok’s New Moon Magic: 13 Anti-Capitalist Tools for Resistance and Re-Enchantment.

Five Lessons I've Learned This Chariot Year 2023: Embracing Transformation and Growth

As the year of the Chariot draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the profound journey I've experienced over the past months. This period has been marked by a surge of learnings, energies, messages, and guidance that has led me to reorient and reorganize myself both internally and externally. The Chariot year has brought with it a series of powerful lessons, paving the way for transformation and growth in ways I could never have imagined. Here are five lessons I have been reflecting upon, receiving, working with, playing with, dancing with, etc. these past few months.

1. Change is holographic and nonlinear.

Change can happen in the most microscopic levels. From you taking a moment to make a different choice, access a different part of yourself, or choose a different path home, change can often feel small and incremental. Change can also happen all at once, like learning to cope and adapt after receiving a life-changing diagnosis, leveling up in your practice or career, taking a big risk, or going through a spiritual crisis. Change cannot be contained. It is messy, wild, and emergent. It has its own consciousness, its own process, and its own flow. Change is holographic as it touches everything. Change moves within and without. Change is the universe and the soul.

Change has an energy you can tune into and that you can speak with, commune with, and flow with. What does change feel and/or sound like for you? For me, it’s electrifying, tingly, uplifting, enlivening, and sentient. I feel it moving through my hands, my heart, my back, my neck, through my third eye. It has structure, scaffolding, and a certain sense of unfurling, reaching, stretching, and contracting. It asks you to listen, to be present, and to feel its presence.

It moves forward and not at all. It is nonlinear as it exists now, existed before, and will exist for time immemorial. It moves in cycles, in seasons, in waves, in moments of eruption and transcendence, and moves slowly, imperceptibly, in chthonic underground fermenting, rotting, interconnected ways. Change can feel like a river, it can feel like a trickle, like a big flow, like a void, or a pause. Change is mutable and mutates. Change will not stand still. What does change feel like for you?

2. What we feel and think matters deeply when it comes to making changes.

I’ve been sitting with the profound power that our feelings, emotions, stories, and imagination have when it comes to how change happens in our lives. The Chariot can often be associated with action, with taking the reins of life, and while that is an important aspect of this tarot card, it is also important to look at what is underneath our desires, our dreams, and, ultimately, our decisions. This year, I have been asked to take a deep look at my own motivations, catalysts, and the emotions and stories that I am consciously and unconsciously producing. It is challenging me to take risks, dream bigger, and expand my ability to tolerate the unknown, the seemingly impossible, and the great discomfort that comes with trying on new ways of existing, perceiving, thinking, and behaving. It is important to take action and it is important to ask ourselves why we are taking action. To look at the maps we are creating and to re-direct, re-draw the map, access other dimensions, and form new possibilities. It is also important to really take a look at what is fueling our Chariot. What is driving us? Why are we taking action?

3. There is control and there is allowing.

I have been directed to take expansive and microscopic looks at my life. To think about the next few decades and to make decisions in the present moment based on the goals, visions, fears, doubts, hopes, wishes, and desires I see moonifesting in them. This has helped me make some tough decisions and start to create structures, processes, and changes in my life that are reflecting this deep work and the insights I am receiving about the many paths my life is taking/will take. I have also been directed to trust. To let go of control. To allow and receive. To feel into the synchronicities that want to unfurl in my life. To enjoy the mistakes, the failures, the moments of serendipity and surprise that accompany this type of change. To know that there is control and there is allowing and that both of these energies are important. To try and find balance, flow, and enjoyment within these ways of being and doing.

4. Clarity and imagination are keys!

Keys are potent forces of fire in our lives. Keys help us unlock doors of possibility and they help us enter into other dimensions and other realms of being. Keys are psychic tools and psychic gifts. Clarity and imagination and two magical keys we are being called to connect with deeply.

Clarity allows us to see things clearly and to get specific. The devil is in the details and so is the divine. Let the universe know exactly what path(s) you see yourself on and what it is you are looking to bring into and/or change in your life. Write a list. Make a map. Draw up a plan. Put it in your calendar and check off those items on your checklist. These are the gifts of clarity.

Imagination on the other hand opens us up to possibility. It allows us to dream beyond the current constraints we may have or imagine possibilities emerging where we once could only see obstacles or limitations. Imagination is a realm of the unknown, and an invitation to pause, re-center, and tune into what is present and what is wanting to emerge, be born, and blossom. Imagination is closely connected to our intuition. It can sometimes want to be expressed through art, dance, song, somatics, poetry, breath, channeling, and other forms of non-linear and expansive containers. Our imagination should surprise us, confuse us, and make us wonder and reflect. These keys are, of course, not binaries and can sometimes mutate into each other and be a part of a similar tool and process.

5. Grief and change bloom together.

This one has been hard. But a big lesson I have been learning this year has been to truly sit with the grief of change. Of letting go of past versions of yourself, past relationships, or even stories that have provided us comfort, solace, and meaning. Grief means mourning the person we were, the possibilities we clung to before, and the existential worlds we created as a result. It means feeling the loss that comes with change. We cannot move forward without looking back and without acknowledging the sadness that emerges when we depart from somewhere with our chariot pointing in the direction of a different land, a different career, a different version of ourselves. Grief and growth are friends. They are mirrors of each other. We are blessed by their presence in our life and must learn to dance with them. They are here to teach, guide, clarify, enrich, soothe, transmute, and transform.

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As an added bonus, I am excited to say that a few folks from my newsletter have decided to share their own lessons and experiences from this year!

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Ohhhhhh soooo much, where do I even begin? How do I even put it into words?!

Everything is a sign

I often teeter between giving everything meaning and straight up nihilism. When I have that tickle in the back of my head asking if something happened because it was meant to be a message, I now embrace that notion. First of all… life is more fun when you believe it is magical, and you also never miss a message. This is true ESPECIALLY when you ask yourself “was that a sign?”

I am from the past and the future.

Not only do I represent what’s to come… one stroke beyond the pendulum of time that swings back and forth, but I am of the past… reflecting a time before colonialism and white power when my ancestors clung closer to their core and the earth and each other.

Every move in the physical world makes moves in the spirit world.

And vice versa. They are inextricably linked. Every chant, manifestation, dance, song, etc. effects all energies and spirits around me and connected to me. I’ve been “pushing” more than ever in the spirit world… and I have still yet to see its total progress in the physical world. So much has happened already!

Everything is a mirror because everything is me.

I look into the eyes of another and I greet myself, wishing myself a great day. I am happy for myself for having an experience, and sad when I’m stuck in a depression cycle. The collective mind is a humbling place to return to and remember.

I am creative because I am a creation.

I remember this when I feel a lack of creativity flow.

The tools I need in life are easily accessible to me… almost like I can grab them out of thin air. 

This relates back to the “everything is me” theory. I have done literally everything in the world, so why not access what I want to now? The tools I’ve used for lifetimes can return to me now.

No matter how “enlightened” I become, I will always struggle with my core trauma and wounds.

 They will find their way back in my body, in my mind and all I need is better tools to fight them. Just when I think I’ve slayed the last self-hate demon, another one starts to infest. Just when I think I’m done trying to appease my parents, some pattern of behavior reveals itself. I try not to beat myself up for it.

Being on Earth is a divine experience. 

Embrace it and feel every aspect of it… hell and heaven exist here!

Text by Mads Ambrose

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My chariot year is intermingled with my personal year, the star/strength (January 9th bday). I am 33 years old, just finished my masters in counseling psych and have studied human development and healing for over a decade (aquarius rising and Gemini Moon). Having said that, I was never really good at actually implementing or embodying the practices that I learned over the years, but this chariot year is helping me have the courage and self-love to put the healing in action when I need it. 

When you wrote about widening your window of tolerance, I wanted to "like" your email! Through EMDR and trauma healing, I now realize that I couldn't implement all that I had learned because my nervous system's imprint of the past was overriding my experience of the present. Slowly, very slowly, and gently (I see the imagery of the strength card), I am feeling sensations in my body and the time it takes me to realize when I have been triggered is becoming shorter and shorter. I celebrate this growing capacity to put my knowledge into action so it may become embodied wisdom and muscle memory. I feel myself walking through the world with a more grounded and sure footing, and at a much slower pace than before. I am learning to be a better steward of this chariot, which to me feels like it's more about checking in with and taking care of the sphynxes than controlling them. 

Text written by Erin F. Bower, Songwriter, Therapist, Teacher

Playlists and Podcasts I listen to while creating

Creating art in my home studio can sometimes feel like a deeply personal and solitary journey, but today, I'm breaking those walls and inviting you to join me on this creative adventure. I've discovered a treasure trove of podcasts and playlists that have become my trusted companions that keep me feeling energized, inspired, and opening, elevating my artistry and inspiring me with every play. Below you’ll find a selection of witchy, metaphysical, spiritual, finance & tech related, educational, and specialty podcasts I listen to as well as playlists that get me energized and excited to work on art.

As an added bonus, I asked my dear friends and fellow artists on Instagram to share their most cherished podcasts, and their heartfelt recommendations have found their way into the "community nominated" section below.

So, as you explore the eclectic mix of podcasts and playlists I've curated, I encourage you to join the conversation! Share your favorite tunes and podcasts in the comments, and let's create a harmonious symphony of creativity together.

Playlists

• The incredible visual artist Erica Deeman (who also happens to be a UC Berkeley MFA Art Practice alumni) has started to curate the most eclectic, magical, soothing, and uplifting playlists under the name Adassa on Spotify. I’ve been connecting deeply with all of her playlists but highly recommend you check out her most recent ones “Other powers” and “the vagus nerve.” They’re the perfect playlist if you’re looking to channel, get into a flow-state, or into a transcendent state!

• Thaddeus Pedisich is a multi-talented musician and artist (and my lovely partner of 11+ years) who creates monthly playlists that feature a dazzling array of new music from around the globe focusing primarily on egg punk, lo-fi, underground, garage rock, metal, d-beat, and avante garde genre-defying musical acts such as Prison Affair, Snõõper, Useless Eaters, sin bragas, Gee Tee, Ghoulies, Powerplant, Smirk, and many more. Check out his most recent July and June playlists to get energized and inspired.

• Diana Negrin is a passionate geographer and curator with a profound focus on identity, space, and social movements in Latin America and the United States. Celebrating her recent birthday, Diana's playlist "Above The Clouds" takes us on a captivating musical journey through her 42 years of life, featuring an eclectic mix of rap, reggae, ranchers, and dance music. Additionally, her incredible playlists titled "Global Environmental Politics Playlist" and "Latinx Politics" reflect her scholarly engagement with human and cultural geography, critical race theory, cultural studies, political ecology, and urban studies, offering a glimpse into her profound exploration of the politics of solidarity within interracial and cross-geographic alliances centered around indigenous culture and territory.

• I first discovered Ciguapa305 on TikTok and she has 3 huge playlists you can spend hours connecting with. My favorite, for sure, is ESPOOKYS!🦇 which is a super gothy mix of rock en español, industrial, new wave, no wave, ebm, and more and is complimented by her Body Electric⚡ playlist which is full of electro, techno, dance, and industrial in both English and Spanish. Her playlist Señora Hour🧹🍺 features music my mom used to listen to when I was a kid growing up in SoCal and is definitely the perfect music to put on if you’re wanting to kick back and drink a few cups of tea or tidy up around the house.

Podcasts

• Missing Witches Podcast - A feminist, research-based occult storytelling project on a quest to find the witches we've overlooked.

• How To Surve The End of The World - Autumn Brown and adrienne maree brown, two sisters with shared identities as writers, activists, facilitators, and inheritors of multiracial diasporic lineages, embark on a podcast exploring survival practices for our community to navigate endings and emerge whole on the other side, no matter what that entails.

• The Witch Wave with Pam Grossman - weaves bewitching conversations on magic, creativity, and culture, featuring leading visionaries discussing art and craft.

• The Think Piece Podcast - Sarah M. Chappell guides founders, creators, coaches, and curious minds in building the future of online business.

• Party Crews: The Untold Story - In the vibrant Los Angeles party crew scene of the ‘00s, Latinx kids sought solace, self-expression, hard house, and a break from their troubles, but the safety was not guaranteed, as shootings and police raids clouded the space. In this gripping podcast, host Janice Llamoca takes a nostalgic Y2K-filled trip back to her own party crew days, reflecting on the significance of the scene for teens like Emmery Muñoz, whose unsolved murder still echoes to this day.

• Rise Up Goodwitch - Formerly hosted by Corinna Rosella, the beloved podcast "Ru!gw" finds a new home with fellow good witch, herbalist, and comedian Tavi Elise for 2023 and beyond. Within a loving container, they weave together stories and shared experiences, infusing humor and skepticism to navigate our current hellscape, all while fostering a spirit of creativity to forge new worlds together.

• Queer Conjure Podcast - Queering the path towards magical liberation this podcast helps you find inspiration in witnessing other trans and queer individuals fully embracing their Whole Witchy Selves, and diligently fostering care through magical practices and equitable principles.

• Erika Taught Me - Erika Kullberg, a lawyer and money expert with over 20 million social media followers, hosts the Erika Taught Me podcast, where she interviews diverse guests each week to explore their paths to success, valuable lessons learned, and insights they can share, releasing a new episode every Tuesday.

• Pivot - Tech journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway team up to deliver sharp, unfiltered insights into the tech, business, and political landscape, making bold predictions, picking winners and losers, and engaging in unique bickering and banter that comes with great scrutiny.

• La Valentina Podcast - is a podcast about queer friendship that celebrates Latinx artists and our accomplices with hosts Hoesy Corona and Stephanie Mercedes.

• Ghost Of A Podcast - Hosted by Jessica Lanyadoo, this astrology and advice podcast is as informative as it is highly entertaining!

• Cosmic Cousins - This podcast is released every new & full moon and is hosted by astrologer Jeff Hinshaw and is dedicated to honoring the interconnectedness of our universal family through embodied health, self-discovery, and deeper learning.

• Why Not Both? - An exploration of how our multiple passions shape our identity and is hosted by Pam Shaffer, who is a musician, and therapist in Los Angeles.

• World Of Rex - Hosted by actor, spiritual coach + guerrilla ontologist Marval A Rex. Featuring occult downloads, psychological inquiries, cultural banter, tantalising guest interviews, and grounded spiritual insights.

Community Nominated Podcasts

• Indigenous Action Podcast - Established on August 25th, 2001, the podcast aims to offer strategic communications and direct action support for the defense of Indigenous sacred lands.

• Poor Magazine/ Prensa Pobre - Poor people–led/indigenous people–led broadcast media deconstructing the lies told about poor folks By Any Means Necessary!

• On Being with Krista Tippett - Peabody award-winning conversations to live with. Wisdom to replenish and orient in this wild ride of a time to be alive.

• Maintenance Phase - is a podcast dedicated to debunking the junk science behind health fads, wellness scams, and nonsensical nutrition advice.

• Third Eye Drops - Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the mysteries and majesty of the multiverse alongside Michael Phillip and his extraordinary multidisciplinary guests, including scientists, artists, comedians, entrepreneurs, authors, shamans, monks, psychonauts, and the occasional android sidekicks.

• Magick & Alchemy Podcast - Step into the enchanting world of modern-day witches and earth-spirited souls with hosts Kristin Lisenby and Kate Belew, as they enthrall listeners each week with discussions on witchcraft, divination, mythology, and all things magick and alchemy.

• Between The Worlds - Join host Amanda Yates Garcia and a series of special guests as they engage in captivating conversations spanning tarot, psychology, mythology, pop culture, witchcraft, magic, art, and history, accompanied by enchanting music and production by Carolyn Pennypacker Riggs.

• Anything For Selena - Maria García combines rigorous reporting with impassioned storytelling to honor Selena's legacy. She also explores the indelible mark she left on Latino identity and belonging, whether it’s fatherhood, big-butt politics, and the fraught relationship with whiteness and language.

• You Must Remember This - Hosted by Karina Longworth, a former film critic for LA Weekly, delves into the scandalous and forgotten history of Old Hollywood, offering extensively researched and captivating insights into the off-screen drama.

• Glitch Bottle - A Western magic and grimoire-focused show that uncorks the uncommon with magic, mysticism, and the generally misunderstood.

• Spirit World Center - Laova and Eric offer practical advice and techniques for seekers of all levels, guiding them to unlock their psychic abilities, perform trance journeys, study spiritual ecosystems, channel guides, and enhance their intuition while fostering a positive relationship with their higher selves, spirits, and the Spirit World.

• Congratulations Pine Tree - The Bay Area’s number ONE arts and culture podcast hosted by Kate Rhoades and Maysoun Wazwaz.

• Saturn Vox - Hosted by McCalla Ann, a theurgist and kabbalistic scholar, this podcast offers bi-weekly interviews exploring Occult education with a focus on philosophy, psychology, theology, and critical thinking, engaging in enlightening discussions with fellow practitioners that celebrate the harmonious and liminal space between theory and praxis.

• What Magic Is This? - Topic-based podcast delving into the realms of Magic, the Occult, the Esoteric, the Paranormal, the Supernatural, and the Weird, where each episode revolves around a single subject, aiming to explore and uncover the essential aspects.

• CARLA Podcast - Presented by Contemporary Art Review Los Angeles (CARLA), a quarterly print magazine and online journal fostering critical dialogue within the contemporary art community of Los Angeles, our monthly podcast features captivating conversations with artists, curators, and creatives living and working in the city, complementing the essays, reviews, and interviews published in the magazine and online.

• Vibe Check - Sam Sanders, Saeed Jones, and Zach Stafford make sense of what’s going on in news and culture – and how it all feels. Vibe Check is your favorite group chat, come to life.

• Normal Gossip - juicy, strange, funny, and utterly banal gossip about people you’ll never know and never meet.

• This Is Actually Happening - Experience riveting, life-changing tales firsthand as individuals recount extraordinary events, from waking up in a morgue to surviving a harrowing ordeal in the Mexican desert, leaving you on the edge of your seat, eager to hear what unfolds next.

• Navigating Narcissism - Embark on a transformative journey of healing from narcissistic encounters with clinical psychologist and foremost narcissism expert, Dr. Ramani Durvasula, as she engages in powerful conversations with survivors and experts in the groundbreaking series.

Arte Sana Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Circulo Retreat at Wild Places

From left to right starting with the back row: Me, Xtal Azul, M. Zamora, Batul True Heart, Yoli, and Tlahuizpapalotl

This past weekend will forever be etched in my memory as one of the most profound and transformative experiences of my life. I had the incredible privilege of co-organizing & participating in a retreat on Tule River Indian Tribe land in central California at Wild Places, a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of plants, animals, and our two-spirit Native and Indigiqueer communities.

The retreat, organized by the Arte Sana cooperative, was made possible through the generous support of the Artists Adaptability Circles program. Through this program, we formed a tight-knit community to share stories, dreams, and visions as two-spirit, queer, and indigiqueer artists and community leaders. We met for over a year and, as a part of this process, decided to host a retreat that would support us in creating a nurturing space that would replenish our spirits and enable us to continue doing our vital work. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, one of our members was not able to join us for the retreat but was with us in Spirit.

Building Community and Sharing Medicine:

Guided by our shared vision of a healing and nurturing retreat, we invited a couple of gifted facilitators to guide us through practices that would deepen our connection to ourselves, each other, and the land.

The first facilitator, Batul True Heart, a death doula, medicine maker, and community leader, introduced us to the sacred practice of creating all-natural Agua Florida (Florida Water). Through a vibrant blend of spices, fruits, herbs, and flowers placed gorgeously ok a sacred altar by the Tule river, Batul shared the art of crafting this potent elixir while also guiding us through the 13 Aires by Estela Roman. We engaged in a powerful talking circle, sharing the Aires that resonated with us at that moment, and receiving reflection and guidance from Batul. It was a transformative experience that nurtured introspection and connection within the group.

Our second facilitator, Yoli, an artist, herbalist, and educator, brought a playful and performative energy to the retreat. Yoli, embodying the mischievous elf being "Baby," led us through a joyful and psychedelic experience. We engaged in bubble gun cleansings, adorned ourselves with vibrant outfits, painted our faces, communed with medicinal honey, and shared open-hearted moments by the river. Yoli facilitated a ceremony that encouraged us to embrace joy, pleasure, and ceremony as a collective. As a culmination, we immersed ourselves in the Tule river together, experiencing a profound sense of unity and vulnerability.

Unexpected Encounters with Nature:

Nature blessed us with extraordinary moments of connection throughout the retreat. Xico, who is one of Wild Place’s stewards, discovered a baby deer fawn in desperate need of care due to a severe injury. With immense compassion, Xico brought the injured fawn into the sanctuary at Wild Places, providing the necessary attention and love until animal rescue experts could offer further support. This unexpected encounter reminded us of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of showing kindness and care to the world around us.

The land itself embraced us, as various creatures visited us during our time at Wild Places. Butterflies and dragonflies danced around us, while hummingbirds, finches, hawks, and turkey vultures mesmerized us with their grace. Squirrels, spiders, and insects went about their daily routines, reminding us of the rich tapestry of life that exists harmoniously in the sanctuary.

Gratitude and Nourishment:

A central aspect of our retreat was gifting ourselves the luxury of having our meals prepared for us. The dedicated staff at Wild Places graciously provided us with a feast of delicious, nutritious, and healthy vegan and non-vegan food. Every meal became an opportunity to connect, share stories, and express gratitude for the abundance we experienced together. The act of communal dining fostered a sense of unity and deepened the bonds we formed throughout the retreat.

Farewell Under the Starry Sky:

As our time together drew to a close, we gathered for a final evening of sacred songs and prayers. Xtal was kind enough to bring their sacred drum, Wiwa, which helped us offer songs and prayers beneath the enchanting starlit sky. I was so happy when Adriana, who had been our retreat’s wildly talented cook, and had made us the most delicious and magical food, asked to join us in the drum circle. It was a moment of profound connection, where our voices harmonized in unity and our intentions soared to the cosmos.

The retreat on Tule land at Wild Places was a journey of healing, connection, and renewal. It provided a sanctuary for our souls to rest, replenish, and strengthen our bonds with each other and the natural world. Through the guidance of skilled facilitators, we explored sacred practices, playful experiences, and moments of unexpected encounters with nature. We expressed deep gratitude for the nourishment provided by the staff at Wild Places and concluded our retreat with a powerful communal prayer beneath the starry night sky. This weekend will forever remain etched in our hearts as a luminous and transformative experience, igniting our spirits to continue the important work we do within our communities.

Five Valuable Lessons I Learned from Le Tigre

Me and Clea Duvall, who was hanging out at Le Tigre’s merch table at the Pomona Glasshouse in 2003

Last night, on July 9, 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to witness Le Tigre perform at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles, 20 years after my last encounter with them at the Glasshouse in Pomona back in 2003. This experience was both surreal and uncanny as I couldn't help but notice the striking similarities between the political climates of then and now, while also acknowledging the progress made in positive and progressive ways. In this blog post, I want to share the five valuable lessons I learned from Le Tigre as a young queer person and how they continue to resonate with me today.

Kathleen Hannah performing live at The Glasshouse in Pomona in 2003.

1. It's Okay to Be Mad and Disillusioned: Living in the midst of an ugly political time marked by rising fascism, anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, and restrictive laws, it's understandable to feel anger, disillusionment, disappointment, and rage. Le Tigre's music provides a powerful outlet for expressing these emotions and validates the frustration we experience in our current political climate. While the era of George Bush seemed problematic, today's conservative party exhibits unprecedented levels of racism, homophobia, and misogyny. Le Tigre's music reminds us that it's okay to be furious and motivates us to channel that energy into fighting for a better future.

2. Your Art, Voice, and Presence are Needed: In a world that often encourages marginalized individuals to stay silent and small, Le Tigre emphasizes the importance of taking up space, sharing our experiences, and using our voices to demand change. They remind us that our art matters and that we must be bold, critical, and unafraid to express our grievances. By utilizing the mediums and platforms available to us, we can make a significant impact and shape a more inclusive and accepting world.

3. DIY and Punk Aesthetics as Empowerment: Amid a society that values formalization, professionalism, and mainstream success, Le Tigre's embrace of DIY and punk aesthetics becomes a powerful form of resistance. Doing things for ourselves, not waiting for external validation, and creating our own scenes and communities are acts of liberation. These ideals challenge problematic hierarchies and allow us to define our own values and spaces, both within the underground and in more conservative environments. Museums and larger institutions benefit from the energy generated in DIY spaces, reminding us to foster and merge these aesthetics and values into all cultural spheres.

4. Solidarity within Marginalized Communities: Le Tigre taught us that queer people, trans folks, women, and other marginalized individuals of the global majority outnumber those who seek to oppress and diminish us. They instilled in us the belief that we have each other's backs and the power to create spaces of safety and resilience. As we forge connections and support networks, we defy societal norms and shape new realities where everyone can thrive, experiment, and take risks. Together, we can build a future that celebrates diversity and allows marginalized voices to be seen, heard, and uplifted.

5. The Personal is Deeply Political: Le Tigre has consistently used their platform to shed light on how queer, femme, trans, and artists of color often face exclusion and pigeonholing within mainstream society. By sharing personal struggles and exposing the disparities in the music and art industries, they have sparked crucial conversations about diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. Le Tigre's advocacy emphasizes the need for art to be a viable and sustainable path for artists, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to thrive creatively.

Le Tigre's powerful music and activism have shaped the lives of countless people, offering inspiration, validation, and a sense of community for us. From embracing anger to advocating for inclusivity and sustainability in the arts, their influence is profound and timeless. As we navigate through today's challenging political climate, let us remember the valuable lessons learned from Le Tigre and continue their legacy by using our art, voices, and presence to effect positive change in the world.

Click here to see more images from my first time seeing Le Tigre at The Glasshouse in Pomona in 2003.

Click below to see Le Tigre perform their song F.Y.R. live at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles in 2023.

Embracing the Freedom of Art: Reclaiming Our Mark-Making

When I was in second grade, an incident occurred that left a lasting impact on my artistic journey. My teacher called my parents into school to discuss the messiness of my art and expressed concern about my abilities. That experience instilled within me a deep fear of making marks, planting the idea that my artistic expression was flawed and that there were strict rules dictating right and wrong ways to create art. However, as I grew older and pursued art as a passion and even as an educator, I came to realize that many people carry similar burdens—self-imposed restrictions and boundaries when it comes to art-making. In recent times, I had a profound experience that reminded me of the true essence of art and the freedom it offers. It became clear to me that there are no right or wrong marks in art; instead, there are marks, and they hold profound meaning. Art is a powerful tool for healing, nourishment, and self-expression—a mirror that reflects our hearts, spirits, and unique creative process.

Breaking Free from Self-Imposed Boundaries:

For years, I carried the weight of my teacher's words, believing that my mark-making wasn't acceptable and that there were predetermined standards I needed to adhere to. These constrictions limited my artistic exploration, stifled my creativity, and hindered my ability to embrace the full potential of art. It wasn't until I embarked on my journey as an artist and educator that I witnessed countless individuals grappling with similar self-imposed limitations. I realized that societal expectations, comparisons to others, and fear of judgment often play a significant role in shaping our views of what art should or shouldn't be.

The Liberation of Art:

However, a recent artistic encounter shattered these preconceived notions. In this transformative experience, I felt a profound sense of freedom, liberation, and connectedness. I discovered the true essence of art—its ability to heal, nourish, and embrace. I understood that art is not confined to a set of rules or aesthetics; it transcends such limitations. Art is a language that speaks to our souls, allowing us to communicate in ways that words alone cannot capture. Each mark we make carries personal significance and meaning, making it inherently valuable, regardless of how it may align with external standards.

Subjectivity and Interchangeable Meaning:

Art is a realm where subjectivity reigns supreme. The beauty of artistic expression lies in its interpretive nature. What may resonate deeply with one person may evoke a completely different response in another. Our art becomes a reflection of our inner selves, a testament to our unique perspectives and experiences. It is a celebration of the diverse tapestry of human existence. The meaning we imbue into our art is entirely personal, fluid, and ever-changing. It is this flexibility that makes art such a powerful means of self-discovery and self-expression.

Reclaiming Art and Embracing Freedom:

In the process of creating art, we reclaim our autonomy and redefine what it means to be an artist. We reject the notion of right or wrong, and instead, we revel in the boundless possibilities that art offers. We embrace the truth that art is not limited to a select few, but rather, it is a birthright bestowed upon all of us. Art becomes an avenue for liberation, an escape from the confines of self-doubt and societal expectations. It is through art that we find solace, joy, and the courage to be unapologetically ourselves.

My journey as an artist and educator has led me to the realization that art is a powerful force capable of breaking down barriers, both internal and external. The experience of overcoming my fear and embracing the freedom of art has been transformative. It has allowed me to shed the constrictions that once held me back and recognize the limitless potential that resides within each of us. Let us reclaim art as a mirror—a reflection of our hearts, spirits, and unique creative processes. Let us revel in the freedom it brings, and through our mark-making, shape a world where artistic expression knows no boundaries. Art is freedom, and we, the artists, are the embodiment of that freedom.

Embracing My Multi-Hyphenate Career Path: Balancing Art, Mental Health Care, Religion & Spirituality

Memoria Sonora, 2018 with artist Alexia Miranda at El Pueblo Historical Monument as part of Pacific Standard Time:Live Art LA/LA in Los Angeles, California.

Throughout my life, I have been constantly reminded of the conventional and traditional way of selecting and following a career. However, despite these societal and familial pressures to do so, I have always been determined to avoid the constraints of conventionality. As a result, I am now living where I can delve into all facets of my being and explore different paths without limitation or stagnancy. My pursuit of a non-traditional approach has allowed me to experience life in a genuinely unique manner that is not available to those who follow typical routes.

As an individual with many interests and proficiencies, my schedule is replete with diverse engagements. Throughout one day of every week, I discharge the role of a mental health counselor, offering counsel and succor to those grappling with sundry issues related to psychological well-being. Apart from this, a considerable fraction of my time is invested in artistic pursuits. My creations have been showcased in numerous galleries and exhibitions. Furthermore, I have developed expertise in crafting and vending editions of my digitally native work as crypto art.

To expand my knowledge base and share my ideas with others, I visit universities where I engage with students on creativity, magic, divination, mental health, and other similar concepts. Furthermore, I conduct workshops on these topics and teach classes and offer artist talks to those who wish to learn more about me and my diverse practices.

As someone passionate about spirituality, I provide spiritual services through Our Sacred Web. In this donation-based practice, individuals can receive tarot readings or have me officiate their weddings or host ceremonies. My tarot reading skills were even sought after by the LA Times when they commissioned me to perform readings for the city of Los Angeles.

My varied interests enable me to frequently appear worldwide, where I am invited to speak about topics such as witchcraft and creativity.

Despite my passion for this multi-hyphenate career path, I often must classify my practices and separate myself. But I'm taking a stand and refusing to do so. Instead, I want to build a world where having multiple passions and interests is encouraged and supported.

As a contemporary artist in Los Angeles, my work is informed by indigenous futurism, a style that reflects my deep interest in healing and spirituality. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use interdisciplinary education and holistic therapies like mindfulness-based therapy, Hakomi, somatic psychology, and internal family systems to help people heal.

My dream job allows me to integrate my diverse interests and skills rather than forcing me to choose just one. And I'm not alone in this desire. Others like me refuse to "niche down" and instead embrace multidisciplinary career paths.

I've found balance and fulfillment in my work by embracing a multi-hyphenate career path. It can be challenging to juggle multiple roles, but the rewards are worth it. I can pursue my passions, help others, and live a life that feels true to who I am.

Embracing a multi-hyphenate career path is the key to finding balance and fulfillment in work and life. We don't have to choose just one passion or career path - instead, we can embrace our diverse interests and skills to create a career that reflects who we are. Let's build a world where multi-hyphenate career paths are encouraged and celebrated.

Beyond the Classroom: Creating Informal & Ad-Hoc Educational Spaces for Community Building and Resilience

Psychic Plant Spirit Communication, 2019 at Desert Daze Art and Music Festival.

At my core, I strongly believe in the power of creating communal spaces that allow for personal and societal growth. As an individual and an organization, being adaptable and open to new perspectives is critical in establishing these spaces that promote learning, idea-sharing, and community-building. This belief is the driving force behind my work in creating workshops, ceremonies, artist residencies, and events in a wide range of settings.

One of the most significant benefits of creating educational and communal spaces outside of academic institutions is that it allows for a more diverse range of voices to be heard. In my experience, when people from different backgrounds and experiences come together, new ideas are formed, and we can learn from one another in ways that are impossible in a traditional classroom setting. This leads to a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of complex issues and can result in more effective problem-solving, community-building, and cross-pollination.

To me, creating these informal and ad-hoc communal spaces is not just about providing an alternative to academic institutions but rather about expanding our understanding of how knowledge and wisdom can be acquired. We must break free from the idea that formalized spaces are the only places where learning and growth can occur. Instead, we need to cultivate spaces that exist both within and outside of formal structures to create a healthy and resilient community that values the diversity of voices and experiences.

In addition to creating spaces outside of formalized institutions, I believe it's equally important to establish these types of educational and communal spaces within them. By creating spaces within academic institutions that are open to the wider community, we can bridge the gap between academia and the broader community while also providing access to the resources and knowledge available within the institution.

Throughout my career, I have organized events in a variety of settings, including galleries, museums, healing spaces, therapy centers, nonprofits, businesses, music festivals, and more. Each space presents unique challenges and opportunities, but they all serve to create a sense of belonging and connection. Time and time again, I've witnessed people showing up and offering care for each other, finding solutions for others where they previously felt stuck or alone, and even sharing messages gleaned from personal journeys with others that leave a deep impact on them. These types of group experiences can be profound, moving, emotional, and uncanny, and they illustrate the power of community building.

As someone who has earned two Master's degrees, I recognize the value of formal education, but I also see the limitations of traditional academic institutions. That's why I am passionate about creating non-formal educational opportunities that promote a sense of community and foster learning beyond the classroom. By cultivating educational and communal spaces both within and outside of formalized institutions, we can create a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of complex issues, while also connecting with others outside of it. Weaving webs within the interstices of institutional and relational systems.

Take a look at some of the past workshops I’ve been able to offer. I’d love to encourage you to check out my upcoming events section to keep up to date with different opportunities to connect within and outside of these spaces and invite you to join my newsletter to be the first to know when these opportunities arise. Also, if you’re interested in inviting me to organize a workshop at your institutions and/or do an artist talk or presentation on my work, please feel free to reach out and contact me.