Behind the Scenes

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Becoming Artist of the Month at The Art Collective Gallery was both exhilarating and daunting. I realized that as many pieces of art that I have laying around, they would not hang well together. I suddenly had to produce 12–14 new works in just three and a half weeks.

That deadline stirred up all kinds of inner voices — the survivor archetypes showed up in full force. The Victim complained there wasn’t enough time. The Saboteur whispered that I’d never pull it off. The Compromiser (or Prostitute) tempted me to make what I thought others wanted instead of what I truly loved. Imposter syndrome and comparison tried to take the joy out of the process.

What steadied me was returning to silk fusion. There’s something so sensual and immersive about the process—layering silk fibers, bonding them, and letting color, texture, and touch carry me back to center. I realized I needed to simplify design and composition so that I could finish on time, but that limitation became its own kind of teacher.

Now, rather than feeling depleted, I feel opened. This intense push has led me to a new chapter: devoting some immersive time to exploring silk fusion in depth—printing photographs on it, painting it, manipulating its surface, and even experimenting with Wen Redman’s holographic photography techniques. What began as pressure has become possibility.

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Upcoming

The Artist's Threshold

There are a couple of spots left at the Art Collective St Augustine

51 Cordova St.

St. Augustine FL 32084

gallery: 904-792-4500

Tuesday, September 23 rd

10:00 am -11:30 am

​Sign Up Here!​

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The Sacred Artist’s Journey

This isn’t just a class – it’s a transformative experience.

Over 12 sacred weeks, you’ll recognize and reclaim the innate archetype

that fuels your creativity and directs your artistic path. Through guided live

zoom sessions, pre-recorded lessons, integrative creative practices,

completed signature artwork, and one-on-one support, you’ll claim your artist essence.

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Here’s what one recent journeywoman said:

“The Sacred Artist Journey came at a critical juncture in my artist journey where I was really questioning my commitment to “art” and the “why” I was doing art. Through An’s structured guidance, classes, exercises, coaching and mentoring- I came away with an exciting vision for the future and an archetype that I truly resonate with- the Connector artist. At times, I struggled with some of the concepts but through An’s guidance and insights it all came together. An provided such great insights into me and my artistic style through our conversations. I am in awe of her! I developed great relationships with the class and we are looking to continue our artistic journey beyond this course. I would highly recommend!” – Jayne D.

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New journey begins: October 2025

For more info on The Sacred Artist's Journey and to book a free call to find out if this is your time to step through the portal. Click here ​

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✨ Art, Archetype & Ancient Wisdom ✨

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Our monthly Zoom meetup returns! You’re invited to bring artwork, discoveries, announcements, and promotions as we learn together. Each month we’ll explore a universal archetype and reflect on who you, as the artist, is at this moment in time. These conversations matter because when we recognize archetypal patterns, we increase awareness, deepen our consciousness, and amplify the collective creative field.

October – The Sage​
We turn toward wisdom, harvesting the insights of the year and asking what truths we’ll carry forward.

​https://zoom.us/j/96414314669​

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November – The Alchemist​
We step into transformation, learning how to turn trials into treasures and challenges into creative fuel.

​https://zoom.us/j/99927221662​

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December – The Visionary​
We look ahead with clarity and imagination, carrying inspiration across the threshold into a new year.Together, we’ll explore how these archetypes guide not just our art, but our way of being in the world — reminding us that collective patterns have the power to shape individual lives and make a difference for all.

​https://zoom.us/j/94909971899​

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This opportunity is open to all like-minded creatives - please share. If you are interested in the meet-up, note the zoom link on your calendar.

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​Going to Houston – stop by and say hello Soul Stories: Threads of Existence

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Art, Archetype & Ancient Wisdom

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Symbolic Perception

I recently attended a class on Symbolic Perception with Kikan Massara, and it offered such a refreshing way of seeing. Symbolic perception isn’t about interpreting or analyzing — it’s about sensing. Instead of focusing on parts, it allows us to see the whole, to notice what unifies and connects. It’s a different state of consciousness, one that can be cultivated through practices like image dreaming, ritual, and simply pausing to feel what an image evokes.

What struck me most was the idea that symbols are living beings. They carry the energy of our associations, and they respond when we give them attention and gratitude. Jung once wrote, “Creative imagination is the only immediate reality,” reminding us that when we create, we are not just making objects—we are mediating something much larger, something that can transmit awe, order, and even healing. Sitting with a single image, as the practice suggests, becomes a way to open ourselves to mystery, wholeness, and the stories waiting to be born through us.

As you move through your day, I invite you to pause and ask: what symbol is life offering me right now — and am I willing to listen to it?

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