Introduction to Artistic
Spellcraft
By Anne Marie Garrison
You can use art to enhance your spellcraft. Just follow these eight simple rules.
Rule One - Be clear about your intentions. Know what you are asking the universe to help with and why. Meditate and divinate seceral times to make sure you are doing the right thing. As the old saying goes: "Be carefule what you ask for, you might get it." Be specific in your requests, such as: "I will soon have reliable, affordable transportation to work everyday." But do not tell the universe how to solve your problems ("I won't accept anything but a new red sports car"). If you already know how to solve all your problems then don't ask the gods for help.
Rule Two - Form a very clear and affirmative statement of intent. For example: "I, Moon Dragon, child of the earth, child of the universe, am part of the divine, and it is part of me. Therefore, in the name of Morrigan (or other god or goddess), I call into my life the perfect doowangle (or other object of desire). May it (or he or she) be beautiful, bold, and true (or other qualities of your choosing). As above, so below. So mote it be!"
Rule Three - Visualize your spell coming true. See yourself enjoying the benefits of having your needs fulfilled. DOn't fret. KNow that it is not only possible, and with proper planning it will happen.
Rule Four - Plan properly. Make a list of things you will do to help your intent. Set goals and a schedule. Pick the most advantageous time to do your spell by checking with an astrologer or diviner. Gather art supplies and other ritual implements. Take some time to research visual symbols that can be put into a physical spell. Obvious ones include hearts for love, dollar signs for prosperity, Suns for happiness, pentacles for protection. Don't worry about how much or how little artistic talent you have. This is just for you! Nobody has to see it unless you want them to. The idea is to lose yourself in the creative flow. Visual language (not verbal) is the most direct way to access the magical subconscious mind.
Rule Five - Remember the rule: "As it harm none." Be sure that your spell will not harm or interfere in the free will of others. Avoid spells using any names other than your own. It is okay to ask for love in your life, but it is not proper to demand that "John" or "Sue" fall madly in lust with you. Similarly, if you feel that someone has wronged you somehow, ask the universe for justice or resolution and leave it up to the gods to decide the best way to take care of the matter. Spells should not be undertaken for purposes of revenge or power over someone. What you send out returns to you threefold.
Rule Six - Here's the fun part: Do the art-spell working. Start with a self-[urification, cast a circle, and light some appropriately colored candles or incense. Put on some tranquil music. Invite the spirit helpers of your choice to join you. Choose an appropriate affirmation. SPeak it clearly and loudly. Chanting will also work. Draw, color, paint, or collage your spell-page while concentrating on your symbols and colors. White your affirmation, and feel free to embellish your art with pasted photos, beads, glitter, fabric, small plastic toys. Have fun. Let your inner child come out. When finished, thank your invited guests and close the circle.
Rule Seven - Hang Your magical art somewhere special where you can look at it and meditate on it for a few minutes each day. Repeat your affirmation out loud, visualizing your wish coming true. Periodically add to the artwork if you desire. Do not take it down until your goal is achieved, no matter how long it takes.
Rule Eight - When finished with the art, thank the gods. If you are doing this spell to help a friend, you can frame it and present it as a gift. Otherwise, you can ritually burn, bury, or cast away the remnants of yoru spell. If you magically disempower your art, it can be pasted into a scarapbook. THat's all there is to it!
Note: Parents, please do these rituals with your kids. Kids love to color and it is an easy way to "get inside" their heads and really communicate with them. Feel free to modify the rituals to make them appropriate for the age and ability of your children.
Here are some commonly held ideas about various colors to get you started. Use what works best for your needs.