18. The Moon

The Moon can be seen as the rising up of the unconscious, the world of dreams where we receive messages that are lost in static and we can see where we want to go but cannot see the path ahead.  A time on the journey when many turn back for fear of facing their demons in the dark.  Sometimes the illusion feels more comfortable and the enormous change feels unbearable.  But we have come so far.  So, stop a moment, breathe, listen deeply and sink into the deep knowing of the High Priestess we met so long ago.

Key Words: Threshold into higher consciousness/ Psychic awakening/ Madness or illumination/ Substance abuse/ Depression

Julian Lang              The Moon

“The Moon has been a part of my life for many moons, and for us all. It was not a surprise to select this card. I have written about the Moon.  Recently I created an animation featuring the moon and each year I track the moon to determine certain auspicious times. The moon has been my personal teacher and companion since 1980.

I employed a simple and direct process with this painting. I let the image gel as I carried on with my day-to-day duties. I read about and thought about the moon as an image of the tarot. I talked with others about the differences and likenesses between the indigenous view of the moon and the western view. And then, the "bell" went off: Time to paint!

I first roughly sketched out a composition. Then I turned off all contact with the outside world and began painting. The image morphed and simplified into what I believe are the basic elements of this card: inspiration, sleep, the path leading to the mountain, the rising spirit, the sacred pool, the night, and the Moon itself. The image revealed itself to me and forced me to change the composition occasionally until I saw its interconnectedness and balance.”

Learn more about Julian on his website http://web.me.com/katimiin/Sandvox/