Tag Archives: Photography

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of Dec 6, 2022

December 4, 2022 Nina

Another woman that comes out of the Bauhaus movement is Florence Henri. Henri worked with photography and painting. In both she played with plane and dimension. However, in her photography she pushed the limits of perception. By her use of mirrors and techniques of multiple exposure, photomontage, and negative printing, she has the viewer questioning what reality or reflection is. Her 1927 through 30’s studies of shapes, planes and values made her one of the first abstract photographers. Henri destabilized the camera’s capacity for realism by creating artificial and imagined spaces with these techniques. Even when she photographs reality her framing makes us rethink what we are seeing. This made her a perfect example of New Vision photography in the Bauhaus movement and a forerunner in the discussions of Surrealism.

Your pondering for the week: Look into the mirror and what do see? What is reality or a reflection of society?

Solar Systems Highlights

This week the moon starts in Taurus giving us a stable footing to begin the week with. On Wednesday it moves into Gemini- watch your conversations and tone. And for the weekend the moon is in Cancer perfect for staying home and getting your gezellig on. Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Capricorn for the rest of the year so we can get a lot done through conversations if you can compromise. Venus (beauty and harmony) also moves to Capricorn on Wednesday – where quality in spending our resources is highlighted.

Mars (action) is in Gemini (communication and knowledge), until March 25^th, 2023. This is a 7-month stopover instead of it’s usually 1-2. Mars is pushing us to truthfully talk and follow up with actions. The challenge with this time is your politeness filter has been switched off. So, it is having us double down on how to be constructive with our voice – to promote action not reaction. Jupiter is in Pisces wanting us to dream big and explore what makes us zing for another 3 weeks. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your everyday life is its intention.

****wondering how many people read these solar systems highlights or want it? Please email me or comment in Instagram if you are wanting it to stay. I’m thinking about re-formatting and only want to give what is useful.

P.S. Signs with an * it is a big week for you. Sagittarius this is a perfect time to get an Astrological Tarot Reading for your coming year. And Gemini it is your halfway mark for your birth year, so if you need a Planetary Reading for a check-in, now is the time.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

Three of Wands – This week will have its starts and stops. The Muse of Enterprise advises to use both times wisely. If you have a green light go to it. However, if you are waylaid do not stop and stall. These times of inertia are meant to regroup and set up for the next steps.

Taurus

Two of Swords – This week is full of indecision. However, the Muse of Choice reminds you that you can choose left or right. Either way will get you to where you need to be. So, flip a coin and carry on.

Gemini

*Justice – The Muse of Equity has come to have you investigate the concept of balance. Something in your life is off balance and now is the time to bring some fair play into your life. If you see an injustice speak up. Or if you are experiencing an injustice, parlay for better conditions. If you cannot find or negotiate equity, then you might have to walk away from the situation.

Cancerian

*High Priestess – The Muse of Sacred Purpose comes when in this moment in time you are needed. You may not realize that opening that door for someone reignites optimism in them, or that conversation changes someone’s perspective. You are aligned with your higher purpose even when doing these little acts. This Muse reminds you that these gifts of sacredness, of seeing someone, comes when you are being your most authentic self. You are the change in the world.

Leo

Seven of Wands – At some point this week you will be on the winning side or at an advantage. The Muse of Competition reminds us to be good sports. You have had your days in the gutter and know what it is like to not have someone give you a hand to lift you up. Because of this knowledge you can be better than you have been treated. Take the high road this week.

Virgo

*Judgement – If you could transform or liberate one thing in your life, what would it be? The Muse of Evolution asks you to ponder this question. This week you have opportunities to level up if you choose. But if you are not focused on what to transform then it might mutate into something else possible not as helpful or enlightened.

Libra

Knight of Cups – The Muse of Romance would like you to spice up your love life. She suggests fire-light, coziness, flowers, and intimate gestures. Now even if you are not in a relationship, you are in one with yourself. So, take time this week to treat yourself and those you love with extra care.

Scorpio

Six of Coins – Reciprocity is the name of the game this week. The Muse of Mini-karma comes to redistribute wealth and energy this week. She reminds you if you do a good deed, it will come back around though often in a convoluted way. But this also works with negativity. Watch you p’s and q’s this week.

Sagittarius

Two of Wands – Your second energy for this year is the Muse of Mindfulness. This year it is important that you stay in the moment. This is not a year to hold on to the past nor is it a year to think too far into the future. This year is about day to day living. How you can live fully each day this year. This Muse suggests either taking a picture a day or writing about one significant thing that happens each day to help take note of the moments.

Capricorn

Nine of Coins – The Muse of Self-Awareness would like you to recognize how good you are at standing in yourself. This week may have its ups and downs, but you are doing your best mountain goat personification. You are rock solid even though the ground might not be.

Aquarius

Knight of Pentacles – The Muse of Stability advises that slow and steady wins the race. Push back if someone is rushing you. You know what pace is appropriate for what action. Take your time, not others.

Pisces

*Chariot – The Muse of Self-Motivation is here to cheer you on to change something. She advises that you start small at first. Get rid of one thing you don’t use each day, exercise for 5 minutes each day, eat at least 3 out of the seven colored fruits. By moving just, a notch in the right direction you begin the process that will gain momentum. Consistency is more important than amount.

Tarotcast

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of Nov 6, 2022

November 6, 2022 Nina

First, I wanted to thank you all for tuning in. I just finished my seventh year doing this blog, and I really am grateful for you joining me on this exploration of art, tarot, and science as differing conduits to deciphering our collective experience. I started this journey because I missed working with teachers and students, showing them fun ways of imparting and integrating science and social studies’ knowledge through the arts. My focus for these posts has become more dedicated to the under-represented artists that we don’t historically see or who have been forgotten. And then also my personal bias and love for art that combines science or has a social/cultural aspects. Art that is not only visually intriguing but also tries to teach or open us to another’s perspective. And then I throw in animals becasue you know they are cool. Again, I can’t thank you enough for being with me on this road.

And now your artist for this week is Elke Vogelsang @wieselblitz. She is a photographer of dogs, cats, and horses. I go to her page when I need to be uplifted. Vogelsang does capture their more regal and beautiful side, but she has an uncanny ability to also pulls out their goofy side. The side of our pets that makes us laugh when we want to cry. Science has proven that nature and animals lower our blood pressure, calm our nervous system, and increase our oxytocin. Her story on what brought her to this love of photography is worth the read.

Your pondering for the week: Would you want to return as a cat, a dog or a horse?

Solar Systems Highlights

The Moon starts the week in Taurus – ground yourself and dive into your workload. By Wednesday it moves into Gemini, great for conversation and knowledge gathering. On Friday the moon moves into Cancer so the weekend get homey and focus on self-care. No shifts from last week, so continue to focus on: Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Scorpio (passion), so conversations can be intriguing and/or impassioned. If there is a crack or wound in your relationship it will show up during this time. This pairing brings aspects to work on out of the shadows and pushes us to heal them. Venus (beauty and harmony) is also in Scorpio counter balancing Mercury and Mars’ placement. It is highlighting your sex life and passion.

Mars (action) is in Gemini (communication and knowledge), until March 25^th, 2023. This is a 7-month stopover instead of it’s usually 1-2. Mars is pushing us to truthfully, talk our walk. The challenge with this time is your politeness filter has been switched off. So, it and Mercury are having us double down on how to be constructive with our voice – to promote action not reaction. Jupiter has moved into Pisces wanting us to dream big and explore what pleasantly gets us up in the morning. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your everyday life is its intention.

P.S. Signs with an * it is a big week for you. Scorpio this is a perfect time to get an Astrological Tarot Reading for your coming year. And Taurus it is your halfway mark for your birth year, so if you need a Planetary Reading for a check-in, now is the time.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

*Devil – This week something will feel off. You know like when your neck hairs raise up or you get that feeling not to do something. Heed that instinct. The Muse of Mayhem is lurking in the shadows tempting you to doubt yourself. This muse does not want to damage you but to divert you from your path. So stay true to the best part of you and stay the course.

Taurus

Page of Coins – Take time this week to learn a new skill set. The Muse of Skill comes just before you need this new talent to upgrade your future. She advises to hit the books, do a workshop, learn something new that will improve your viability in the workforce and/or a survival skill while humaning. Your motto: I am a lifelong learner.

Gemini

Five of Wands – This week has aspects of chaos. The Muse of Ego intervenes by reminding you that this turmoil is based in gameplay, and it is your choice to accept or decline the challenge. You can easily walk away from the situation without obligation or karma. But if you decide to play, remember to keep your ego in check and play by the rules.

Cancerian

*Fool – The Muse of Beginnings is here to start you on a new adventure. The challenge is that it is a journey that you can not plan all the aspects for. It is a quest that encourages faith in yourself and the Universe. You have the knowledge and tools you need to start this endeavor, and you are clever enough to figure out the rest as it comes. So do not fear the unknown, take the first step into this new venture.

Leo

*Magician – The Muse of Manifestation is prompting you to conjure up something. However, she would like you to tap into the divine for inspiration. She encourages your imagination to make broad sweeping gestures, or in contrast manifest meaning in even the smallest of actions. She challenges you to bring the divine into the everyday and to remind your life can be magical. The wand is in your hand.

Virgo

*Moon – You may need to find some solitude to dive into your subconscious for insight this week. The emotions that are sparked have roots in the past. The Muse of Shadow Work would like you to explore the whys behind your feelings. She reminds you to do this work you will need to have self-compassion as your companion for this trip into the shadows. That mistakes and missteps are universal, and they are there to help us discover new paths that our ancestors/role models did not know how to navigate. So, tread lightly on your moonwalk.

Libra

*Sun – This is your week to shine Libra. This muse would like you to use your super-powers for the good of all. The challenge for you is to accept the accolades and gifts from using them. So, if someone says thank you, don’t bow in humility, say your welcome and walk with your head held high for being such a good human. This is a practice not only in good deeds but also modeling what healthy self-worth looks like.

Scorpio

Four of Coins – Your third Muse for this year is the Muse of Resources. This year you will need to attend to your resources: space, time energy and money. This can look like saving money, when spending buy with quality in mind, creating healthy boundaries around how and what you spend your time on, or even how you share physical space. This Muse shows up to help you readjust and refocus on how and what you spend and save your resources on. This year is about increasing efficiency and banking assets for “rainy days.”

Sagittarius

Five of Coins – The Muse of Hardship is visiting you this week. She does not bring the difficulty but comes to make sure you have a safety net when adversity comes around. She asks you what do you need to feel safe if calamity strikes? Things like: is your spare tire inflated? Do you have some cash on hand? Have you touched base with the person that is always there for you?

Capricorn

*Death – The Muse of Organic Change is here to help you let go and move forward. She reminds you that change happens whether we like it or not. Nature moves from season to season. The shedding and composting of Fall and Winter need to happen so Spring can flourish. You know this but your pragmatism can get in the way of the natural flow of a situation this week. Over analyzation will not help. This change is a process that takes time but like Spring will bring forth a new season of growth.

Aquarius

Three of Coins – The Muse of Teamwork comes when it is vital for you to work with others. Collaboration is key this week. As they say two heads are better than one. However, three heads and six hands are even better. Take the help when offered and ask for it when you need it.

Pisces

*High Priestess – The Muse of Sacred Mystery comes when you need to work on your intuition and purpose. She advises to pay attention to synchronicities. The challenge is the synchronicity is not the clue but what you were doing or feeling at the time. Think of them like signposts that say, “pay attention now”. When you hone this skill of following the signs and interrupting the clues you begin to see the path more clearly. So, look for trends this week and make sure you take time to contemplate the puzzles.

Tarotcast

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of Oct. 25, 2022

October 23, 2022 Nina

Peter's dwarf epauletted fruit bat — Peter’s dwarf epauleted fruit bat (Micropteropus pusillus)

Continuing the theme of October and eeriness we turn from Art to the animal world, specifically, bats. There are over 1,400 bat species worldwide. You can find them everywhere but within the Artic and Antarctic circles. Bats’ order, Chiroptera, composes about 20% of all mammal species. They are classified into two groups, basically megabats and microbats. Megabats eat fruit, nectar or pollen and do not use echolocation. Where microbats do use echolocation and eat mostly insects but also fruit, nectar, pollen, fish, frogs, small mammals and 3 species eat blood. Making bats essential to ecology as pollinators and a natural from of insect management. Even though bats are vital in suppressing mosquito-borne diseases, they can carry rabies and other pathogens, so it is important not handle them in the wild. Bats can have a long life spanning up to 40 years. Most are nocturnal though they predominately hunt around dawn and dusk.

Depending on the culture bats are seen as protectors or associated with evil. For example, the Creek, Cherokee and Apache see them as a trickster. In the European culture they are associated with witchcraft, vampires, and death. Shakespeare has the Weird Sisters in Macbeth using fur of a bat in their brew. And of course, there is Bram Stroker’s Dracula. The bat is sacred in Tonga seen as a detached soul. In ancient Mesoamerica a bat god presided over fertility and corn. And in China five bats symbolize the five blessing: longevity, prosperity, health, love of virtue and a peaceful death. I personally find many bats cute, so above and below you will see my favorite flying fur balls.

Your pondering for the week: If you could be any animal what would you choose? Why?

Solar Systems Highlights

The Moon continues in Libra, so the focus is still on relationships. By Tuesday it moves into Scorpio, a new moon and a solar eclipse, so it is a perfect time to reignite your passions. On Thursday the moon moves into Sagittarius time to expand your boundaries, and then for the weekend it moves into Capricorn so try not to take your work home with you.

Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Libra (relationships), to help you smooth some of the snafus that Mars is churning up. Venus (beauty and harmony) has moved into Scorpio highlighting your sex life and all things that make you “shiver with anticipation.” Mars (action) is in Gemini (communication and knowledge), until March 25^th, 2023. This is a 7-month stopover instead of it’s usually 1-2. Mars is pushing us to truthfully, talk our walk. The challenge with this time is your politeness filter has been switched off. So, it also has us working on how to be constructive with our voice – to promote action not reaction. Jupiter is in Aries; it supports activity and expansion until October 28^th. Then it moves into Pisces wanting us to dream big and explore. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your game is its intention.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

Bats — Eastern red bat (Lasiurus boralis)

Page of Wands – Last week you got the Muse of Manifestation gifting you divine inspiration, but the work was up to you to bring it to life. This week the Muse of Creativity would like to help continue your conjuring. However, she advices to push your creativity and experimentation farther. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Take the sage advice of Thomas Edison: I have not failed 10,000 times—I’ve successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work.

Taurus

Eight of Cups – Last week the Muse of Structure was advising that now is the time to tidy up your space, schedule and how you do things to make them more efficient. The Muse of Simplification continues this energy by asking you to streamline your daily activities and minimalize the stuff around you. This can look as simple as clean your desk or go through you junk drawer/closet and get rid of stuff. Clutter in any form is not your friend this week.

Gemini

King of Coins – The Muse of Finance is here pushing you to get your monies in order. Take this week to balance your checkbook, add to your savings account, pay off more on your credit cards. You need to gain a realistic perspective of your assets and your debts. So, you can responsibly finance your wants in the coming months.

Cancerian

Bumblebee bat – Craseonycteris thonglongyai – smallest bat

Page of Cups – The Muse of Playfulness comes when you need to be less goal oriented and bring more delight into your life. Now this muse emphasis that joy often comes with more socializing, curiosity, and openness to change perspective. It can be as simple as, if you find yourself on the couch, move to the floor, asking more why questions, or playing games with your loved ones. Let your inner child free-range this week.

Leo

Desert long eared bat Otonycteris_hemprichii

*Death – The Muse of Organic Change comes with her spade and sickle in hand. You are ready for change to happen but before it does you have to pull some weeds and ready the soil. Take time this week to get rid of emotions, thoughts or things that are no longer needed. And then clean the physical space, calm your mind, and/or do a simple detox for your body (Epsom salt bath or sauna).

Virgo

Queen of Coins – This week you need to pleasantly pamper yourself. The Muse of Pleasure asks you how you compensate yourself, when you work as hard as you do? When you indulge, do you feel good about it? Or if you don’t, why do you work so hard if you are not reaping some benefit? If you cannot give yourself some compensation for your hard work, then something is amiss with the work or your concept of deserving. You might have to start fixing that first if that is the case. Either way you still need to find a healthy way to treat yourself this week.

Libra

Four of Wands- The Muse of Happy Home is wanting you to make your home a bit more comfortable. Do you need to do a deep clean in your bedroom? Do you need to rearrange your furniture? Put up some photos of your family? Does your living room need a splash of color. Take this week before we hit holiday season and work on your living space.

Scorpio

*Chariot and Hanged One – Ok you have two Muses or paths for the start of your birth year. The first is one of Change. This Muse is about self-propulsion. If you want things to change it will be up to you to set the GPS. She will help with the energy, but you must set the destination and plot the journey. Or you can go with the second the Muse of Inertia and stay where you are. However, this path is a meditation, an internal transformation. You will dive deep into self-reflection and modify emotions and thoughts. So, it’s up to you, change the outside or change the inside. You’ll have most of this year to pick who you would like to work with.

Sagittarius

Page of Swords – You will need to gather intel this week. The Muse of Inquiry is here to help. She advises to not take the first answer to a question as absolute fact. There is more just under the surface. It is not that people are hiding things on purpose but more they have not realized the answer either. The challenge is not making the inquires feel like an inquisition.

Capricorn

Hammer Nosed Bat Hypsignathus_monstrosus

Six of Cups –The Muse of Recollection comes when the past holds information for the present. If something reminds you of childhood, dive deep into it this week. With this week’s Scorpio new moon and solar eclipse, you can do some pertinent shadow work and healing around the past.

Aquarius

Ten of Cups – The Muse of Happiness is shining on you this week. She reminds you that happiness is fleeting so really revel in the moments of joy when they come. She suggests by the end of the week writing down ten small moments of bliss. By doing so you will find that there are more than ten, or if you are having trouble then you need to see you are trying to idealize an innately hard situation.

Pisces

Ten of Coins – The Muse of Shortcuts is here to tell you this week there are none. Everything will work out if you take a longer view. You are on the right path, doing the right thing, now it will just take dedication and time to “bake the cake”.

Tarotcast

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of Sept. 25, 2022

September 25, 2022 Nina

The artist this week is Shirin Neshat @shirin__neshat. Neshat is a photographer and filmmaker. She left Iran in 1974 as a teenager and return eleven years after Islamic Revolution in 1979. Her memory of cosmopolitan Tehranian women in miniskirts was replaced by formless black chadors. This visual and ideological change is one of the many ideas she expresses in her art. Her photographs and films are often in black and white. She uses this color contrast to explore the dichotomy in religion, politics, violence, and feminism. She explains aspects of this exploration about her video Turbulent, 1998. “Her music and her presence in this room represents something rebellious,” Neshat explains. “… This is indicative of how I feel about women in Iran. In the way that they are so far against the wall, but they are far more resilient and protesting and they’re much more of a fighter than the men because they have much more at stake.”

Twenty-four years later this is still true. On Tuesday, September 13^th, Masha Amini was arrested for allegedly breaking hijab rules and suffered from multiple blows to the head before dying three days later in the hospital. Women throughout Iran are protesting cutting their hair and burning their head coverings in solidarity. This news resonates with reproductive rights issues in US, Muslims in France being able to wear a hijab, LGBTQ+ rights, racism, the Uyghur genocide in China, etc… These are all issues around the subjugation of choice and identity. Anytime someone is singled out or seen as other, we are not adhering to the creed of equality. It is vital for all of us to support woman’s choice, LGBTQ+ rights, and rally against, genderism, racism and extremism before more people die.

Your pondering for the week: How do you support freedom of choice and diversity in your own neighborhood as well as around the world? One way in the US is to vote.

Solar Systems Highlights

The Moon starts the week in Libra – relationships are the focus. Then on Tuesday it moves onto Scorpio – indulge in a passion. By Friday and through the weekend, it is in Sagittarius – go adventuring. Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Virgo where practical communication is key. Also, Mercury and 6 other planets are still in retrograde. So, take time for revising, reviewing, and reassessment, and if you must start something new or travel just prepare for upsets or a slowing down of the progress.

Venus (beauty and harmony) is in Virgo all this month a perfect time to tidy up your house and bring practical aesthetics into your life. Mars (action) is in Gemini, where it will stay until March 25^th, 2023. Yes, this is a 7 month stay instead of it’s usually 1-2. Mars is pushing us to truthfully, talk our walk. The challenge with this time is your politeness filter has been switched off. So, it also has us working on how to be constructive with our voice – to promote action not reaction. Jupiter is in Aries; it influences action and expansion until October 28^th. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your game is its focus.

P.S. Signs with an * it is a big week for you. Libra this is a perfect time to get an Astrological Tarot Reading for your coming year. And Aries it is your halfway mark for your birth year, so if you need a Planetary Reading for a check-in, now is the time.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

King of Pentacles – The energy this week is all about resource building. This Muse wants you to invest in what will make your present and future more stable. She asks you to find ways to increase your income, send out resumes and investigate other job opportunities. Not so much for you to make a switch, though you can, but to give you more information on how to improve your income like asking for a raise or working from home part time. Also, this is a great time to start or finish projects.

Taurus

Two of Swords – The Muse of Decision comes when you need to reconnect with how you feel about your choices more than focusing on the outcome. This week is about the journey not the destination.

Gemini

*Justice – The Muse of Equity comes to help you rebalance a situation, paradigm, or relationship. She asks what is setting you off balance this week and then how can the solution be more equitable for all involved? The challenge is if you are laying down the law that not only is it justifiable, but it must also be flexible.

Cancerian

Three of Wands – Last week the Muse of Structure asked you to reinforce and tweak the structures in your life, the where, when, and how parts. This week the Muse of Planning continues this theme, focusing on if your plans are sufficient and sustainable. Again, this energy is aligning perfectly with this retrograde season. Keep reflecting, reviewing and readjust when necessary.

Leo

Seven of Wands – The Muse of Boundaries comes when you will need to have strong boundaries and may have to strive to hold them in place. The challenge is you may feel judge this week. But this Muse reminds you that only you know your true mind, and what makes you happy. Your motto: Know thyself.

Virgo

*Fool – The Muse of Adventure is wanting you to expand your space. She asks you to do something out of the ordinary, find new places to discover, eat new things, explore all that the world is offering you right now. She also reminds you that spontaneity may be needed to get you out and about.

Libra

Six of Wands – The Muse of Good News is your second energy to work with this birth year. She brings you success not only on things that you focus on but also spontaneous wins. You will need to still work but overall, this year has lovely spots throughout to rest on your laurels and enjoy your wins. She reminds you this is where you will be challenged, so pause and celebrate your little and big wins this year before moving to your next quest.

Scorpio

Two of Pentacles – The Muse of Juggling is here to help you navigate this week. She advises this is not a week to multi-task but to take on one item at a time. You can juggle two things at most but no more, or you may have to clean up after or fix a variety of mishaps.

Sagittarius

Knight of Cups – The Muse of Charisma is advising you to turn yours on this week. The challenge is you will have to show a bit of vulnerability to be believed. Time to wear your heart on your sleeve.

Capricorn

Ten of Coins – The energy this week wants you to check off some items on your to do list. This is a week that finishing a project is well rewarded. The challenge is after you have completed a project to honor and enjoy the completion before moving on to the next task.

Aquarius

Queen of Coins – Where last week was work related, this week the Muse of Abundance wants you to enjoy your hard labor. She reminds you that you work hard so you can relax into the feeling of abundance and grace. So, enjoy the pleasures of a job well done.

Pisces

Seven of Cups – The Muse of Dreams comes when you need to cast some wishes out into the Universe. The challenge is they need to be realistic. This is less “dream big” and more “dream wisel

Tarotcast

Tarot & Art Forecast for Week of Aug 28, 2022

August 28, 2022 Nina

The artist this week is Berenice Abbott. Abbott started her work in portrait photography in the 1920’s in Paris and Berlin, a contemporary of Man Ray. A visit to New York City in 1929 made her and her focus move onto the streets of New York City. Abbott was fascinated how environment effected city dwellers’ collective behavior and vice versa. She believed through her photographs that people could be empowered to take control of the urban sprawl and make it more humane. Abbott was part of the straight photography movement, but you can see her point of view through her choice of angles. Skyscrapers became menacing, and inhabitants are like ants. During this time, she invented a distortion enlarging easel, which created unusual effects on images, and the telescopic lighting pole, still used today. In 50’s and 60’s her photography focus changed again, to Physics.

Science was always part of her art. In April 1939, Berenice Abbott wrote a “manifesto” entitled Photography and Science. “We live in a world made by science,” she stated. “There needs to be a friendly interpreter between science and the layman. I believe photography can be this spokesman, as no other form of expression can be.” And this Physics series is what I highlighted for this week. Not only does it articulate the psychical aspect of physics, but it also highlights the beauty of it.

Your pondering for the week: Find the beauty in the everyday.

Solar System Highlights

The Moon starts in Libra – balance and relationships are highlighted. Then it is on Wednesday onto Scorpio – a time to reignite your passions. For the weekend the Moon moves into Sagittarius – travel and discovery are the focus. Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Libra where communication in your relationships is highlighted. Venus (beauty and harmony) is in Leo – update your style, bio and resume so you can accent your shine.

Mars (action) is now in Gemini, where it will stay until March 25^th, 2023. Yes, that is a 7 month stay instead of it’s usually 1-2. Mars is pushing us to truthfully talk our walk. The challenge with this time is your politeness filter has been switched off. So, it has us working on how to be constructive with our voice – to promote action not reaction. Jupiter is in Aries; it influences action and expansion until October 28^th. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your game is its focus.

P.S. Signs with an * it is a big week for you. Virgo this is a perfect time to get an Astrological Tarot Reading for your coming year. And Pisces it is your halfway mark for your birth year, so if you need a Planetary Reading for a check-in, now is the time.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

Ten of Pentacles – Something on the material plane is coming full circle this week. The Muse of Ancestry is here to help you close old cycles and release ancestral debts. What fiscal dogma no longer serves you? Take the lessons learned and close this chapter. So, you may start anew.

Taurus

*High Priestess –The concept of pondering continues this week with the Muse of Knowledge. Where last week you had to glean information from perspective, this week’s muse gives you hints and clues like easter eggs. She wants you to follow your intuition and synchronicities to gather bits of wisdom and then decipher the messages. So be on the lookout for multiple numbers and reoccurring themes. By following the spiritual breadcrumbs, you will find answers, help, or materials for how to move forward in the coming weeks. And remember you can ask questions but like the sphinx this muse talks in riddles.

Gemini

Five of Wands – The energy this week is very chaotic. However, it is your choice on whether to engage. If this is a challenge you want to work with then do so, you will learn a lot. But if you are too tired or bored then feel justified to walk away. But remember this “game” has rules to play by.

Cancerian

Eight of Wands – This week is full of information, some for you, some for others, and some just useless commercials. The challenge is trying to discern which is which. The Muse of Messages helps by advising you to focus on questions you want answers for and/or themes for your creative process. Then sort the incoming convos through them.

Leo

Queen of Wands – The Muse of Creatures comes when nature is calling to you. Flora and Fauna are inspiration, solace, protection, and messengers for you this week. Did anyone say Cat Café?

Virgo

Ace of Wands – Your second Muse for your birth year is the Muse of Genesis. Creation and new beginnings are potent this year. This is the year to start new projects, move, expand your social circle and your passions. What seeds do you want to plant that will sustain you for months and years to come?

Libra

*World – The Muse of Opportunities is knocking at the door. The challenge is opening it. Whether it’s fear or just feeling overloaded, you would like not to put more on your plate. And this Muse agrees. Something will need to end to bring the new in. So, time to finish up something or let go of something that just isn’t working. Because new prospects need a seat at your table.

Scorpio

Page of Swords – The Muse of Reporters comes when you need to do some investigation into situations. For example, you ask a loved one “how are you” and they reply “fine.” Well, it’s not that that is a lie; it just isn’t the whole truth. Ask more questions this week to get to the real answers. The challenge is this is about being inquisitive not interrogating.

Sagittarius

Page of Cups – When was the last time you played for just the joy of playing? Take time this week to take your inner child out to have some fun, the sillier and joyful, the better. Trampoline? Water balloons? Finger paint? Sidewalk chalk? Crayons?

Capricorn

*Tower – You may not have much control over this week’s events, but you can prepare for the worst and hope for the best. The Muse of Deconstruction comes when your foundations need to be surveyed for cracks and instabilities. This systems check is perfect to do before the coming retrograde period 9/9-10/2. Think of it like hurricane preparedness – you’re not sure if it will hit your area but you are prepared for the season.

Aquarius

*Fool – The Muse of Spontaneity is asking you to come out and play. Find time this week to meander without a purpose, take walks in parks, drive with no destination in mind, let your mind wander without a goal. These goalless meanderings will bring something fresh, new, and needed to your psyche.

Pisces

*Star – Life has been full-on, and you need break in the storm. Well, this week the Muse of Hope and Healing comes with shooting stars and illuminations. She reminds you that there is hope and you have many things to be grateful for. Take time this week to talk to the stars and ask for things that you need. The universe is list

Tarotcast

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of Aug 7, 2022

August 7, 2022 Nina

The artist this week is Shadi Ghadirian @shadighadirian. Ghadirian draws from her own experience as a modern woman living within the ancient codes of Shariah law and war. She juxtaposes everyday objects humorously in her Qajar and Like Everyday series and with a more serious tone with Nil,Nil series and Miss Butterfly. Her photographs expose us to how Middle Eastern woman are often portrayed in traditional roles as well as how they are seen outside the Middle Eastern culture.

In Like Everyday Series she used her wedding gifts as props contrasting her perceived new role as housekeeper and wife with her professional life. We also see that the items she has chosen portray the stereotypes of women all over the world ie: hatchet as the shrew, or the teacup as a hostess. As a viewer we see in Ghadirian’s work the push and pull of the culture war of past and present, Eastern and Western culture, traditional women roles versus professional lives, and trying to live while at war. By playing with these contrasts Ghadirian brings us not only to the quest of Middle Eastern women’s challenge of trying to define themselves in their culture, but also has the viewer seeing our own struggles in defining who we are.

Your pondering for the week: Where have you been pulled by opposing forces? Did it help/hinder the shaping of who you are?

Solar System Highlights

The Moon starts in Capricorn – perfect to getting an energetic and focused start to the week. Then it moves into Aquarius on the 10^th – innovation and forward thinking is the focus. Then the moon is in Pisces for the weekend – spend some time near or in water. Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Virgo a great time for sharing, helpful advice and hashing out solutions. Venus (beauty and harmony) is in Cancer until Thursday – beautify your home, spend time with loved ones and focus on self-care. Then it moves into Leo where the focus switches to updating your style. Mars (action) is in Taurus, so action steps are at a saner, slower, and steadier pace. Jupiter is in Aries until October 28^th. It influences action and expansion over the summer months. And lastly, Saturn (structures) remains in Aquarius until the beginning of March 2023 – so innovating and modernizing your game is its focus.

P.S. Signs with an * it is a big week for you. Leo this is a perfect time to get an Astrological Tarot Reading for your coming year. And Aquarius it is your halfway mark for your birth year, so if you need a Planetary Reading for a check-in, now is the time.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

Three of Swords – Last week the Muse of the Subconscious was asking you to do some shadow work and find what is hidden or blocking your path. This stirred up some emotions, so this week the Muse of Wounds has come to help you in the healing process. First, she reminds you that these hurts have a source in your past. So this week self-care and healing are your focus. Secondly, she reminds you that you are a warrior/ess. You are alive and have survived these hurts. However, to truly mend you must go to the root of the wound and heal it from there.

Taurus

Six of Coins– The Muse of Mini Karma is here to remind you that what you do and say reverberates into your world strongly this week. The positive energy you give out is reciprocated; however, this exchange usually takes a winding path. You smile at someone, and another person opens a door for you. However, the challenge is this also work for negative energy.

Gemini

*Temperance – The Muse of Moderation advises to ground yourself this week and let the energy of life flow through you without resistance. By going with the flow and seeing all perspectives, you will find the middle path of ease and balance. This is not a week to rush or push through. Relax into the ebbs and flows of your life.

Cancerian

Knight of Coins – This week the Muse of Pace advises that slow and steady gets you to where you want to go. This is not the time to add more to your list but to get done what is already there.

Leo

Page of Swords – Your third energy to work with this year is the Muse of Inquiry. This Muse advises to sharpen your skill at astute questioning and deep listening this year. Many scenarios will play out in the coming months and the only way to be in on the inside scoop is to keep asking questions until you get to the core of the problem.

Virgo

Five of Cups – The Muse of Spilled Milk comes when you are focusing on the negative and not seeing the positive aspects of the situation. So yes, you will have a few emotion bumps in the road this week, but you also have some lovely spots you can engage with. Or think of it like this, what has not worked out was spoiled milk anyway and not appropriate to consume. Now is the time to find the good and leave that spoiled milk on the ground.

Libra

King of Wands – You have the clarity and confidence to tackle anything this week as long as you follow your intuition. This is not a week to second guess yourself. You got this, now go.

Scorpio

*Magician – Last week the muses asked you: What needs to be retrofitted to endure the stress and strain of your life? Do you need to eat better? Sleep more? Or is it more challenge like letting go of someone or a job that is slowly sucking your life-energy? This week’s energy gives you the boost to start conjuring these more sustainable structures.

Sagittarius

Two of Swords – The Muse of Choice has come to help you make decisions. There will be options this week that signal a fork in the road. This muse advises when choosing to not rely on your pros and cons list but more on how you would feel in each choice. This week the heart guides you better than the mind.

Capricorn

Six of Cups – The past will play heavily in the present this week. The Muse of Days Gone By shows up when the past has some hidden bounty for you in the present. Pay attention to feelings of déjà vu and artifacts of ancient times. Or you can explore attics, basements, and antique stores for treasures.

Aquarius

Page of Coins – This week you will need to put on your thinking cap and/or hone a skill or two. The Muse of the Student shows up when you need to learn something before you start in on a project. So literally or metaphorically read the instructions and assess your tools before you start to build.

Pisces

Four and King of Swords – You have two muses this week working in tandem. First the Muse of Restoration telling you to find time to unplug from the world. Then the Muse of Long-Term Planning is wanting you to use this time to think about where you want to be in 1,3 and 5 years. This week you need silence to mull over the plan to get you from here to there.

Tarotcast

Tarot and Art Forecast for Week of July 31, 2022

July 31, 2022 Nina

The artist this week is Mother Gaia. There are over 365 species of hummingbirds. They only live in the Americas and range from Alaska to Chile. Most species live in Central and South America. A group of hummingbirds is called a charm; however, they are very anti-social except when mating. The smallest is the Bee Hummingbird which lives in Cuba (see Cancerian below) and weighs about the same as ¼ teaspoon of sugar (1.9grams). They beat their wings between 10 to 80 times per second which produces the hum sound. The fastest flyer is the Anna’s Hummingbird at 61 mph (see Capricorn below). It is also the only species that does not migrate in North America.

Hummingbirds are the only vertebrate that can hover, fly backwards and upside down. Hummingbirds have the largest brain to body ration than any other bird, allowing them to have extraordinary memories. They see like bees into the UV spectrum of light, which are the colors that flowers present to show where the nectar is. They eat while awake about every 10 minutes. So, they not only sip the nectar of 1,000-2,000 flowers a day, but they also eat small insect like gnats and aphids.

See Aries for photo: This bird is not albino (can’t produce melanin) but is a rarer hummingbird that has leucism (produce melanin hence black eyes, feet, and some spots on feathers but can’t deposit other colors in their feathers).

Your pondering for the week: Hummingbirds are one of my messengers from the universe. What’s one of your messenger animals?

Solar System Highlights

The Moon starts in Virgo – great for cleaning and reducing clutter in your life. Then it moves into Libra on the 2^nd – relationships are highlighted. Then Scorpio on the Thursday centering around passion. By the weekend it is in Sagittarius – awesome for adventuring.

Mercury (communication and knowledge) is in Leo until the 4^th – great for PR but watch that you are listening as much as you are sharing. Then moves into Virgo a great time for sharing, helpful advice and hashing out solutions. Venus (beauty and harmony) is in Cancer – beautify your home, spend time with loved ones and focus on self-care. Mars (action) is in Taurus, so action steps are at a saner, slower, and steadier pace. Jupiter is in Aries until October 28^th. It influences action and expansion over the summer months. And lastly, Saturn remains in Aquarius for all of 2022 – so innovating and upping your game is its focus.

May light be on you, around you, and within you,

Nina

Aries

*Moon – This period has been treating you a bit like a yo-yo. Last two weeks were stops and starts and this week the muses advise to pull back in again. The Muse of the Subconscious is asking you to go back to your dreams and do some shadow work. There is something blocking your forward path and your dreams can help unravel it. For this week write a question down each night and see what answers or clues you find by morning.

Taurus

Display pattern -Wine throated hummingbird Knut Eiserman

Five of Swords – The Muse of Ego is here this week to help you navigate your emotions around dealing with other people’s egos. You may be right in an assortment of scenarios this week but people around you are not ready or willing to heed your warnings or advise. This is a week to pick your battles wisely and make sure your ego isn’t driving the conversation.

Gemini

Page of Cups – The Muse of Play is here to help you loosen up. You are too much in your head and need to let your intuitive creativity out to play. The challenge with this energy is to make sure your play is not goal oriented. This headspace is more about curiosity, discovery, and wonder.

Cancerian

King of Wands – The Muse of Superpowers wants you to find yours or if known then hone. She asks you what are your top three superpowers? Known or not they will be called upon this week. The beauty of that is this week’s challenges are not a struggle. You have “the power”. (Yes, that is a He-Man reference)

Leo

Most colorful – Rufous Hummingbird Scott Bechtel

*Death – Your second energy to work with this year is the Muse of Organic Change. This Muse advises you to focus on areas that you want to change in your life. Then she asks two questions: 1) What holds you back or that you need to get rid of, so you can have more physical resources to put towards new growth? 2) What seeds would you like to plant for coming year? The challenge with the later is to properly plant your seeds in groups that work together. And planting seasonally so that they occur at the correct time. Start this month planning for each season. Remember this organic change is a yearlong process, so don’t try to push things faster than what can naturally happen.

Virgo

Three of Swords – The Muse of Heartbreak is here to help you make an emotional breakthrough. She does not come to herald sorrow but comes to heal deep wounds. The challenge is when you are emotional triggered to not relive the trauma but see it as a wound that still needs tending to. Self-care, self-parenting, and self-compassion are your tools this week.

Libra

Four of Cups – Last week the Muse of Clean Slates and New Adventure wanted you to play around with a new avenue, study, or project – to be out in the world. This week the Muse of Introspection has you change your focus from outward to inward. This is a great week to rework, experiment, and ponder. The challenge with this muse is she also requires for you to spend a fourth of your time in the world, for it has some of the solutions and information you will need. So, divvy your time with ¾ inward and ¼ outward activities.

Scorpio

Hummingbirds — Largest hummingbird Patagona gigas

*Tower – The Muse of Revelation would like you to focus on the cracks in your foundations. What needs to be retrofitted to endure the stress and strain of your life? Do you need to eat better? Sleep more? Or is it more challenge like letting go of someone or a job that is slowly sucking your life-energy? Now is time for a change before outer circumstances do it for you.

Sagittarius

Two of Coins – The Muse of Juggling comes when you need to either practice balancing or when you are focusing on too much. This muse advises breaking down your tasks and doing them one or two at a time. This is not a week to multi-task, for you will most likely drop the ball or not carry out the task at hand with your typical diligence.

Capricorn

*Devil– The Muse of Maybe tried to help with the unpredictable energy of last week. She asked you to be more flexible in your planning. This week the Muse of Distraction requires the opposite skill set. This week you need to focus and stick with plans unless your intuition tells you to run for the hills. Think of this energy like bees. One bee you can ignore or dodge and keep working, but a swarm you need to go back inside.

Aquarius

Two of Cups – The Muse of Love comes when you need to bond with a loved one. The task is to knowing you and your partner/pet/chosen family’s love language. They are words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts and physical touch. Find out what makes you all tick and then take action.

Pisces

*Emperor – The Muse of Building is here to help you expand your empire. She wants you to take action steps that will solidify your dreams and aspirations. This can look as simple as working on a planned project, crossing off things on your to-do lists, or doing improvements to your home. Or as complex as expanding your business or skill sets, investing in your future with property or in the stock market.

Solar Systems Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

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Solar Systems Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Share this:

Like this:

Solar Systems Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Share this:

Like this:

Solar Systems Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Share this:

Like this:

Solar System Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Share this:

Like this:

Solar System Highlights

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancerian