The illustrations above are by the artist Dorothy P. Lathrop. She was born in Albany New York, and was a prolific illustrator from 1919 to 1967. She was an animal activist and vegetarian, and you can see her love of animals in the details of them in her illustrations. Many of her models were from her and her sister’s menagerie of animals that lived with them throughout their lives. Interestingly, I have these hanging on my wall for the past 20 years and until doing research on her did not know what artist had illustrated the above pieces.

We define illustration as a decoration, interpretation or visual explanation of a text, concept or process, designed for integration in published media, such as posters, flyers, magazines, books, teaching materials, animations, video games and films. Sadly illustration and the people who make them are not consider fine art. I beg to differ. Illustrations are usually the first art forms we encounter as children. They illuminate our imagination, and help us visualize and learn the constructs of language. Though fine art can move us with emotion, and, if we have enough art history, ignite our intellect . Illustration as an art form is better defined by the word’s original meaning in Middle English – illumination; spiritual or intellectual enlightenment. Illustration gives our stories and minds wings.

P.S. Remember, signs with * it’s a big week for you. I have a new reading the Planetary Spread for you all to check out.

Aries – King of Swords – The King of Swords is the decision maker. This week will be filled with choices and big decisions. The best way to get through this week is to be methodical in your thinking.   If you are feeling overwhelmed step back and strategize with someone you trust.

Taurus – Six of Pentacles -. The Six of Pentacles is the mini karma card. Remember that ever thing you do has an effect. The more positive or negative you put in the world the more positive or negative you receive. The challenge is to realize that not all karma flows directly or timely. Goodwill and faith are the keys this week.

Gemini – Queen of Swords – The Queen of Swords wants you combine your keen mind, communication skills and ability to learn from other sources. You will need a sharp and open mind to find solutions. The challenge is to make sure you take time out to integrate this new knowledge, so you can find solutions that please the whole as well as the individual.

Cancer – Three of Pentacles – The Three of Pentacles says that three heads are better than one. This week collaboration is the key to unlocking the next steps on your project. To obtain mastery one must be open to learn from the masters. The only challenge is to look outside your typical teachers and gurus.

Leo – Page of Swords – Last week, The Hangman lesson’s about changing your perspective while things are on hold continues this week with the Page of Swords. This card challenges you to find out more information. This is not a decision-making week. You need more information to gain a holistic perspective.

Virgo – Knight of Swords – Slow down, figuratively and literally. The Knight of Swords tells you not to rush into any decisions or actions this week. Also, be very careful as you physical go through the world. This card can foretell sprained ankles and banged toes.

*Libra – Fool – Last week, the Emperor challenged you to make the world a better place to live and work. This week the Fool would like you to enjoy the world you created. The Fool challenges you to live in the moment. Mindfulness isn’t difficult, we just need to remember to do it ~Sharon Salzberg.

Scorpio – Page of Pentacles – This is your second Page so a quick look into Pages. They come into our lives when we need fresh perspectives. Last week the Page of Cups challenges you to keep your heart open to receive love in all its forms. This week the Page of Pentacles changes the focus to what you know, or don’t. The Page of Pentacles is the student of life. Your challenge is to increase your knowledge by reading or learning a new skill.

Sagittarius – Three of Swords – The Three of Swords challenges you to work on matters of the heart. There are three thoughts that are messing with how you deal with your emotions, and then how those ignored or misused emotions effect others. These thoughts are usually old mental habits put there by others. Your challenge is to extract those negative thoughts before they hurt someone else. Only you have the power to stop the cycle of hurt, by stop hurting yourself first.

*Capricorn – Magician – Last week, the Empress challenged you to practice your new emotional intelligence and see how they feel.  Your challenge is to change your emotional focus again, from analyzing and practicing, to the Magician, creation through experimentation. The Magician points one hand up and draws down the power of the collective conscience and creates things in the material world. This in its simplest form can look like cooking a new dish to express your emotions and in its more complex form can look like art, music, or poetry that can move you and others to feel and examine emotions.

*Aquarius – Justice – Last week, the Magician challenged you to not shy away from your mistakes – learn from them and then make something amazing. Justice wants you to continue experimenting, but the lesson is to have faith.  Though the results will not show up this week, they will come in time. Your challenge is to stay on course  even though it feels like you have nothing to show for it.

Pisces – Ten of Wands – The Ten of Wands’ lessons are about the delicate balance of responsibility and doing too much. This card foretells that there is too much on your plate. The challenge is to realize that multitasking isn’t going to cut it this week . The best way to handle your pile of work is to lay everything down. Pick one project/task. Do it to completion or at least to a responsible stopping point. Then pick up the next responsibility/task and focus on that. Repeat until your pile is gone.

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

Nina