Exploring the Mystical Realms: How Astrology and the Occult Can Inspire Your Artistic Vision

Duru Eksioglu
4 min readJan 19, 2023

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Illustration by Duru Eksioglu

Astrology and the occult have long been sources of inspiration for artists. From the tarot card illustrations of the Renaissance to contemporary film and literature, these ancient practices continue to inform and shape creative expression.

One way for artists to tap into this rich source of inspiration is to study the symbolism and imagery associated with astrology and the occult. The tarot, for example, is a powerful tool for exploring the human psyche and understanding the deeper meaning behind our experiences. Each tarot card has its own distinct symbolism, and by studying the meanings associated with these symbols, artists can gain insight into the human condition and use this understanding to inform their work.

Illustration by Duru Eksioglu

For example, the tarot card “The Tower” is often associated with sudden upheaval and destruction. An artist could use this symbolism to create a piece that explores themes of upheaval and change in a powerful and evocative way. Similarly, the tarot card “The Star” is associated with hope, inspiration, and the search for meaning. An artist could use this symbolism to create a piece that speaks to the human desire for connection and understanding.

Another way to draw inspiration from astrology and the occult is to explore the ways in which these practices have been depicted in popular culture. For example, the films “The Witch” (2015) and “The Love Witch” (2016) both use the imagery and symbolism of witchcraft to explore themes of power, desire, and the dark side of human nature. Similarly, the TV series “American Horror Story: Coven” (2013–2014) and “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” (2018–2020) both draw heavily on occult imagery and themes to create a sense of unease and mystery.

Illustration by Duru Eksioglu

Artists can also look to their own horoscope as a source of inspiration. Each zodiac sign has its own set of personality traits and potentials, and by understanding these traits, artists can gain insight into their own strengths and weaknesses and use this understanding to inform their work. Additionally, understanding the cycles of the moon and the movements of the planets can also be a great source of inspiration.

In astrology, the planets represent different aspects of the human experience, such as the Sun representing the self, and the Moon representing emotions. By understanding the symbolism behind the planets, artists can use this understanding to create pieces that explore these different aspects of the human experience in a powerful and evocative way.

Similarly, the cycles of the moon can be used as a source of inspiration. The new moon, for example, is associated with new beginnings, while the full moon is associated with endings and completion. Artists can use this symbolism to create pieces that explore these themes in a powerful and evocative way.

Ultimately, the key to drawing inspiration from astrology and the occult as an artist is to approach these practices with an open mind and a willingness to explore the unknown. Whether it’s studying the symbols and imagery associated with tarot cards or immersing oneself in the world of witchcraft and the occult, the key is to let these ancient practices inform and inspire your creative work.

In summary, studying the symbolism and imagery associated with astrology and occult practices such as tarot, understanding the movements of the planets and the cycles of the moon, as well as exploring the ways in which these practices have been depicted in popular culture can all be effective ways for an artist to draw inspiration from astrology and the occult. By understanding the symbolism behind these practices, artists can gain insight into the human condition and use this understanding to inform their work in powerful and evocative ways.

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