Epiphany Mystical March Issue No.10

Powered By

Established in 2020, Studio Lab is the creative force behind Epiphany Zine. Studio Lab is a multi-media company that creates visual content such as photography, videography, and publishing design.

Studio Lab primarily focuses on promotional content with the intention to serve creatives and small businesses. In 2023, we aim to reach new audiences to serve as we embark on our expansion mission.

Thank you for reading Epiphany Zine. For direct access to new monthly issues our newsletter subscribe here.

Dearest Readers,

I am beyond exalted to release upon you the Mys- tical March Issue No. 10! In this months issue, Epiphany Zine explores intriguing facets of mysticism and fantasy. It gives creative insights to just how profound the human imagination is.

The best part of the issue are the featured artists that create magical art that looks as if it belongs in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Their art is simply created from worlds they envision from within their minds eye. I am beyond excited to present these individuals in this issue.

With Gratitude, Eddie

Walker

A Letter from the Editor Contriubtor

Katerina Graziosi graduated from California State University, Sacramento in 2021 and currently works as a freelance journalist. Having majored in journalism and minored in sociology, she is passionate about storytelling, social justice, progressive politics, and the arts. A first-generation U.S. citizen, Katerina has been living in the city of trees for the past 14 years and her work appears in The State Hornet, the Sacramento Business Journal, and Epiphany Zine.

Welcome to the Age of AquArius

Exiting the age of Pisces and entering the age Aquarius, humanity is breaking free from conformity and shifting into a time of hope and conscious enlightenment.

- By Eddie Walker

thousands of years, but it reached its peak in the 1960's with the baby boomer generation. These young people began questioning and challenging systemic issues, by exploring their depths of their own consciousness.

The Age of Aquarius from an astrological standpoint is concept based on the positions of planets (Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Mercury) as they align with the sun and moon. As a collective we are exiting the age of Pisces which represents faith, belief, and religion. And we have began entering the age of Aquarius which represents a shift from “me” to “we”.

An astrological precession takes approximately 2160 years for one sign to cycle back around to its original position, we’ll be experiencing these changes until approximately 2092!

Astrologers believe this alignment of the age Aquarius will bring about social change through empathy and harmony among humanity. This concept may seem far-fetched at first glance; however, there are many examples throughout history where this type of alignment has caused major changes in society.

During the counter culture movement of the 60's people were becoming more aware of societal issues like racism, sexism, and needless war. People were also starting to question their role in society as well as the political system that seem to promote and support segregation and war over seas.

Currently, we can see how this phenomenon is being reexamined by millennials and Gen Z who are looking for effective solutions to living a prosperous lifestyle on their own terms— avoiding the trap of slaving away for corporations and fast food companies.

Instead, the younger generations are seeking ways to change our world into a more sustainable and inclusive environment.

These ideas all aligned with what astrologers predicted would occur during the age of Aquarius. It’s no wonder there is currently so much change in today's society. That means there’s plenty more time for us all to work together towards creating a peaceful future for humanity, while exploring our consciousness to heal ourselves and ultimately our broken society.

The Age of Aquarius is a concept that has been around for

Mystical Mermaids

Mermaids have been a part of mythology since ancient times, and they’ve been depicted in art and folklore across the world dating back to the 1800's.

According to Etymology the term “mermaid” comes from the Latin word “mere,” which means “sea,” and “maid,” which means “unmarried women.” Mermaids are depicted as half-woman, half-fish sea creatures. They were also often described as having long hair and an enchanting singing voice that could hypnotize and control their victims.

The origins of these mythical creatures can be traced back to Ancient Greece and even further back in time to 1000 BC in Assyria, which is present-day Syria. In Greece, the most famous ancient mermaid story is the scene from Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey— in which Odysseus is warned by the sorceress Circe of the irresistible song of the Sirens. It should be noted that in ancient Greek mythology, the term “mermaid” did not exist. Instead, sirens were often referred to as mermaids. Popular pieces of literature that centers around mermaids include: “The Deep” by Rivers Solomon, “Into the Drowning Deep” by Mira Grant, and “The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea” by Maggie Tokuda-Hall.

In modern culture, mermaids are often seen as symbols of female empowerment. They’re often portrayed as strong she-creatures who know how to defend themselves and they’re not always portrayed as being beautiful or feminine. In fact, some depictions show them as sea monsters with scales, fins, and razor sharp claws.

Today, the existence of mermaids in modern art have become increasingly accepted —you can find them in artwork by famous artists like Gustav Klimt and John William Waterhouse. Also, in movies like Splash, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. And in television shows like Once Upon A Time and The Magicians.

The Juxtaposition of Judah Pimental

Judah Pimentel is a creator of many facets. With the artistic flare for countless mediums, he is somewhat of a creative chameleon— blending flawlessly into any unique fabricated form.

As Judah shares, “Painting and Drawing are well-known mediums, but I also do my own photography, photo-manipulation, music production, poetry/story/song-writing, sculpting, up-cycled doll customization, makeup, hair, and videography. I wouldn’t say I’m amazing at all of the above, but I’m happy to say I do everything and not needing of help when I have an idea.” Utilizing his journal and time management skills, Judah is able to keep all of his undertakings organized for production.

Sharing with the community his versatile styles of art, Judah tutors the youth with his business Elysium Star Art, which he founded two years ago in 2021. He teaches a unique combination of Surrealism and portraiture with a emphasis on color theory, portrait drawing, and creative thinking.

For Judah art is a spiritual practice, often translating his emotions and psyche onto the canvass for people to resonate with.

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

Hey Judah, give the readers some insight on who you are.

I’m ageless, and the majority of my family is from Mexico. I enjoy creating visual arts, making music, studying history/ cultures/religion, nature walks, animals, and collecting dolls. My biggest accomplishment is that I’m able to work as an artist full-time. A lot of creators struggle to find art-related work, and I happened to be blessed by my community and God with four jobs relating to my passions. Lastly, the only show I’ve ever been drawn to binge-watching is Wednesday.

It’s something everyone has with its individualities, but we are discouraged from exercising it. I have great knowledge of who I am, and so it’s easy to create if I’m best friends with my mind and the artist who created me.

Looking at your Instagram you partake in many forms of creativity, what are all the mediums of art and creativity you do?

not an emotional catfish. When you see my art, you’re seeing me.”

Your creativity is off the charts, what sparked your creative genius?

My spirituality, I believe imagination is installed into our brains as a gift from God to hear them and find ourselves as well.

Painting and Drawing is a well-known mediums, but I also do my own photography, photo-manipulation, music production, poetry/ story/song-writing, sculpting, up-cycled doll customization, makeup, hair, and videography. I wouldn’t say I’m amazing at all of the above, but I’m happy to say I do everything and not needing of help when I have an idea.

What medium of art/creativity are you passionate about the most?

“My art is like a spiritual mirror to me, it’s a reflection of my thoughts, what I’m attracted to, my feelings, and my imagination. If you like my art, my art is me, meaning you’ll probably resonate with me as well. I don’t create work that’s just decorative, people-pleasing, or not personal. I’m

-Judah P.

I can’t prioritize any of them, I think they’re all valued equally. I do get excited for painting and photoshoots the most.

Are you planning on learning any new styles in the future? If so, what style(s)?

I’m always learning, and learning just happens from experiencing life. I can’t pinpoint anything I want to learn.

What prompts you to create a new piece or new look (appearance)? What does that creative process look like?

Everything starts with a daydream or vision. I sketch it out quickly into my journals, writing any important details and how to create the idea. After the sketch, I plan a day to create. I always have to have a plan with my pieces and know exactly what’s going to happen. Otherwise, things go terribly wrong! However, sometimes spontaneity is okay.

Outside of art/creativity, what else holds significance in your life?

Human connection. I feel life is pointless if I’m not reaching out to people, spending time with those I enjoy, and being an outlet of compassion for anyone who needs it (with some boundaries haha). We are community creatures, so as much as I like to hide in my room and paint, I feel numb if I can’t share emotions and life with others.

What’s something that you feel people should know about you, that ultimately influences your art?

My art is like a spiritual mirror to me, it’s a reflection of my thoughts, what I’m attracted to, my feelings, and my imagination. If you like my art, my art is me, meaning you’ll probably resonate with me as well. I don’t create work that’s just decorative, people-pleasing, or not personal. I’m not an emotional catfish. When you see my art, you’re seeing me.

How do you take care of your mental health when you start to feel burned out?

I don’t.

What has been your proudest accomplishment in your creative journey?

An accomplishment is that I kept going in the hardest times. When I was discouraged, and had voices saying to be realistic with life, I kept going and kept putting myself out there. I told myself “someone will hear me”, and I was blessed to find communities where I was finally seen. My proudest accomplishment is that I’m painting, creating, and networking regardless of the scenario.

As an art tutor, what’s the most important advice you tend to give to students?

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

Don’t bully yourself. Too many young artists get discouraged easily by artists with more experience, or they get made fun of for using their imagination. We are our worst critics. But I tell students to realize that every piece, stroke, and sketch is valid and a step closer to what they hope to see in their work. I encourage them to keep going and not be judgmental towards the process!

What underlying message do you seek to express with your art?

I don’t feel like I have any discreet/DL messages in my art. I feel like my work has a lot of symbolism, but it’s not a secret, just longer to find.

What is your mantra for 2023?

“I’ll try my best and that’s the best anyone can do”

How can people support you?

Add my socials @judahxpimentel, @elysiumsstarart Purchase art! If you’re another creative, I’m always looking for collabs regarding photoshoots, music, etc. Talk about me if you like me.

Thought So” 2023

(pictured right)

“You

A visual representation of how I may look normal to people on the outside, but the more they get to know me the more weird and peculiar I seem.

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

“Pearl Queen” 2021 (pictured left)

“Key to the Chains Everywhere”

2023 (pictured above)

The Pearl Queen: no one knows her origin, why she’s made of pearl, so they criticize her and belittle her out of their own insecurities. Yet she stands so still and boldly, as they throw pebbles and pearls with their harassing words. ‘Pearl heads aren’t natural’ ‘God hates the Pearl people’ but she knows God and he created her carefully.

So much of us focus our lives trying to be the social, financial, beauty, and other cultural standards wherever we are. We become enslaved to toxic theology, gender norms, discrimination and hierarchy. Our hearts are chained onto the earths standards, but our standards should be out of this world. Earth is our home but not where we should get our knowledge. The knowledge we should seek is implanted inside us, our spirituality, our intuition, and our imagination.

A Popular Trend in Art

The Realm of Fantasy Art

- By Eddie Walker

Fantasy: imagination, especially when extravagant and unrestrained. The forming of mental images, especially wondrous or strange fancies; imaginative conceptualizing. A mental image, especially when unreal or fantastic; vision: a nightmare fantasy.

Fantasy Art: A Popular Trend in Art

Since the mid 1900's Fantasy art has been on a growing trend amongst the mainstream art world. Fantasy art was birthed from novels of fantasy fiction illustrations. Aside from it's origins Fantasy artworks are often created with the

intention of evoking emotion and telling a unique and unseen story. This allows the artist to reach beyond their initial purpose or medium.

History of Fantasy Art

The origins of fantasy art can be traced back to 18th century literature, where fantasy fiction authors like Lewis Carrol (Alice in Wonderland, 1865) and J.R.R. Tolkien (The Hobbit, 1937) wrote of uncanny magical realms and creatures that dwelled within them.

Over the last century fantasy literature has continued to evolve and in return evolving the expression of fantasy art—especially visual arts such as painting, sculpting, and even photography— that has allowed artists to create their own worlds or reimagine existing ones through their own creativity and imagination.

Relevance Today

Today, fantasy art continues to thrive because of its innate ability to portray epic stories and grant access to people looking to escape into uncharted worlds where anything is possible. It also gives the artist and viewer an opportunity to see themselves as something much more than what society expects them to be, leaving all limitations of thinking behind.

putting the poison in princess

The dark origins of classic fairy tales “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Cinderella” as told by the Brothers Grimm

-By Katerina Graziosi

Once upon a time in the early 1800s, fantastical tales of princesses and knights, quests, adventure and love were preserved from their centuries-long history as oral folklore by brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm in their book “Children’s and Household Tales.”

These stories, including classics like “Little Red Cap” (better known as “Little Red Riding Hood”), “Rapunzel,” and “Hansel and Gretel,” have become enshrined in many of our childhoods and often conjure images of mystical lands ruled by royalty and magic with strange creatures and even stranger happenings.

But perhaps the real mysticism lies shrouded in just how dark the origins of these tales read today.

Originally published in 1812, the 1st volume of the Grimm’s collection contained 86 stories and went on to be revised and publ-

ished seven more times. By its 7th edition, the Grimm’s collection of over 200 tales was unrecognizable from its first iteration and from the versions many of us know today.

Below are the darker details of the origins of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Cinderella.”

The Grimm sleeper

When Snow-White angers her stepmother queen by growing up to be more beautiful than the matriarch, the queen tries to kill Snow-White three times and succeeds in poisoning her until “she breathed no longer and was dead.”

As Snow-White lies in a glass coffin in her poisoned-apple induced slumber, a passing prince falls in love with her lifeless body.

The prince asks the seven nameless dwarfs watching over Snow-White to sell her body to him and when they refuse, the prince persists asking for Snow-White as a gift so that he may, “honor and prize her as my dearest possession.”

The dwarfs agree and the prince carries Snow-White’s body away with him into the forrest (!!!). Hitting a non-proverbial bump in the road, the prince’s entourage drop Snow-White’s coffin causing the piece of poisoned fruit to become dislodged from her mouth and upon regaining consciousness, she agrees to marry the insisting prince.

The evil queen was invited to the wedding but not to make amends; instead, the queen was made to wear iron “red-hot shoes, and dance until she dropped down dead.”

Small shoes to fill

If the shoe fits, wear it; and if it’s too small, cut off a toe. At least that is what Cinderella’s stepsister did in the original account of this surprisingly bloody tale.

After sneaking away from her sinister stepmother and stepsisters to attend a royal festival where the incumbent king might choose a wife, Cinderella leaves the festivities in a hurry to make it home before her competing siblings.

Leaving behind a small golden slipper — given to Cinderella by her bird friends — the prince who had fallen in

love with Cinderella, ordered a search for his desired bride whose feet fit the slipper. Upon hearing this, Cinderella’s stepsisters arranged to try on the shoe and when the fit is less than perfect, their mother hands the sisters a knife so that one could cut off a toe and the other “a bit off your heel.”

Briefly tricked, the prince realizes neither of the stepsisters are a match for the slipper as “he looked down at her foot and saw how the blood was running out of her shoe, and how it had stained her white stocking quite red.”

At Cinderella’s royal wedding, the stepsisters are blinded as her pigeon friends peck out their eyes. That’s the shoe on the other foot.

Laurelin Gimore: creator of curiosities

Artist, entreprenuer, and community advocate Laurelin Gilmore is bringing her dreams to life on and off the canvass.

Laurelin began turning her dreams into reality in 2010, when she made the decision to part ways with her career working for the Governor’s Office to pursue her passion for art.

In 2020, Laurelin

Co-Founded Amatoria

Fine Art Books in Sacra-

mento, CA. Laurelin states, “I’m excited to serve our creative community with a massive variety of books on any and all creative pursuits. I write whenever I can, and making thrifted fabric into clothes, rebinding old books never gets old.”

As a key supporter of the local creative community, Laurelin also utilizes her business space as a dependable location to host maker’s fairs, poetry readings, book signing, artist talks, and much more.

Along with Amatoria Fine Art Books, Laurelin also creates fantasy art utilizing oil paint to give life to the mystical realms and magical beings that inhabit her art.

Wonderfully expressing her creative energy, Laurelin is redefining what it means to create fantasy art that speaks to the deepest core of our human essence and more importantly our interdependence with earth.

I like to create paintings that feel like you could walk into them. I want you to feel like you’ve just turned a corner and encountered this creature.

"The fallacy of armor is that it makes you strong. In this case, the armored person (the knight) has landed in an unknown world, no idea what dangers await, totally unprepared. Inside this carapace, the shell, the knight has no internal fortification. The knight’s protector has almost no exterior armor, but is clearly capable, is obviously at home in this strange place. In unknown circumstances, the only protection, shield, or fortification that really matters is internal."

“Stay the Knight” Laurelin Gilmore, 2013

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

“Dreaming” , 2021

"A soft, dark place for an unquiet mind to rest. Vacillating over the doorway between childhood and adulthood, a young girl’s mind explodes with uncertainty. What should be sweet is frightening, what should be scary is cute, metaphors are made literal, dangerous entities bloom with wildflowers. This is a safe space to let it all run free, unbottle the whole wild mess and finally sleep soundly."

Interview

Hi Laurelin, tell me a little bit about you?

I am a full-time painter, part-time writer, mixed-media artist and sculptor most interested in figure and fantasy art. I am a life-long horror fan, a bibliophile who co-owns the region’s only fine art bookstore, and nothing makes me feel happier than immersion in natural spaces. In little ways, all of that is reflected in my work. Like most creatives, I tend to octopus out, so creature design, bookbinding, and upcycled fashion are also pursuits I enjoy.

Who/What sparked an interest in you to become an artist?

Like everyone else, I started making art as a little kid. Most kids like to draw, dance, sing, make up stories, play in mud. I was just never told to stop. The difference between me and any other person is time spent and depth of interest. I loved making any and everything as a child, and I was encouraged to continue by my family and my peers. It became necessary at some point, and today feels like a natural and inseparable part of me.

When did you begin creating art professionally?

In 2010, I left my job at the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research in order to pursue art full-time. I loved, and still love, the people I worked with, but the work

itself had nothing to do with me. I couldn’t make myself care as much about that work as I did about art. It’s ok to have a nine to five gig as an artist, (the only reason I could quit was because I have a partner who could cover the loss) but art is the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do with my life. I had to try.

What is your medium of art, what was it that attracted you to that style?

I am primarily an oil painter. I wanted to paint people, and the luminosity and warmth that you can achieve in skin painted with oil paint is unmatched in other mediums. Before I was a painter, I was a drawing artist. When I’m drawing, I gravitate toward conte, which creates a really soft sepia, or charcoal if I want deep dark shadows. Lately I’ve been really loving white charcoal on black paper. It requires some interesting problem-solving. Paperclay is probably my favorite sculpting material.

What inspires you to go pull out a blank canvass and create a new piece?

It’s usually a combination of some incredibly beautiful nature thing and a story I tell myself about it, little snippets of scenes I want to immerse myself in. I pass by a fallen log in the forest and think about the

person who lives in it, for whom it’s a sacred space, or entryway to somewhere else. I like to create paintings that feel like you could walk into them. I want you to feel like you’ve just turned a corner and encountered this creature. It’s really everywhere. A moth’s wing, a wave.

When painting a new piece, what does your creative routine and process look like?

I’ve been favoring paint ing on boards, so I sand it, gesso it, gather my reference material and start drawing on it, sometimes I paint the ground or base layer in acrylic paint first, but otherwise I start right away applying oil paint.

Where do you find the creative insights to create your amazing

pieces?

Everything is reference material. Dreams, music, conversations, film, language, movement, lighting, argument, heartbreak. Patterns that repeat in nature and in human experience remind us that we’re deeply integrated in the natural world.

Rivers, branches, and neurons follow the same rules. Tiger stripes look like stretchmarks. What if freckles, birthmarks, and scars are like camouflage? If I were very still, could I grow coral, or host barnacles, or moss? I have fun exploring those connections.

What’s something you want people to know about your art?

I’m using fantasy to explore the reality of our habitat and our place in it. I want people to see themselves in nature, to see it as a part of us. The hope is to build reverence for it, respect, and a sense of protectiveness for it.

Besides art, what else captures your attention and interests? Is it a special cause, another form of creativity, or something else altogether?

As co-owner of Amatoria Fine Art Books, I’m excited to serve our creative

community with a massive variety of books on any and all creative pursuits. I write whenever I can, and making thrifted fabric into clothes, rebinding old books never gets old.

What was the best advice someone ever gave you? What advice would you give to a new artist looking to follow in your footsteps?

1. Never forget how big the audience is. There is someone who will appreciate every kind of art. You don’t have to fit anyone else’s mold. In fact, it’s more fun if you don’t. 2. What makes you different is your superpower. Tell the story only you can tell. 3. Show up and do the work. Doing it makes it easier to do. No procrastinating or excuses, just show up and make. 4. You can talk to yourself, but don’t always listen to yourself. Be your own best cheerleader, ignore your inner critic.

What has been your proudest moment as an artist?

There have been many proud moments. Getting the cover of the Open Studios Tour Guide with a portrait of my father was pretty great. My dad in my art plastered all over town, everywhere I went. Being asked to make work for Showtime’s The L Word Generation Q was fantastic. Nothing quite as surreal as seeing your paintings on television. Taking over the art bookstore I used to shop in was pretty incredible. Watching

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

my kid blossom and find her creative voice feels like an art life well-lived.

What is your mantra for 2023?

I don’t know. Something like “No wasted time, no wasted energy” to remind myself to be present in this moment, and to remind myself that my energy is precious and it is up to me where I direct it. I think it’s about creating quality from the moments I have instead of focusing on being or doing something different.

What message(s) do you seek to convey with your artwork?

Ultimately, I’d like people to see themselves in my work. I want them to see the earth as their home, their habitat, and an inseparable part of their existence. We live on a fantasy planet with bugs that look like leaves, orangutans, fiddle-head ferns, constellations, sunsets. If we found it on another planet, we’d call it paradise. And it’s right here, right now, this incredibly abundant gift. I want to project awe, and wonder, and reverence. I want people to remember there is no backup planet.

Anything else you would like to add?

I’m working on a massive project right now, a love letter to California that will be presented sometime in late October. So keep an eye out. And I’m plugging

away at the bookstore creating monthly events for the creative community like maker’s fairs, poetry readings, book signing, artist talks, and more, so I hope to see everybody out at those. As for advice: Buy the art, promote your friends, go to all the shows. It keeps our community vibrant.

"Sound", 2022

"The king of the ocean has all the power and mystery of the sea itself, alien and wise as an octopus, life-sustaining as a kelp forest, a coral reef. And all that power is here used to protect this little seahorse. This is an homage to the men who use their power to protect, nurture, and grow what’s in their care."

"A Human Constellation" 2021

"A piece of the night itself, chipped off and strolling through the night garden. The only way to see him is by his twinkling constellations, which he’s brought with him in his body. The night is dangerous, unknown, puts a human on their back foot in a lot of ways. But the night is also alluring, a question you have to answer for yourself. Who are you when you can’t see what’s around you? Who are you when you can’t be seen?"

"Aquestrians" 2009

"Under the waves, three water horses spend long hours weaving rings out of naturally occuring veins of gold. This is my daughter, who gave us these metaphorical gold rings and married us together when she sprouted between us."

The analogies of Harry Potter & Lord of the rings

- By Eddie Walker

For years, die-hard fans have been debating whether the stories of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings exist in the same universe. Some say that they don’t, while others insist that they do. We’re here to tell you that it may be a possibility, let’s take a

look at the similarities.

Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings are both fantasy novels with a quest for the protagonist to defeat evil forces, but there’s more to these stories than just war and magic. Let’s take a look at a few obvious similarities between Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.

Both Harry Potter and Frodo Baggins parents are deceased and live with their relatives—harry his aunt and uncle— and Frodo his second cousin who is Bilbo Baggins. So both Harry and Frodo are orphans, that go from zero to hero.

In both realms, there’s an evil force seeking to gain supreme power and control: Voldemort is threatening to take over the Wizarding World; Sauron is threatening to take over Middle Earth. Both of these dark villains even have the same nickname “The Dark Lord.” They also had horcruxes that they place part of themselves into so they may always live on forever. For Voldemort he had seven! As for Sauron his was the dark tower and the ring.

In both realms we can find wise old mentors— Gandalf and Dumbledore who interestingly enough look similar in appearance with the long grey hair and beards, which are characteristics associated with wisdom. These two figures also have a genuine connection with the protagonists and aim to assist them in achieving their quest to defeat the dark forces.

Both protagonists are young men who meet friends that become like family. The camaraderie is crucial to their triumph over obstacles on their way to defeating these evil forces. And also to their advantage Harry and Frodo have a special sword that helps them along the way (Harry’s is called “the sword of Gryffindor,” while Frodo’s is called “Sting”).

In addition, the Harry and Frodo had power of invisibility, Harry had the cloak and Frodo had the ring. However, for Frodo to use the ring’s invisibility came with dangerous consequences, unlike Harry's cloak.

Dobby and Gollum were very similar in ways yet so different. For example, they both spoke in third person, but these two had more differences than similarities. While Dobby represented loyalty and service for others, Gollum represented greed and deceit. Nonetheless, both characters were pivotal to the plot of their respective stories.

Whilst, there are vast amounts of similarities between Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings it does appear that the two timelines are in separate universes and realms. However, it is likely that J.R.R. Tolkien was a prime influence on J.K. Rowling, observing all the commonalities between the two fantasy worlds.

SWORD OF GRYFFIDOR

Ruben Unzueta

Wood Sculptor. Painter. Singer

Using imagination and visualization Ruben

Unzueta is chipping

away at perfecting his craft of wood sculpting. In addition to carving creations Ruben also is an arylics painter.

Aside from wood sculpting and painting, you can find Ruben grounding himself in his garden or singing a sweet tune “I love to sing. I especially enjoy harmonizing in a group or choir. It’s such a beautiful and unifying experience to perfectly harmonize with other singers. It’s elevating to the soul.” Says Ruben.

Ruben’s innate inclinations to fantasy fiction has brought about several commissions which are usually utilized for cosplay props. Other related fantasy inspired props that Ruben creates are wizard pipes, masks, and Katanas.

The Katanas in particular bring Ruben immense pleasure to

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

create, “I just want to make something that makes me happy. I made five wooden katanas and then painted them all. I sold the other four, but decided to keep one for myself.” Expresses Ruben.

Humble and conscientious Ruben Unzueta is following his life’s calling by making creations that bring the utmost joy and pleasure to his heart. . My MediuM for creativity is searching for a feel or wholeness in a piece. if a piece Makes Me feel satisfied, i know i’ve reached the desired point. it’s like eating good food. you just feel good afterwards.

The didgeridoo.

Title: Hunger

Year: 2018

"The didgeridoo piece was made from an old book describing the South Beach diet. I used paper mache to create it. The thought behind it is to not only show hunger but to hear it."

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

Mandalorian Helmet

TiTle: Cosplay Mando Helmet

Year: 2022

"It’s made from cardboard because I want to stick with creating art and even cosplays out of natural materials. Cardboard is essential a natural material, so I decided to use it. It was more of a personal challenge to see if I could make it."

The Mask of Spoken Truth

TiTle: M.O.S.T.

Year: 2021

"This mask was made to represent an impactful truth spoken to the viewer in their lives. It’s meant to remind the viewer about how unassailable truth is when spoken. This piece is completely made from found materials here in Sacramento. Those pieces are palm wood, redwood, palm fronds. I also used gold paint and varnish to finish the mask."

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

INTERVIEW

Greetings Ruben, tell the readers about yourself.

My name is Ruben Uriel Unzueta. I am 36 years old. I am Mexican American. My favorite hobby is rowing a vegetable garden. I love the mandalorian and the lord of the rings. I re-watch them all the time. My biggest accomplishment is to have made it this far and learning to accept that I am a creative person who is happiest when making art.

I see you’re quite the artist and craftsman, what would you say your medium of creativity is?

My medium for creativity is searching for a feel or wholeness in a piece. If a piece makes me feel satisfied, I know I’ve reached the desired point. It’s like eating good food. You just feel good afterwards.

Have you always been into art & creativity your whole life? What inspired your creativity?

Yes, I have. Although, seeing myself as creative was not always as clear as it is to me now. I would say play and imagination inspired my creativity because as a young kid I definitely used my imagination to be creative.

How did you cultivate the artistic and wood sculpting skills?

I am introverted so finding time to cultivate my sculpting skills came natural to me. A lot of practice and error went into my current skill level.

Do you create with materials other than wood such as glass or metal?

I am interested in bladesmithing, but so far I only make wooded art pieces.

What inspires you to create a new piece? What does that creative process look like?

My instinct and need to create. It usually starts with and idea or a sketch. From there I create a template, find a nice piece of wood and get to work. A commission can also prompt me to create a new piece.

Other than art and wood sculpting, what other passions do you have in life?

I love to sing. I especially enjoy harmonizing in a group or choir. It’s such a beautiful and unifying experience to perfectly harmonize with other singers. It’s elevating to the soul.

What’s something that you feel people should know about you, that ultimately influences your creativity?

Curiosity, chasing a feeling of completion, wholeness, and satisfaction of making a well made piece.

What does creating do for you emotionally, spiritually, and mentally?

There are moments of frustration, but for the most part it is like a therapy/meditation session. I’ve worked through tough times and tough emotions while working on art.

Based on your experiences throughout your journey, what advice would give to an aspiring creative/artist?

Be curious, be humble, be honest, don’t stop being you, and stay safe.

THE Katana

TiTle: Wooden Katana

Year: 2017

What is your mantra for 2023?

Finish what you started.

Any final thoughts you would like to add?

People, use us creative people. We exist, and we make cool stuff. Follow me on ig lazyturtleworks. I take commissions!!

Sometimes, I just want to make something that makes me happy. I made five wooden katanas and then painted them all. I sold the other four, but decided to keep one for myself.

Wizard Pipe

"During covid quarantine I grew Marijuana for the first time and I wanted to smoke it. I was watching lord of the rings at this time and I thought it would be cool to make a pipe like the one Gandalf had. I use branches and wood from my garden for every pipe I make. I especially look for natural elbows in branches and dence woods."

Photo Credit: Eddie Walker

Realm Dimension Vs

Realms and dimensions are energetic planes of existence that makeup infinite realities. To elaborate realms can be viewed as a locality of existence like a kingdom, city, planet, solar system, or a galaxy. Furthermore, a realm can be thought of as New York City being within America’s realm, Los Angeles being within California’s realm, or the Milky Way galaxy being within the universe’s realm.

Dimensions exist within realms and are ultimately governed by frequencies and/or points in space and time that create conscious reality. Within those realms dimensions can emit frequencies which increase and change the attributes in the realm— such as the first dimension (length), second dimension (width), third dimension (height), fourth dimension (time), fifth dimension (spirituality/energy), sixth dimension (consciousness), seventh dimension (love), eighth dimension (infinity),

ninth dimension (void)— and not every realm holds space for every dimension. For example, if hell were a realm you wouldn’t find the seventh dimension within hell. The seventh dimension is the frequency of love and love does not exist in Hell.

Examples of dimensions from a metaphysical perspective can be thought of as states of being or awareness within the given realm that manifests reality.

Each realm has its own laws and rules that govern how it operates. For example, one realm may be governed by magic while another realm may be governed by science. In the same light each dimension has its own rules and attributes depending on the frequency and vibration it emits. As a result, the fequency/vibration will determine the existence within that realm.

Becca Lennon's "Journey into the All Knowing Eye"

is a perfect depiction of how realms and dimensions are intertwined with one another.

Fairy Rings:

A circular area of grass that is darker in color than the surrounding grass due to the growth of certain fungi. They were popularly believed to have been caused by fairies dancing.

The Myths of Fairy Rings

Fairy rings are a beautiful phenome- non that occurs in nature. Fairy rings are found in open grassy places and in forests. They’re formed when fungi spread underground and the mushrooms above ground are just the tip of the iceberg (so to speak).

The mushrooms are connected by mycelium—a network of threads that grow out from the center of the original clump of mushrooms. In this way, fairy rings can grow over large areas of land, making them truly magical.

Myths behind the fairy rings.

The name “fairy ring” comes from the folklore surrounding these natural formations. Nearly every culture has their own mythical unique story as to what these circles could be. In English folklore, it’s said that fairies dance in circles at night, leaving behind these rings as evidence of their presence on Earth.

Some believe these circles are por- tals to another realm (so is it possi- ble you could step through one and not return.) Who knows the truth, nonetheless it’s still a peculiar phenomenon!

Exploring Becca Lennon’s Celestial Art

From Tuscaloosa, Alabama —

Becca Lennon is creating magical works of art that perfectly embody the universe’s celestial elements. To accomplish this astonishing result, Becca utilizes acrylic and airbrush paint to reach the level of serenity that is flawlessly integrated into her art.

When we asked Becca what inspires her while creating a new piece, Becca replied “My visions I get while meditating are the main inspiration behind my work! Art is a very spiritual practice for me, it provides me an avenue to connect with the creative energy of the universe, the same energy that created galaxies, planets, animals and nature! Also, the freedom that art provides is endlessly inspiring, I can create any new world that I desire.”

Although, Becca makes creating her masterpieces look easy— it usually takes her

anywhere from 100-500 hours to complete!

On top of Becca’s sensational art she also owns a clothing line. As Becca states, “my motivation to start a clothing line stems from me wanting to adorn my body with clothing that aligns with my love for creativity and art. It is a new way for me to express myself! It is also a lot of fun to see my digital work and paintings featured in a new way. It has helped boost my income so that I can continue pursuing art full time.” Along with being a full-time artist Becca is also a full-time wife and mother.

Ultimately, Becca Lennon has taken her intuitive visions of nirvana and given life to them on canvases. As a result, people get to experience the magnificence of other worldly realms and dimensions from Becca’s unique and spiritual perspective.

“My visions I get while meditating are the main inspiration behind my work! Art is a very spiritual practice for me.”

Photo Credit: Eyes of Corn Media

I N T E R V I

Hi Becca, enlighten the readers on who you are.

Hi! I am a 26 year old full time artist, mom and wife. I have a 6 year old daughter and a 7 month old Dachshund named sunshine. I spend most of my time making art, designing clothing, and spending time with my family! My other hobbies include decorating, meditation, yoga, dancing and reading. I also love a good psychological thriller. My favorite foods include Mexican and Indian cuisine, I’m a big fan of spice!

What and who inspired you to become an artist?

EI have always been an artist of some form since I was a child. I would draw often and periodically paint. I started to focus on art as an every day activity after having a spiritual experience while painting where I felt as if the universe was expressing itself through me. Since then I have been painting nearly every day.

WWhen did you begin creating art?

As soon as I could hold a crayon/marker/pencil. I have been painting Consistently for about 5 years now.

Photo Credit: Eyes of Corn Media

What is your medium of art, what attracted you to that style?

I paint with acrylics using regular brushes and an airbrush. I love the glowing effect that the airbrush offers.

What are your inspiration's behind your new pieces?

My visions I get while meditating are the main inspiration behind my work! Art is a very spiritual practice for me, it provides me an avenue to connect with the creative energy of the universe, the same energy that created galaxies, planets, animals and nature! Also the freedom that art provides is endlessly inspiring, I can create any new world that I desire.

When painting a new piece what does your creative routine/process look like?

I usually always start out by meditating, I get strong visions I see with my minds eye. I then sketch out the idea and plan it out before I ever start painting. After I have it planned out I paint it layer by layer over weeks or months.

Where do you find the creative insights to create your amazing masterpieces?

I say most my ideas come from visions of other dimensions, they feel like real places I can visit in my mind.

What's something you want people to know about your art?

It takes me a LOT of time! Most my paintings take anywhere from 100500 hours to complete.

What does creating do for you emotionally, spiritually, and mentally?

Art is a very spiritual practice for me, it starts with meditation where I connect with my higher self. This leads to seeing visions of different realms in my minds eye which I then later translate to paintings. Each vision has lessons that I learn that advance my spiritual growth. Mentally art is a stimulating and enjoyable process where my creativity is free to express itself. Emotionally is helps me process my emotions in a different way— I can see them and understand them better through artistic expression.

I really love animals, I have volunteered in the past at the humane society to help care for unadopted pets. I also really love to decorate and practice my hand at interior design within my own home!

What advice would you give to a new artist looking to follow in your footsteps?

Create for you. Don’t worry about likes or comments on social media. The life of an artist as a full time job is amazing, but it is also VERY hard. Sometimes I wish I could have kept art as my passion hobby instead of monetizing it. I can’t function at a regular job due to chronic illness so art is the best avenue for me career wise currently. I wouldn’t truly change anything about my journey, but it isn’t as easy as it may look.

What has been your proudest moment as an artist?

Probably when I got asked to come to San Fransisco to paint part of a mural on Haight Street alongside other amazing artists. I was so honored and in complete shock when I was asked.

What is your mantra for 2023?

Other than art what else captures your attention/interests?

Don’t forget why you started to paint in the first place! Never lose that passion.

What impact do you want your art to have on the world?

I hope my art can inspire others to remember their true nature, and to connect with their own inner worlds.

Any final thoughts you would like to close with?

My goal with my art is to create larger and more complex paintings! I eventually want to have interactive paintings set up at festivals and art centers across the country. Any support of my work helps me continue on this path. My website is www.alteredmoonart. com and has all my available artwork featured there! You can find my other links here. Https://linktr. ee/alteredmoonart

ALTERED MOON ART

Photo Credit: Eyes of Corn Media

Joyful Journey, 2022

"Thus piece was my first painting I made with little working doors with hidden painted scenes behind them. My goal is to make more of my artwork interactive in the future and this was my first step in that direction!"

- Becca Lennon

forest, 2019

"An artistic prayer for growth and hope when moving through trauma and dark times. The pain and fear I’ve dealt with in this lifetime have been and still are a catalyst for my spiritual and personal growth. My higher self knows there is always peace and greater strength after the pain, even if I cant remember it in the moment.

This painting is to remind me and others that there is peace and joy, it is possible to find it if I look deep within myself and do my best to learn lessons from every challenge this human experience shows me. The light within will overcome any form of darkness."

- Becca Lennon

the fantastical forest, 2022

"Last is the Fantastical Forest. 2022. This piece was a fun creative piece where I expressed my Imagination through the canvas. I visit this gnome world many times in my meditations and I aimed to document this realm through this piece. This painting also touches on the idea of infinite parallel realities—a theory

based in quantum physics."

- Becca Lennon