Author: azariatina@gmail.com

This year I’m completing paintings that have been sitting unfinished in my studio. It’s taking a lot of discipline to not jump ahead and begin painting more recent visions and inspirations, without finishing what I’ve started (which is an annoying habit of mine). My guidance is crystal clear to complete and energetically close out past, lingering creative projects.

SOPHIA – the spark of light/life in all matter, the embodiment of Wisdom. The guiding principle of the materialization of spirit and the spiritualization of matter. (I started her in 2014. sigh).

I had written a couple of chapters on Sophia in the original draft of Facing the Depths, which were edited out later. The material may be published somewhere else in the future.

As I worked with my vision of the spark of light / star being that came through in a powerful vision in 2011, (which you can read about in my book), Sophia appeared as one of the archetypes associated with the vision.  I did deep research in Gnostic scriptures to help me better understand the big energies carried by the otherworldly guide who came to me in a profoundly initiatory experience, which I describe in detail in the book.

I’m not sure I’m happy with the painting, but it feels done enough, and like it’s time to move on. That much is clear

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I finally published my second book, in December 2015. It has been in the making since 2010.

The ancient shamanic art of mask work, meets depth psychology, meets art therapy.

From the Introduction:

This book arises from a spark of inspiration that sent me on an in-depth journey into the vast terrain of the human psyche. It captivated my attention and compelled me forward into an ever-deepening relationship with the mystery and power of the mask. Masks enhance our expressive powers, enrich culture, and give life to imagination. Working with masks can bring insight, emotional release and healing – leading to deeper self-awareness and wholeness.

 In this book I take you with me on a journey exploring the modern intersection of masks, sacred ceremonies and rituals, known simply as “masking” or masquerade. These rituals are a meeting of ancient expressive and healing art forms that can bring genuine renewal to individuals and to culture. It’s certainly been transformational for me and my students. I’m excited to show you what I’ve discovered about working with masks to facilitate lasting changes in the human psyche.

 I believe masking is a vestige of the past that continues to hold social and cultural relevance, even in today’s fast-paced, techno-centric world.  In this book, we’ll take a deep dive into mask work as a powerful contemporary form of art therapy that has ancient and fascinating roots.