My Journey Through Art, Spirituality, and Food
I find identity to be a bit of an enigma.
Often in the west we identify as our professions. “I’m a doctor, a banker, a teacher.”
As a multi-passionate creative it seems like such a foreign concept to me to have a singular identity.
As a witch, chef, and artist, I see the world through a unique lens. Growing up in the enchanting landscapes of New England and later soaking up the sunshine on California's shores, I've crafted a life that centers around self-discovery, and focuses heavily on rich elements of living. I wonder if this is at all shaped by my astrological chart, especially the influence of Venus sitting on my rising sign. Or it is a product of growing up outside of New York City with creative parents.
Perhaps it's a blend of both, a harmonious convergence of celestial and earthly influences.
These special connections have filled me with a deep appreciation for beauty, sensuality, and the intricate threads that weave us all together.
My Background
Raised in the historically rich and mystical region of Coastal New England, I was enveloped by the whispers of history and the vibrant energy of changing seasons.
I grew up right down the street from the beach where the crisp, salt-tinged air surrounded me as I rollerbladed to the marina.
I grew up playing Harry Potter with my friends. The autumn leaves crunching beneath my boots as I ran through the woods on pretend broomsticks. Walking through graveyards dating back to the 1700s. Making potions with every product in our bathrooms. And getting spooked by hearing bumps in the night at my friend’s historical homes
During the Revolutionary War the British landed on the shores of my town and burned a path leading from the sound to the town center. And we go on historical walking field trips filled with stories like this about the area.
This enchanting environment nurtured a profound connection to the Earth and its cycles, forming the basis for my spiritual practices and culinary adventures. History and art infused all aspects of my life growing up. These childhood adventures, steeped in history and imagination, laid the foundation for my magical worldview.
Art Education: A Love for Impressionism and Surrealism
I count myself really lucky to have parents who valued art. They took me to MoMa and The Met. They filled our house with Southern Folk Art. My dad taught Art in the Classroom, which is exactly what it sounds like. The parents usually selected a specific work of art and taught us about it.
This early exposure to diverse artistic expressions sparked a lifelong passion.
I am so grateful that my creativity was always supported. Art has always served as a sanctuary for my soul, a space where I can articulate my deepest thoughts and emotions. My formal education in the arts opened my eyes to new techniques and styles, yet Impressionism and Surrealism have always truly captivated my heart.
Impressionism, with its emphasis on light, color, and movement, parallels my cooking approach—capturing the fleeting beauty of a moment and transforming it into something lasting. The dreamlike essence of Surrealism resonates with my spiritual journey, inviting exploration into the realms of the subconscious and the unseen.
Through these art forms, I learned to see the world not just as it is, but as it could be. To always be seeking a deeper meaning.
The impact of my arts education was profound.
Creativity: It echoes through all areas of my life. It fosters innovative thinking and problem-solving. It allows me to be fluid.
Expression: Offers a channel for emotions and ideas. The importance of having and using your voice.
Perspective: Presents new ways to perceive and interpret the world.
Connection: Bridges diverse cultures and experiences.
The Beauty of Food
I studied art in college, but like many other millenials I did not end up working in my field of study. Instead I ended up in the restaurant industry.
I learned the art of coffee. I first trained as a barista. Learning the perfect extraction of espresso, how to steam milk and pour latte art. I learned how to roast. Taking green beans from Ethiopia to Costa Rica to Peru and roasting them at varying temperatures trying to find the perfect harmony of flavors.
I grew through the industry working in all aspects of restaurants. From hosting, to serving, to baking to management, and finally to the back of house and cooking.
Eventually I moved to California. This marked a pivotal change in my life. The state’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and culinary traditions expanded my horizons and allowed me to delve deeper into my passions.
Living in Berkeley I learned about Alice Waters and became fascinated by the slow food movement. I felt the warm embrace of the California sun as I wandered through the farmers markets. The scents of ripe peaches, freshly baked bread, and the enchanting perfume of herbs like Thai Basil filled the air, pulling me deeper into the art of culinary creation. I was surrounded by the most beautiful produce I had ever seen.
I was taken with the art of food. Food became so much more than sustenance—it’s an art form, a spiritual ritual, and a way to connect with the world.
Lovingly preparing produce and creating recipes inspired by ingredients by day, and learning the healing and magical properties of herbs and flowers by night.
It was here that I fully embraced my identity as a witch, chef and artist.
The Magic in Food, Kitchen Witchery, Honoring Nature’s Cycles
The kind of witchcraft that I vibe with honors the Wheel of the Year.
As I deepened my spiritual practice, I began to see my kitchen as a sacred space for kitchen witchery—where cooking becomes a spiritual ritual that honors nature’s cycles. Each season holds its own energy, and by cooking with seasonal ingredients, I align my practice with the Earth’s rhythms.
I am deeply fascinated by herbs and flowers properties and their magical correspondences.
I also delight in creating bath soaks and essential oil blends that tap into the magical properties of what may seem like mundane ingredients.
In spring, I embrace fresh greens and herbs, symbolizing rebirth. Summer’s abundance reminds me of joy and vitality, while fall’s root vegetables reflect harvest and gratitude. Winter is a time for nourishing stews and introspection, honoring deep rest and renewal.
The Pagan holidays, which mark the turning of the year, offer opportunities to connect with the Earth’s cycles. Both food and magic connect me to Earth’s sacred rhythms, turning food into a spiritual practice.
In the kitchen, I embody both an alchemist and an artist, transforming ordinary ingredients into dishes that delight the senses. I find joy in the bold, vibrant flavors of fresh herbs, ripe fruits, and locally sourced produce. Each meal becomes a celebration of life, a symphony of tastes, colors, and aromas that bring joy and healing to those who partake.
Venus on My Rising: A Celestial Influence
I got into astrology when I was a young teenager. One day, I went over to my best friend Caroline’s dad’s house. We were sitting in her dad’s office and she told me about astrology. She put in my birth information and boom there it was. The celestial picture of me. I didn’t relate a ton to it at first, I have a heavy chart with a lot of 12th House and Cancer placements. But as I grew older I really connected with Astrology as a way of navigating the world and understanding people.
Since college, astrology has been a guiding light in my life, providing insights into my personality and destiny.
Something that caught my attention a few years ago was noticing that my natal Venus sits on my rising sign.
This means that Venus was rising in the sky along with my ascendant.
If you’re not into astrology, let me explain—it means that the energy of Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and art, is a big part of how I show up in the world. I think that’s why I’ve always felt so connected to art, beauty, and harmony in all its forms. Whether it's a painting, a perfectly made dish, or a moment in nature, I just can’t get enough of it.
Venus has always nudged me toward harmony and connection, and that’s exactly what I strive to cultivate in every aspect of my life. I’ve often found myself arranging flowers in my kitchen at the end of a long day, as though Venus herself is gently guiding my hands to create beauty even in the mundane. It’s in these small acts that I feel most aligned with my true self.
Effects of Venus on My Chart:
Aesthetic Appreciation: A keen eye for beauty in everyday life.
Creativity: Enhanced artistic talents and inspiration.
Harmony: A longing for balance and peace in relationships.
Connection: Strong interpersonal skills and empathy.
The Interconnection: Art, Spirituality, & Food
My journey through art, spirituality, and food is a continuous exploration of beauty, connection, and significance. Through art, I tap into the meditative space where spirit and creativity meet. Through food, I connect with others and celebrate the cycles of life. And through spirituality, I find guidance in every brushstroke and bite.
This interconnectedness has taught me that every part of life—whether creating a piece of art, preparing a meal, or practicing my spirituality—is an opportunity to nurture beauty, connection, and meaning. In this way, each experience, like a tile in a grand design, shapes the whole picture of our lives.
As I reflect on my journey, I invite you to reflect on the intersections of art, spirituality, and food. How do these elements shape your life and inform your identity? What connections can you cultivate to bring greater meaning and joy to your experiences?
Wow! Love hearing your story. Beautiful, rich, and full! 💙 Thank you for sharing! 😁
Another Bay Area folk! Hi neighbor! ☺️
Looking forward to learning more from you!