Meet COSMOS Artist, Caroline Jamhour

Meet Caroline Jamhour, one of the many talented artists featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! Caroline is a self-taught artist from Curitiba, Brazil. Her favorite themes to work with are fairy tales, fantastic creatures, nature, magic, stars, dreams, mythology and symbolism. To see more of Caroline’s work take a look at her website (carolinejamhour.com) and blog (fadamariposa.tumblr.com) and be sure to come out and see the Cetus piece that she made for the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Caroline illustrated a piece for the constellation Cetus. In the deck, it represents the Five Card, and is a Water Element.

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Cetus
Underlying Emotional Issue - Self-Doubt - Fear

“Here be monsters.”

Maps from ancient times depict gargantuan sea monsters in the depths of uncharted waters. The concept of large underwater creatures has been around since Mesopotamian times, but in Greek mythology the monster Cetus was one of the most formidable. Cetus was sent by Poseidon to devour Andromeda as retribution against Andromeda’s mother, Cassiopeia.

It is easy to imagine what terrible things might be lurking within dark waters. Those who sail into uncharted territory often face the possibility that self-doubt, fear, or failure may surface along the journey, in addition to the beasts of the deep. It is up to the captain of the ship to rally their crew to navigate through rough seas and to prepare them for any potential hardships that may arise. Exploration comes with its fair share of adventure, discovery, and peril.

In a reading, this card may indicate that something terrible is lurking under the surface of a person’s calm exterior. One may be dealing with an underlying emotional issue that may need to surface.

If the card is reversed, it asks that the person probing for answers should be careful. There may be something in the deep worth its scary reputation. If a person does decide to try to fish for answers, they should be prepared for whatever may rise from the depths!

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thanks for all your support!

Light Grey Game Night: Cosmos

The COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck is launching soon, and that has us here at Light Grey Art Lab looking to the heavens... in search of games to play! If you're feeling spaced out and alien in your daily interactions, it must be time for another Light Grey Game Night! So mark your calendar for Thursday, October 22nd from 6:30 - 9:30 pm! 

As you might remember, we're attaching a theme to each night to help people narrow down what games they might want to bring (although you're still welcome to bring whatever you'd like!). This week's theme is Cosmos!

Flex your alien might and forge fragile alliances in Cosmic Encounters, show off your ace pilot skills in the Star Wars: X-Wing Miniatures Game, build your cosmic empire in Eminent Domain, or defend the homeland from space invaders in XCOM: The Board Game, among plenty of others! If you have a favorite boardgame, bring it!

So grab your friends, family or favorite stack of board games, and come play with us! RSVP via our Facebook event, and feel free to share! The more the merrier!

Meet COSMOS Artist, A. Sparrow

Meet A. Sparrow, one of the many artists that are a part of our upcoming Cosmos show! A wide selection of Sparrow’s work involves GIF illustration. Their illustrations incorporate an elegant painterly style with subtle animated elements thrown in. If you want to see more work take a look at Sparrow’s website, ofsparrows.tumblr.com, and don’t forget to check out the Aries piece in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Sparrow illustrated a piece for the constellation Aries. In the deck, it represents the Magician Card, and is a Fire Element.

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 Aries
Leadership - Impulse - Innovation - Opportunity

As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries embodies the qualities of a leader. They are the first to volunteer, the first to head into battle, and the first to finish what they’ve started. They’re aggressive, daring, and courageous by nature. Aries personalities are often pioneers in the fields of innovation. Inclined to answer any challenge, Aries is naturally bold and direct, finding ways to accomplish things in the quickest, most efficient means possible. They know what they want and aren’t afraid to ask for it.

As a cardinal fire sign, Aries is impulsive, opportunistic, and spontaneous. Aries’ enthusiasm and a get-it-done attitude are all part of the sign’s fiery nature. They are spirited and independent and often seek out new personal challenges wherever they are.

In a reading, Aries symbolizes a quick start to new projects. A person may find it particularly easy to roll up their sleeves and dig into a new big endeavor. As the sign of leadership, Aries often indicates that one may be spearheading an upcoming project or find one’s self facilitating a group effort.

Reversed, Aries’ independence may lead to a bit of friction in codependent relationships or in situations that require joint decision-making. As an incredibly self-reliant sign, Aries tends to act quickly, sometimes without thinking of how their actions affect those around them. Aries is also prone to binging on new interests and lusting after new people, projects, and material objects. When this card appears reversed one may have a strong desire to spend time, resources, and money on what may turn out to be short-lived interests.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thank you for your support!

BOWER BIRD- Artists Announced!

We are pleased to announce the artists that have been selected to participate in the upcoming BOWER BIRD Exhibition.  Each artist will be created limited edition postcard sets inspired by their personal collections, curated objects, and unique pairings! We look forward to showcasing the new artwork, postcard designs, and previews as we lead up to the exhibition, opening December 4th from 7-10pm.

Congratulations to all of the BOWER Bird Artists: 

Adam Pritchett, Alice Yang, Alison George, Ally Hodges, Alyssa Nassner, Angela Taguiang, Anika Starmer, Anine Bösenberg, Annejulie Painchaud, Anoosha Syed, Bryan Paul Patterson, Cai Vail, Camille Chew, Charlotte Gomez, Chelsea Kenna, Chris Hajny, Claire Hummel, Corinne Reid, Cornelia Li, Courtney Godbey, Crystal Floyd, Dana Wulfekotte, Dominique pere, Dream Chen, Elizabeth Goodspeed, Emily Hummel, Emmeline Pidgen, Emory Allen, Francesca Buchko, Hannah Christianson, Hannah Culbert, Hannah Lee Stockdale, Isuri Merenchi Hewage, Jake Giddens, Janelle Gramling, Jay Crosby, Jenny Bookler, Jessica TC Lee, John Bivens, Jon Marchione, Julie Campbell, Karina Rehrbehn, Karolina Benz, Kate Lyaskovskaya, Kate MacDonald, Kate Sheridan, Kate Walsh, Katherine Tsai, Katlyn Griffin, Katrina Castillo, Kelly and Nichole Matthews, Kevin Jay Stanton, Kevin VQ Dam, Kim Peterson, Kora C., La Scarlatte (Pauline Teunissen), Lindsay Nohl, Lisa Manuzak, Lissa Treiman, Liz Mytinger, Lydia Guadagnoli, Lynsey Erin, Marisa Seguin, Marlowe Dobbe, Mary Sanche, Matt Hayton, Megan Karson, Meghan Stratman, Michael Marsicano, Monica Esquivel, Nicole Xu, Niky Motekallem, Noël Clark, Oliver Hine, Philippe Poirier, Pierre Kleinhouse, Rachel Suggs, Rebecca Mock, Rory Phillips, Sage Howard, Sara Barnes, Shawn Pedralba, Soeun Lee, Tara O'Connor, Taryn Gee, Trisha Previte, Tyler Parker, Vanessa Port, Vero Navarro, and Yinfan Huang

Artist Interview with Zoe Keller

Meet Zoe Keller. Zoe is a freelance illustrator known for her realistic, intricate, and nature-inspired illustrations. Zoe is originally from Upstate, New York, attended school at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore, and is now living and working in Portland, OR. In 2015, we have had the opportunity to work with Zoe on multiple occasions including the Guts exhibition, the upcoming COSMOS exhibition and tarot deck, and traveled together during the Light Grey Art Camp to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park! 

It is always a pleasure to work with Zoe, and we have the honor of presenting some of her work and process in the interview below. You can read about her inspirations, workspace, artistic practice, and thoughts on making!. You can also look at all of Zoe's work on her website, blog and Instagram. Be sure to also keep an eye out for her work in the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck later this month too! 

Hey Zoe! Could you tell us a little about your workspace? Any studio necessities, rituals, collections or best practices?

Over the past three years I’ve been moving every few months and have carved out studio space from whatever was at hand. Usually I had a desk, but there were definitely periods of holding a drawing board in my lap on the floor. I just moved to Portland, OR, a couple of months ago, with the plan of staying put for at least a year and putting down some tentative roots, so I’m also being more intentional with my studio space than I have been in a long time. I have a big desk that’s all mine, and my reference books (for drawing), maps (to look at while I listen to the news) and collection of rocks and feathers and flotsam and jetsam (for general nerdery) are all close at hand. My studio space is in my bedroom, though, I would love to move my work space out of my living space soon! 

Would you mind sharing a bit of your process with us- I’m curious how you work from initial ideas to these incredibly detailed illustrations? What research goes into your work?

Research is a big part of my process. I like having some constraints when I go into a drawing; or example, I might only draw animals and plants that are endangered in the state of Oregon or stick to drawing flowers that grow on this one tract of prairie in the north-eastern corner of the state. These boundaries make a blank page more approachable, and also mean that I can step away from a finished drawing with a deeper understanding of the natural world, which is really the biggest reward. I go from research to small sketches to light under-drawings, then work from top left to bottom right finishing the drawing, and finally go back and adjust lights and darks across the whole thing.

Your work is clearly inspired by the natural world, what brought about that fascination? What keeps that fascination going?

I have a lot of memories of being outside with my parents, looking at salamanders, frog eggs, and bugs. That fascination never went away. I also think that this moment in time - as our planet faces a man-made mass extinction - is an especially important one to explore how incredible the natural world is. I hope that my work can do a little to make people realize how fantastically, fragilely diverse the life on our planet is. 

For the Cosmos Exhibition you were given the Moon. Can you give us some insight as to how you approached this subject? 

I wanted to know how, if at all, the moon impacted other species. Through some Googling I found a couple of articles linking the reproductive habits of particular amphibians to the full moon. How cool is that? 

In your career, do you ever run into major obstacles? (Artist's block, lull in clients, bad work / life balance) Do you have tricks for overcoming any of these things?

All the time! As a pretty anxiety-riddled, pessimistic person, I definitely don’t have a temperament that naturally lends itself to this constant-leap-of-faith, feast-or-famine sort of working life. There were lots of times over the past few years when I questioned whether or not all the stress and instability was worth it. The answer just kept being yes. Having friends who know how to be supportive because they are doing the same sort of thing has been super important, and learning to take breaks and recharge has also helped. Also, shout-out to my family for being the best and nerding out about everything that I do. 

Do you have any sources of inspiration that are your go-to’s? Books? Online Sources? Exploring outside?

Nothing matches being outside. When we were living in Michigan and working on Intricacies, my friend Christina Mrozik and I liked to joke that the little field in front of our studio had just as much to tell us as the whole of the internet. Field guides are important too; I have a growing collection. 

Do you have advice for other young illustrators?

I don’t really feel like I should be giving other illustrators advice yet! But if I could go back and give myself advice, I would tell myself to be more fearless about tackling big, unmanageable projects. They have the biggest pay-off. 

What is your idea of a “dream project”? How would you want that work to be displayed? How would it challenge you as an artist?

I day dream a bunch about working directly with scientists botanists, entomologists, ornithologists…pretty much any “-ologist” working with the natural world. I got my first taste of this as a resident artist at the Hurricane Island Foundation off the coast of Maine. There, I got to work with science educators on a series of illustrations that can be used in their programs with middle and high school students - It was so incredible! They could explain natural relationships that would take me hours or days of field-guide-reading to figure out on my own, and also made connections and raised questions that I would never have thought of. Making work that is easily reproducible is really important to me - so making work that ultimately ends up as zines, books and posters is what I usually aim for. 

What projects do you have in the works?

I’m busy with a big freelance project I can’t talk about quite yet! I’m also getting ready for a show that Christina Mrozik and I are having at Antler Gallery in Portland in late November, and for the release of a coloring book called Color the Natural World that I worked on with Portland’s Timber Press! I also have a big personal project about Oregon birds that I’m preparing to dig into at the beginning of next year.  

Thanks so much, Zoe!

Again, be sure to check out her work here on her website and don't miss her piece in the upcoming COSMOS exhibition!

Podcast: The Nature of Creativity

Download the MP3, stream directly on Stitcher, or subscribe via iTunes!

The Nature of Creativity
Length: 00:57:46
Synopsis: The call-for-art just wrapped for the upcoming exhibition Bower Bird, but we've still got nature on the brain and it has us wondering what other parallels we could draw between the creative lifestyle and the animal kingdom? Lindsay, Chris, Jenny, and special guest Francesca talk about the similarities between making art and the habits exhibited by animals all around the globe, and talk about what animals might best represent our creative habits (spoiler: it's not very flattering). 

Show Notes:
COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck Pre-Order
Light Grey Game Night

Meet COSMOS Artist, Catherine Ho

Meet Catherine Ho, one of the many talented artists featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! She’s an illustrator and surface designer that works out of Baltimore, and does incredibly detailed and stylized work in both: black & white, and full color! To find more of her work you can look at her website, www.cat-ho.com and blog, catvho.tumblr.com or find her on Instagram @catvho, and dont miss out on seeing her Eridanus piece that she made for the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Catherine illustrated a piece for the constellation Eridanus. In the deck, it represents the Tower Card, and is an Air Element.

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Eridanus
A Twist of Fate - At the Mercy of a Greater Power

Eridanus is the Latin name for Italy’s Po River, a winding river prone to tumultuous flooding that can wrench trees loose from the riverbank. The association between the river and the constellation comes from the twisting and tortuous path the stars trace in the sky. Eridanus floods from the waters poured by Aquarius, the water bearer. This card depicts an aggressively twisting Arowana river fish, symbolizing the chaotic nature of the river.

When Eridanus appears, life may be at the mercy of the twists and turns of fate. Though the jostling and round-about trek may make a person feel a bit lost, one is ultimately still headed in the right direction, just as the waters of the great Eridanus flows steadily downstream. This card’s symbolism could manifest itself in an actual journey as well. Trying to think of the experience as an adventure might make traveling a bit more fun.

Reversed, someone may be up a creek without a paddle and feeling a bit out of control with the direction they are headed. A person may be unable to right one’s self until the end of this wild ride. A new assignment, a job transfer, or family matters may be the cause. A move may seem necessary, though it might not feel very convenient.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/…/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-or…

Thanks for all your support!

Meet COSMOS Artist, Andres Guzman

Meet Andres Guzman, an illustrator and designer from who graduated from Minneapolis College of Art and Design. His work features graphic shapes, iconic compositions, and bold colors! If you want to see more his work take a look at his website, andresguzman.com and blog, allmypistachios.tumblr.com or find him on Instagram @andresitoguzman, and don’t forget to check out his depiction of Leo Minor in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Andres illustrated a piece for the constellation Leo Minor. In the deck, it represents the Three card and is an Earth element.

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Leo Minor
Budding Talent - Person in Training

Known as the “Lesser Lion,” Leo Minor fits in well with its surrounding menagerie of Leo, Ursa Major, Lynx, and Cancer. Lions are powerful, confident, and ambitious animals. Leo Minor is a small constellation,  resembling a young lion training for the day when he takes charge of his own pride. When this card appears in a reading, a person may be too inexperienced at the moment to show the world all they can offer. Others may not see the promise they hold for the future quite yet, but the potential for greatness is certainly there.

This card references a budding ace, a person-in-training, or a novice with big ambitions.  It draws attention to the unique abilities that young potential will bring to the greater community in time.

Reversed, Leo Minor references the feelings of inadequacy or jealousy a person may feel when comparing themselves against a practiced individual, professional, or person that has gained notoriety for the same interests. Remember that each constellation in the sky earned its place in its own time.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thanks for all your support!

Meet COSMOS Artist, Zoe Keller

Meet Zoe Keller, an illustrator and designer who graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art. She is another artist on the roster for the upcoming Cosmos show! Currently working out of Philadelphia, she uses graphite and ink to create striking and extremely detailed images. For more examples of her work be sure to swing on over to her website, zoekeller.com and blog, compassandwheel.tumblr.com or look for her on Instagram @zoekellerart, and find her rendition of the Moon Constellation in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition that opens on October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Zoe illustrated a piece for the constellation Moon. In the deck, it represents the Seventeenth Oracle Card.

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Moon
Secrets - Mystery - Cycles

Since ancient times, the Moon has been associated with magic, intuition, mystery, and renewal. It is connected with female energy, related to feminine cycles, and linked to our emotional well-being. The moon has an ability to connect deeply with our psyche and our subconscious. As it quietly revolves around the Earth, the Moon’s presence can be seen with the swelling of the tides, changes in the weather, and its omniscient presence on clear, dark nights. It is quiet and omniscient, emitting a fascinating aura of mystery and power.

As a card, the Moon suggests that those who act behind the scenes can be extremely influential. It is a symbol for visible transition through it’s own cycles. It indicates the importance of dreams, subconscious yearnings, the celebration of curiosity, and the allure of the unknown. The Moon also promotes transition, finding comfort in the cycles of life.

Reversed, this card may indicate secrets, hidden agendas, or dirty dealings beneath the surface. Remember, all manner of creatures come out at night.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thank you for all your support!

Light Grey Iceland Residency 2016 - Artists Announced!

We are pleased to announce the three creative teams that will be joining us for the upcoming Light Grey Iceland Residency 2016!

We welcome artists from various professional backgrounds in photography, book making, concept art, illustration, publishing, game development, writing and more. All of which have come from different industries and geographical locations including the United States, Canada, Portugal, Scotland, Germany, Spain, France, and beyond. 

Throughout the program, the artists will travel around the countryside of Iceland, visiting some of the most secluded, wild, and sublime locations on earth. In the summer months, the landscape is filled with wild flowers, succulents, lichen and moss, and the nearby coast provides access to puffins sightings, sea birds, harbor seals, crabs, and whales. Our day excursions will include visits to glacial fee, boiling mud pots, hidden waterfalls, volcanoes, and ancient ruins.

Together, we set out to explore, sketch, converse, and collaborate. 

TEAM MIST: Alexandria Neonakis, Andrea Kalfas, Betsy Bauer, Ella N M Webb, Kaija Rudkiewicz, Kathleen Jennings, Jared Tuttle, Lana Crooks, Mike Yamada, Nicole Gustafsson, Silver Saaremaeel, Wendi Chen

TEAM ICE: Ana Seixas, Carrie Liao, Erin McPhee, Esther Lara, Evan Monteiro, Francesco Bongiorni, Jedd Chevrier, Kim Ku, Maria Bartholdi, Megan Nicole Dong, Simon Chetrit, Stu Livingston

TEAM BASALT: Bill Robinson, Casey Hunt, Claire Hummel, Ellis O'Conner, Hadi Jalali, Irene Koh, Jess Nicholls, Lissa Treiman, Matthew Cicanese, Nadia Enis, Tuna Bora, Ricardo Bessa, Roger Young Jr, Zoe-Zoe Sheen

Meet COSMOS Artist, Xanthe Bouma

Meet Xanthe Bouma, another one of the amazing artists features in the upcoming Cosmos show! A graduate of Maryland Institute College of Art, and now living in southern California, her work uses bold, graphic shapes and wonderful color schemes! If you want to see more her work take a look at her website, www.xanthebouma.com or find her on Instagram @xoxobouma, and don’t forget to check out her depiction on Pluto in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Xanthe illustrated a piece for the constellation Pluto. In the deck, it represents the Ninth Oracle Card.

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Pluto
Finality - Transition - Distance - Separation

Pluto signifies an end. Symbolic of both the final destination in our solar system and of the ruler of the underworld, Pluto conjures cold, dark, and mysterious images. Though he was not an evil god, Pluto was feared by the living, who were reluctant to even say his name aloud for fear he would bring them to their doom. At the end of a long journey down the river Styx, a soul was welcomed into the underworld, Pluto’s domain, for the rest of eternity.

In a reading, this card is about finality, the unknown, and transition. It may symbolize distance and separation, but not necessarily an uncomfortable version of these terms.

Reversed, the card may speak to misunderstanding, dark thoughts and the void, as well as rumors, speculation and poor reputation without justification.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thank you for your support!

Light Grey Game Night: Mystical

October is here, bringing us chilly winds with a hint of mystery and magic. If you've got the urge to dabble in something a bit more arcane then usual, it must be time for another Light Grey Game Night! So mark your calendar for Thursday, October 8th from 6:30 - 9:30 pm! 

As you might remember, we're attaching a theme to each night to help people narrow down what games they might want to bring (although you're still welcome to bring whatever you'd like!). This week's theme is Mystical!

Channel ancient energies to terraform lands in Terra Mystica, watch as werewolves turn a group of villagers against each other in One Night Ultimate Werewolf, and race to discover lucrative potions and magical concoctions in Alchemists, among plenty of others! If you have a favorite boardgame, bring it!

So grab your friends, family or favorite stack of board games, and come play with us! RSVP via our Facebook event, and feel free to share! The more the merrier!

Podcast: The Crab Zone

Download the MP3, stream directly on Stitcher, or subscribe via iTunes!

The Crab Zone
Length: 00:58:24
Synopsis: Even the most positive person can have an off day. A day where nothing goes right and everything blows up in your face. That's when you enter The Crab Zone. Everyone is a crab not and then, and that's ok. On this week's podcast, Lindsay, Jenny, and Chris talk about plans that go awry, weird vibes, and  dealing with unexpected changes. 

Show Notes:
Reading Tarot: The Major Arcana & Tarot Practice
COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck Pre-Order
Light Grey Game Night

Meet COSMOS Artist, Taryn Gee

Meet Taryn Gee, a lifestyle editorial illustrator that’s featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! She is based out of Ontario, Canada and uses fun color schemes in her illustrations! It’s been fun to work with her in this show! You should definitely check out the rest of her work on her website (taryngee.com), blog (taryntaryn.tumblr.com) or Instagram (@taryngee), and check out her depiction of Neptune in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Taryn illustrated a piece for the constellation Neptune. In the deck, it represents the Eighth Oracle Card.

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Neptune
Intuition - Foresight - Awareness

As the god of the sea, Neptune has inherited many of the “watery” qualities shared by the elemental symbol. Able to intuit the motives of others, Neptune is ruler over dreams, intuition, introspection, psychic ability, and perception. Often associated with the concept of higher awareness and the powers of keen observation, this card indicates a person who is highly empathetic and in tune with their emotions and the emotions of those around them. Neptune’s trident, with its three prongs, symbolizes harmony between the mind, body, and spirit.

People with Neptune in their reading may find it particularly easy to pick up on the subtle motives of others. This is a card of keen perception and the ability to intuit the tone of many underlying complexities within relationships and when in the act of negotiation. It represents a heightened awareness of both opportunity and danger, with an emphasis on foresight and circumspection.

Reversed, innocence may appear more blissful once the subtleties of a situation are revealed. One may find they are unable to pull away from the dangerous emotional undercurrents they encounter with their perceptive abilities.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thanks for all your support!

Meet COSMOS Artist, Philippe Poirier

Meet Philippe Poirier, another one of the talented artists being featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! Philippe is a 2D-3D artist working out of Montreal. He makes beautiful environments and playful illustrations! Be sure to check out the rest of his work on his website, philippepoirier.ca, and blog, philippepoirierart.tumblr.com, and check out his depiction of Scutum in the upcoming Cosmos exhibition, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Philippe illustrated a piece for the constellation Scutum. In the deck, it represents the Knight Card and is a Water Element.

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Scutum
Protection - Preservation - Defense

The constellation Scutum is named to commemorate King John III Sobieski’s victory in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. Scutum is in the image of a shield. The card derives its meaning from all that a shield represents: protection, preservation, and the ability to defend.

The imagery of the card depicts a small hamlet nestled against the protective shadow of a nearby mountain.

Upright, the card indicates a protective atmosphere and a safe haven. A person may find sanctuary in a place where others protect their ideals, or create a space where they can be at ease. This may be either a physical place or within a relationship or friendship where a person can feel comfortable to let down their guard.

The reversed position implies the shield is acting as a detrimental barricade. It could be a wall between a person and something beneficial, or a defensive shield raised unnecessarily.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thank you for all your support!

Meet COSMOS Artist, Phoenix Chan

Meet Phoenix Chan, an illustrator from Hong Kong, China. She is featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! A graduate from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, she uses both traditional and digital media to create whimsical works of art! For more of her work check out her website, www.phoenixchanillustration.com or blog, phoenix-chan.tumblr.com and stop by to see her version of Circinus + Crux in the upcoming Cosmos show that opens October 30th

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Phoenix illustrated a piece for the constellations Circinus + Crux. In the deck, they represent the Ten Card and are an Earth Element.

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Circinus + Crux Constellations
Perfection - Completion - Continuity

Circinus and Crux are two of the 88 modern constellations. Circinus refers to a compass, an instrument used for drawing circles and arcs. The circle is one of the most widely recognized symbols of completeness, cycles, and perfection. Crux refers to a cross, or two perpendicular lines dividing each other in half; a representation of unity and structure.

Both Circinus and Crux are among the most ancient human symbols, appearing continually in cultures around the globe, and have elements of symmetry and beauty within their form.

Upright, this card symbolizes truth and perfection, as well as the concept of completion. This may manifest itself in feelings of  purpose, appreciation, trust, and honor.

The reverse is not necessarily the opposite of this reading, but rather, this sense of completion comes with less ease.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Podcast: Pat Your Back

Download the MP3, stream directly on Stitcher, or subscribe via iTunes!

Pat Your Back
Length: 00:41:37
Synopsis: It's hard for some people to take a moment here and there to pat themselves on the back for a job well done. On this week's podcast, Lindsay, Chris, and Jenny talk about the ability to surprise yourself, the importance of perspective, and finding opportunities to give yourself some credit. 

Show Notes:
The 9-to-5 Workday as Liberation - The Atlantic
COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck Pre-Order
Light Grey Game Night

Meet COSMOS Artist, Nicole Gustafsson

Meet Nicole Gustafsson, one of many great artists featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! Nicole is an illustrator working out of the Pacific Northwest, and has a specialty in traditional media paintings. Her work features inviting color schemes and various themes ranging from woodland scenes to pop culture references! Definitely make sure to check out her website, nimasprout.com, and blog, nimasprout.tumblr.com, and keep an eye out for her Horologium piece that’s featured in the upcoming Cosmos show, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Nicole illustrated a piece for the constellation Horologium. In the deck, it represents the Eight Card and is an Earth Element.

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Horologium
Time Passing - Milestones - Progression

Horologium, the “hour teller,” is a faint celestial body in the southern sky, home to a clockwise spinning galaxy. This astral body was discovered by Abbé Nicolas Louis de Lacaille in 1752 during an expedition to the Cape of Good Hope.

Hands of a clock circle continuously. Time is rhythmic and unbiased towards the cycle of life. This card depicts Horologium as a celestial clock, garlanded in the flora of the Cape of Good Hope. A specific moment captured in time, while being very much about the nature of change.

When this card appears in a reading, it references the passing of time and all that entails. It is a card of age, of milestones, of past, present, and future. Though human life is punctuated with meaningful moments, this card reflects our relationship with time itself. The long hours, the spontaneous moments, the seconds that pass as we anticipate something new. It is a reminder to take notice of life in this moment, as much as a reminder to plan and to reflect.

A reverse Horologium card can reference the fear of life passing too fast. There is a sense of urgency to “make the most of it” before it is too late.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thanks so much for all your support!

Meet COSMOS Artist, Liz Parlett

Meet Liz Parlett, one of the awesome artists featured in the upcoming Cosmos show! A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, and now an artist working out of Northern Virginia, their work focuses on character design and concept art! Be sure to check out Liz’s website, lizparlettdraws.tumblr.com, for more work, and be sure to take a peek at the Chamaeleon piece that’s in the upcoming Cosmos show, opening October 30th!

For the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck, Liz illustrated a piece for the constellation Chamaeleon. In the deck, it represents the Knight Card and is a Fire Element.

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Chamaeleon
Adaptability - Adjustment - Camouflage

Chameleon is one of the smallest constellations in the sky. Chameleons have evolved into resourceful, perceptive, and versatile creatures. They are known for their camouflage abilities; they can change color to match a variety of surroundings, including an exceptional array of colors and patterns.

Interestingly, chameleons also rely heavily on vision to survive. Their eyes can rotate independently, allowing them to see 360 degrees at once. Upright, this card references a combination of the chameleon’s keen observational skills with their adaptability. This card is about observing one’s surroundings, watching the actions of others, adjusting one’s stance, and adapting instantly to each new challenge. Adaptability is incredibly important in terms of understanding how to stay safe and how to claim new opportunities. This card does not assume that a person always feels confident in their ability to adapt, nor does it assume the person will be instantly skilled at their new role. The phrase “fake it til' you make it” may be a fitting mantra for the time being.

Reversed, this card indicates a traitor may be hidden in the ranks. A person may be willing to blend in just to gain an advantageous piece of information or lying in wait to catch another in a compromising situation. In another reading, the Chameleon card reversed may also mean that a person is just having a difficult adapting to new situations. Slow adjustments often come with plenty of frustration and insecurity. Though the transition may not be easy, it may provide an opportunity to grow and expand one’s current abilities within the constraints of a new challenge.

You can find out more information about this project on the Light Grey Website and pre-order the Tarot & Oracle Deck on the Light Grey Shop here:

http://shop.lightgreyartlab.com/product/pre-order-cosmos-tarot-oracle-deck

Thanks so much for all your support!

Artist Interview with Soljee Lee

Meet Soljee Lee. Soljee was born in South Korea, partially raised in the States, and currently living in Utah. She is an illustrator, graphic designer, and recent graduate from the Brigham Young University. Her work is recognized for its playful textures, flat colors, and clean design. She is also one of the contributing artists for the upcoming COSMOS Exhibition, and we are thrilled to present her new work, thoughts on illustration, and personal interests!

You can find more of Soljee Lee's work on her website and follow her tumblr or instagram here. You can also see Soljee's work in the COSMOS Tarot & Oracle Deck (coming October 2015).

Hi Soljee. What does your workspace look like? what kind of things do you like to be surrounded by for inspiration? 

My workspace is a plain old desk, just wide enough to place everything and anything I 'might' use in front of me- different media, books, pictures. . . I get the thrill out of making impromptu choices when illustrating!

Your work is very colorful and textural. Could you talk a bit about your common themes and sources of inspiration?

There are certainly themes that I am drawn such as death, obsessions, and twisted things -  I tend to draw on darker themes. I like to muse on these in a delightful and lighthearted ways. I have definitely been influenced by a mix of my mom's Christian views and my dad's Buddhist or Indian/Tibetan yoga views. As weird as it might sound, I find humor in  miserable or ironic life encounters. I wonder if such perspective has unconsciously contributed into my work with colorful palette and texture. 

It looks like you use a broad range of traditional media for your illustrations. What are your essential materials? 

I am most comfortable with graphite- It suits my controlling  nature. I often return to using color pencils, so I guess that's my next favorite medium. I love the expressive nature of watercolor and ink, and I also enjoy collage. I just love experimenting with different ways to create an image. I am very aware that I need to achieve some consistency throughout my body of work, and I am still a long way from mastering it.

Preview of Mercury for the COSMOS Exhibition and Tarot & Oracle Deck

We are excited to see your piece in our Cosmos exhibition! could you tell us a bit about your approach to the piece you made?

My card was the the planet Mercury, and I read as much as I could to understand his symbolic roles, in what I thought to be conflicting. For example, how can he be a guide to lost souls and a liar at the same time? I found out that he's a deceptive god because he provides a partial truth. Mercury's words can be a understood as a lie or insight depending on one's ignorance/intelligence. It's our job to complete the truth or the lie. I wanted to illustrate this idea by drawing tongues and ribbons. All these thoughts worked into my final piece on Mercury.

You have a clear interest in fashion illustration. How does your own sense of style relate to your art, and vice versa?

You'll be surprised to know that I wear pretty boring clothes. Unlike my work, my personal style is pretty simple, mostly in plain grey, navy, and black. I rarely wear anything patterned or printed or brightly colored. I try to look decent all the time, but not enough to make any sort of fashion statement. Boring, right?

What is your favorite thing about fashion illustration? Could you talk a bit about the space where illustration and fashion meet, and what draws you to make the art that you do?

Fashion is a form of design that combines every type of artistic challenge I enjoy! With fashion illustration, an illustrator delivers this complicated design into a simple 2D drawing through his/her eye conceptually and visually. Just like other types of illustrations, a really successful fashion illustration conveys or even strengthens the idea or the mood of the original design in spite of eliminating out so much detail. It makes me more excited about figuring out interesting combinations of lines, shapes and colors. 

What would be your dream project?  

I would love to create illustrations for a beautifully bound book on mythology. Creating illustrations for a fashion brand would be another dream project, too.

What have you been working on lately? 

Now that I graduated I have been focusing on wrapping up my graphic design portfolio for job hunting. After that, I hope to create some new illustrations out of my little sketchbook drawings. I have been trying to marry what I do with my work stuff and what I do in my sketchbook. It's a tricky business to figure out when you like too many things.

Thanks, Soljee!

Again, you can see more of Soljee's work on her website or keep an eye out for her piece in the upcoming COSMOS Exhibition.