#Practice 2 : Creative Project Development

[jian-wei-24]

F.M.P Pre-production: (Forefront [Giovanna Barcelos] )

Figure 1: Giovanna Barcelos's Corners of Croatia - Demo Reel 2024. (Giovanna Barcelos, 2024)

For today's forefront research, I went with Giovanna Barcelos’s breakdown of her Corners of Croatia environment and was impressed by how deliberate her process felt at every stage. She began by immersing herself in the streets of Dubrovnik and Split through maps and photos, using PureRef to keep her references organised.

Figure 2: Giovanna Barcelos's grey box. (Barcelos and McKenzie, 2024)

That solid base let her grey box the scene in Unreal Engine with simple blocks, ensuring scale and layout were sound before any detailed work began. As evident by her grey boxing, Investing time in gathering diverse images and testing proportions can save countless hours later on.

Once her blockout was locked in, Giovanna turned to modular design. She made a concise list of every window, door and street element she would need, then built a small kit of reusable pieces. By varying scale and rotation she filled out a large townscape without remodeling each asset from scratch. In my final masters project I intend to break shophouse details into a similar kit of modules so I can populate streets quickly while still keeping each corner feeling fresh. Two to four of the buildings next to the main highlight building will be of the similar style while the other buildings will be and older and smaller style. By creating two unique sets of modular kits like Giovanna did, I should be able to populate the area quickly.

Figure 3: Giovanna Barcelos's brief explanation on how she employed Flood Fills in her materials. (Barcelos and McKenzie, 2024)

Her next key step was creating tile-able materials in Substance Designer. She leaned heavily on flood fills and branching nodes to generate rich height and normal data, which she then used for cobblestone floors, stucco walls and carved trim. Seeing how a handful of masks can give a flat plane the look of layered brick and wear taught me the power of procedural texturing. For my environment, specifically the outside 5-foot walk way and public road, I plan to implement the flood fills method and her node network to introduce organic variation without painting or texturing every tile by hand.

Figure 4: Giovanna Barcelos's foliage atlas in substance designer. (Barcelos and McKenzie, 2024)

Giovanna’s process for creating foliage atlas and models began with blocking out plant placement using simple Quixel Megascans placeholders to plan variation and density. For plants like hostas, ivy and hydrangeas she sculpted high poly leaves and baked their normals, occlusion and curvature onto low poly planes in Substance Painter. For more complex patterns such as canna lily veins she turned to Substance Designer, using procedural nodes and sliders to generate multiple leaf variations in a single atlas. Smaller plants were hand‐assembled in Maya with simple plane kits, while fuller vegetations like ivy were shaped in SpeedTree and then baked back into atlas textures. By combining these atlas maps with lightweight geometry she achieved a rich sense of organic depth without overloading the scene. I planned to create small foliage growing on some of the older nearby buildings. Hence, this section of the article is the most useful part for me as other places on the internet are not straightforward or not in the art style I plan to recreate.

Reference

Barcelos, G. and McKenzie, T. (2024). Learn How to Make A Realistic Modular Environment in Unreal Engine 5. [online] ArtStation. Available at: https://80.lv/articles/learn-how-to-make-a-realistic-modular-environment-in-unreal-engine-5/. [Accessed: 24 March 2024].

[sebastianvarghese]

Conclusion

Despite the small size of our team, we managed to successfully complete the project by fully utilizing our skills and capabilities. Through this group endeavor, I gained valuable experience in various aspects including team management, effective collaboration, and efficient time management. Additionally, my proficiency in using the Unreal Engine software greatly improved as a result of this project, providing me with a solid foundation that I am confident will be incredibly beneficial for our upcoming final project.

[abhinavuhblog]

Practice 2 : Creative Project Development

Portfolio

Introduction

After the Live Brief project by Playground Games, I transitioned seamlessly into planning for my final major project. Given my deep-rooted passion and hobby for automotive modeling, it was only natural for me to decide that my final project would encompass a realistic and visually striking automotive visualization. To kick-start this ambitious endeavor, I delved into a comprehensive phase of research by immersing myself in tutorials on platforms like YouTube and closely studying the works of other accomplished artists in the field. This immersive investigative process was vital in shaping my strategy for achieving a level of realism that would truly set my project apart. Inspired by the incredible talents I encountered along the way, I sought to engage with some of these artists to glean insights and expertise that could further elevate my work. Aiming to establish connections with these creative minds, I made multiple attempts to reach out, only to find that most of them were occupied with their own commitments. However, amidst these challenges, luck shone upon me when I successfully connected with a like-minded artist hailing from the same native place as me, opening up a world of shared experiences and invaluable collaboration opportunities.

[annaminijayan3dblog]

Blog 1 - Live Project

For week 1, our group decided to come up with ideas for the cutscene. One of the ideas was further developed by the concept artists after presenting them to the whole group. I will write in detail about the idea I came up with based on the story brief that was provided.

Summary The scene begins when the player and their companion ( to represent Hanse and Gretel ) enter the cave of an ancient god with tree branches and plant or tree stumps that look like they have bioluminescent veins. The cave also has a few scattered bones within it. The player advances cautiously into the cave's opening where rare ore can be seen growing from the ceiling. The ores are crimson and have a faint glow to them. The cave walls have branches and veins that give it an appearance similar to the insides of a creature. The cave closes from behind and the scene loses its main light source. The player and their companion turn around in surprise while the walls start glowing yellow as if they have come alive. The cave is now lighted by the ores and the walls. A face morphs out of the wall and hands start reaching out to grab the player. The player and his companion readies themselves into a fight stance after avoiding the hands and the scene ends with a wide-angle shot of the cave.

[makingspiritualityreal]

Rahu in our chart creates an intense feeling of desire relevant to its position, but how it manifests depends also largely on the dispositor planet and its qualities.

Rahu can generate that desire twofold - through self development or through others. Of course, dispositor aspects will also matter.

To understand that in your own chart, realize that houses closest to the 1st house relate to your own sense of self, and houses close to the 7th house relate to the external projection of the other. That spreads around both ways, if you look at the chart wheel. So for self-involvement, we have houses 11 - 12 - 1 - 2 - 3, and for external projection houses 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9.

Houses 4 and 10 are the most emotionally and publicly objective, and so a dispositor in these houses is the most likely to join some sort of cause or capitalize on a creative endeavor. So the Rahu dispositor here can seem almost selfless, or more impersonal, but at the same time it’s a very practical energy.

Self involved Rahu is simply someone, who will seek that fulfillment through self development. It doesn’t mean they won’t give to others or their other planets can’t make them experience external appreciation, but they will ultimately desire self growth in some way. Learning from others will of course occur on that path as means to self development.

The “externally” focused Rahu is extremely susceptible to projection. They look at others and the traits they admire and desire in them, so they focus on those people or even idolize them, but other people are ultimately a reflection of qualities they want to develop within themselves one way or another, but may be afraid to. So at the end of the day, they simply need a reflection to mirror their growth path, and depending on their maturity, may or may not find the courage to become the qualities they admire in others.

[tsublue]

Asteroid Aura in Astrology (1488)

All Rights Reserved to @tsublue

What does the asteroid represent?

The name of the asteroid can be much of an explanation. It’s the energy you may give off to other people and what their first impressions of you could be.

Please do not take astrology as something you “have to act” like or blaming problems on placements. Astrology is a tool of self discovery and development.

Please do not copy, rewrite, repost etc posts. If needed to reference or use parts always contact the autor and always give credit.

Aries - 1, 13, 25 deg

At the first impression you can come off as someone competitive, feisty and passionate. You can also seem to people as someone really outgoing and fearless.

Taurus - 2, 14, 26 deg

At the first impression you can come off as someone a bit untouchable and expensive, yet really clean. You have a caring aura and seem to be dependable to people and that may leave you with lots of responsibility.

Gemini - 3, 15, 27 deg

At the first impression you come off as pretty sociable and someone with a big social circle and knows what they’re doing. You come off as flowy and can offer an helping hand anytime, especially to new people in a social environment.

Cancer - 4, 16, 28 deg

At the first impression you’ll have a really calm presence and can look as if you’re really relaxed with your inner world and are comfortable with what you are or have and don’t need to prove anything. You do incredible work and are basically all an employer can ask for and more. Your warmth can really make people around you comfortable.

Leo - 5, 17, 29 deg

You come off as someone with a wide imaginative world who has incredible ideas and is ready to share them immediately and has a good voice to do so. You get things going as time pleases and have an amazing work persona with a strong inner world. Closed off people can be thrown off by it at first, but you’ll prove yourself and others.

Virgo - 6, 18 deg

You come off as you are here to get things done and nothing else much. You have incredible work ethic, but need to plan it out so it won’t be too excess, for your own well being. Everything has to go by your plan and word or it won’t work out. You’ll feel this especially during a deadline or a crisis. People are really appreciative over you even if it’s not physically shown out loud.

Libra - 7, 19 deg

You come off as someone with insanely creative ideas and warm persona. You are good at voicing your ideas and know what to do in order to achieve something, even if you doubt yourself. You have charming nature which can attract people to focus more on you as for inspiration and more. You are most likely first one to get paired up or get a work buddy because people enjoy being around you and you have amazing team work skills.

Scorpio - 8, 20 deg

You may come off as someone a little mysterious’, but have a really warm persona. You are amazing at taking the word ‘no’ and fixing yourself for the better for the next time. Your presence is powerful which people want to give you respect in order to be liked or tagged along. Little like Kris Jenner if you’d like to take it that way.

Sagittarius - 9, 21 deg

You come off as really friendly and down to earth. You can corporate any idea from others into your work. even if you don’t favor it that much you’re a good sport and know how to handle it. You can be a perfectionist in projects and have an ideal image made out in your head before starting something. Even if you know how to accept the ideas of others, it can sometimes come off as blunt and strange, but everyone knows your heart is in the right place.

Capricorn - 10, 22 deg

You can come off as someone who really knows what they’re doing even if you don’t. You are ready to give an helping hand or a tool anytime anyone asks. Even if your creative world is not always working to the maximum, you’re excited to tag along for any project. Thanks to your amazing thinking, practicalizing & caution skills you’ve really earned a firm spot.

Aquarius - 11, 23 deg

You can come off as someone who really knows how to solve difficult and electronical issues which makes many come to you for problem solving. You have an incredible helping hand. You can come off as distant or not interested in a conversation which is not always true. You love designing things that go out the norm and go outside the box which can bring you success.

Pisces - 12, 24 deg

You can come off as someone who doesn’t really think their ideas through which can make people not always listen to you. You got incredible creative skills that you can incorporate anywhere and everywhere. You have a friendly presence and come off as someone who really gets it which can make many open up to you. You may have an attractive or calming voice which can make people really listen to you.

Yours truly, Tsunami

[theambitiouswoman]

I have been celibate for 3+ years & I wanted to share how this has helped shaped who I am.

Disclaimer: This is not me telling you what to do with your life and your bodies. It comes with zero judgement. I am of the belief that there is a season for everything, and we evolve into many different people in our life. I would be remiss if I didn't say that I definitely think it's a good idea to practice it. I do believe that psychologically, spiritually & emotionally having casual sex has a lot of negative implications for both men and women. However your beliefs around intimacy are purely up to you. Sex isn't bad, that's not what I am saying, but when you are having sex with someone you are absorbing their energy, and the energy of their past lovers too, so having sex with the wrong person can really ruin you.

Honestly the idea of anyone touching me if they do not meet my needs emotionally, mentally, physically etc absolutely disgusts me. I have never been of the type of let anyone "have me" but even more so now. Remember that when you start treating yourself differently, your perspectives and the things you are attracted to also start to change.

Maybe some girls don't understand this so I am going to say it. You do not have to sleep with a man for him to like you, love you, treat you well, or buy you things. If you haven't experienced this, you may not agree. But this is my reality and the reality of so many others, so yes it is actually totally possible.

I will say that the first year can be difficult but after that it gets much easier cause your mindset changes. I recommend taking that first year to really dive in and analyze your relationships, work on your wounds etc. Feeling lonely is something I see come up a lot, and while human beings are not designed to be alone, you should not feel lonely and that is probably a good starting point to work on with yourself if that is the case.

Anyway, these are some of the changes I have experienced:

1. Greater mental clarity and can focus more on personal goals, career & self development.

2. Reduced emotional turbulence. Creating better emotional balance and inner peace.

3. Realizing self love and self worth come from you, rather than seeking external validation. It reduces stress, increases self awareness & provides identity outside of others.

4. Higher standards, better boundaries. Intimacy is a choice, not a necessity. Being unable to control your lust is a weakness. Understand that falling in love purely through sex is lust, wounds and attachment / abandonment issues, need for validation, insecurity etc.

5. Insane increase to intuition.

6. Gives you control over your body and life. It allows you to be more selective about who you let into their personal space.

7. Increased creativity & passion to channel into art, projects, or other personal endeavors.

8. For those recovering from past trauma or heartbreak, celibacy can be a time for healing and self reflection. It offers the space to process emotions, heal old wounds and rediscover yourself.

9. No energetic enmeshments with toxic souls, which btw you are absorbing all of it. Grosses me out any time I think about it.

10. Even prettier than before (but i'm sure not entertaining toxic men and drama contributes to that as well)

11. People are even more drawn to be because of my strong sexual energy & pure aura.

[bomusims]

track 02: check pattern

perhaps we are walking on many lines that are crossing one another meeting you was the coincidences crossing over if i think that was all maybe the breakup will be bearable ... maybe it's because we embody different colors so that we couldn't approach each other

track 03: i don't wanna do anything

over nothing at all i'm getting sensitive again piling up dust-like worries one by one ... right now, looking through the rain-streaked window i feel like i'm watching something everything's blurry and out of focus things that won't change

track 06: wednesday night

every wednesday night for some reason, my heart flutters even the stuffy weather and the congested roads i feel like i can forgive it all ... every time, i greet you with a smile and say, “hello” then, “thank you for making time for me” when we part, i say, “sleep well and don’t even dream” hope to be with you on every wednesday night

author's rambling

initial notes

i had my work cut out for me with this one—it’s on a completely different scale and style from my april entry. brunch club had 1 big render and 5 smaller edits with pics taken in cas; this project had a minimum of 3 big renders, with an undetermined amount of extra stuff. this time, instead of creating characters and developing lore for them, i wanted to create scenes that conveyed the emotions i feel when listening to the song, and the visions i imagine while reading the lyrics. i’m much more skilled with blender after almost 2 months worth of practical experience, so at least i didn’t have to learn an entirely new program. i didn’t even have to make renders for this, i just wanted to do it because they’re fun and i like the creative freedom i get with rendering vs taking in-game pics.

album - 30

this album really spoke to me because while it may not be the most groundbreaking work of art, it definitely holds significant meaning, especially to sungjin himself. it comes with the added bonus of two of the songs being right up my alley in terms of music taste—so much that it’s almost unnerving. it’s like that guy lives in my brain

there is something about this album that just goes so well with public transportation, and that's where the inspiration for my edits came from! you can take a peek at my moodboard here

check pattern

this one i had a pretty clear vision once i read the lyrics. it’s a song about going your separate ways after a breakup, and i immediately thought of an elevator scene (i also thumbnailed an escalator scene, but that was scrapped early on). i made a render and did all the editing for it, but i wasn't sure if i really liked or not, and then i ended up making a completely new render using the subway scene

i do think that as far as the meaning of the song goes, my original edit fits better, but overall as a set i like this one more

yes, i know, it parallels the shining twins. no, that was not my intention but what the hell, sure

did i sneak chuuves in here? yeah #ILoveLesbians

i don't wanna do anything

this actually the first edit i finished for this entry, and i liked it so much that i ended up using the same scene and overlays on the other two for #Continuity

the original idea was a snapshot from outside a city bus at night, with the silohuette of someone inside the bus behind a foggy, rain-streaked window. i was doing pretty alright when it came to building the scene and so forth, but i hit a dead end when i got to the window bit. there's a line in the lyric that goes 'right now, looking through the rain-streaked window', and so getting the rain on the window would be a crucial part of the render. at first i had planned to download someone else's shader and slap it on my window object, but the ones i found for free either weren't compatible with the blender versions i was working with or they simply were not cooperating with me. i didn't have the time to go through all the troubleshooting, so instead i watched a tutorial on how to make my own… which ended up being incredibly complicated and it probably would have taken me at least 3-4 hours if i had tried making my own shader. then i decided to just add the rain and fog during postprocessing, so i hit that render button and got to editing. but i wasn't feeling how that turned out either

i decided to go with a subway scene instead, and it turned out really well! i'm quite happy with the results on this one

wednesday night

this one sent me through the wringer and back. i went through so many thumbnails and drafts, but nothing was really hitting

about a week before the deadline, i had the genius idea to make mitsuaya-inspired sims for it. if i did it with chuuves, who's to say i can't pop some green yuri in there!

originally, i had in mind mitsuki offering her hand in escort to aya as she departed a bus, but trying to find pose references drove me up a wall. then i tried to make the poses without a reference, but i just could not get mitsuki to look natural. aya's poses were easy, but mitsuki always looked so stiff and i couldn't figure out how to make her relaxed without sacrificing posture and so forth. then i had the idea to make ALL of the renders using the subway scene, and i ended up with the two of them sitting down and leaning against each other

the sims themselves posed a whole other problem. aya, once again, was fairly easy to make and dress up in cas, but i went through four (4) different iterations of mitsuki and her outfits before settling upon the final one you see in the edit. i wanted to stay true to their canonic fashion taste, and mitsuki has a very androgynous/masc grunge-y punk-ish streetwear wardrobe. i tried referencing official art, but the pieces i had didn't quite fit the bill and i did not have the time to go cc hunting. in the end, i had to compromise and go slightly off canon (mitsuki has not and never will wear a cropped top or jacket), but i'm pretty satisfied with how she turned out!

the scene… oh boy. i tried extracting assets from in-game and cc, but the textures were off (i.e. there was a big ass american flag on the side of the bus and it's the only swatch but i'm not really rocking with patriotism like that) and i'm not quite there with my texturing skills yet, so trying to make a recolor was out of the question. then i tried using non-sims blender assets and 3d models, but trying to find decent quality models for free online is like searching for a pin needle in a haystack. and then i tried building my own scene completely from scratch—which means making brand new meshes and objects. the meshing went pretty okay, but trying to add materials and textures gave me a headache so that was a no-go as well. but once i decided to pivot to using the subway scene instead, things went rather smoothly! by that point, i had worked with that specific scene over ten times (mostly scrapped drafts), so cleaning it up was quite easy, and making poses and adding lighting were a breeze.

misc notes

what's club30, you ask? uhhhhhhh lesbian gay bar

i actually planned for a 4th render, but i ended up having to scrap it due to time constraints

my fave songs off the album are i don't wanna do anything and wednesday night! i love them so much yall i'm probably in the top 0.05% listener percentile or whatever the fuck it is

i was really close to redoing my first render so the models would be nanahachi instead, but alas… deadlines are a thing

@peachibunnii's server hosts monthly challenges, and this is for the may prompt! i'm also a mod over there! come and say hi :)

i'll be posting some behind the scenes wip pictures n things like that over on my patreon! you can find them here :)

thanks and credits: @peachibunnii and the bunniis for the prompt and encouragement; @salemssimblr and the crypt for their help and support; @vyxated for the life-saving ea rigplus; alex murias for the amazing scene i used in all of the renders; all the creators whose cc i used to make my sims: @jino-sims @seoulsoul-sims @jius-sims @charonlee @serenity-cc @caio-cc @sentate @hezeh @pralinesims @asansan3; blender, clip studio paint 4.0, sims 4 studio, and inkscape (the programs i primarily used); and last but not least, my emotional support brother from another mother beerkyeg. i'm definitely missing some people, but know that i love and appreciate you all! <3

[cognitivejustice]

 Shangwei was an unassuming and modest village, ringed by small warehouses and repair shops. The village itself had been designated an arts and cultural village, and was home to a motley group of artists, sculptors, and other creatives.

The practice is dedicated to “community-gardening” as a form of regeneration of urban villages 城中村. Urban villages are a uniquely Chinese phenomenon, stemming from the confluence of rapid urbanization clashing with the existing dual land structure of Chinese villages/cities—village land is still classed as 集体 “collective”, with each villager entitled to collective ownership, often entailing rights in communal enterprises and right to build a house and farm.

When Shenzhen urbanized, villages like Shangwei and many others were often able to keep their residential property, while farmland around the village was absorbed for urban development. Today, Shenzhen’s urban villages provide low-cost housing, vibrant street life and food. While many Chinese cities have been moving to demolish their urban villages, many of Shenzhen’s villages have become quite wealthy, undertaking their own property development and renovating homes, maintaining their “right to the city”.2 

Huang and Yuan promote their approach as “community-led design”, borrowing from ideas about bottom-up urban planning and community governance in the West. They argue that their practice is “as much about governance 治理 as about design 设计. Although, even in the projects they have worked in, the commissioning entity is often the local village administrative committee, which is technically part of the state apparatus. Thus, the question of how much “grassroots governance” is really possible within China’s hierarchical administrative system is an open one. Huang and Yuan acknowledge this, but also state that they are commissioned by the local village authorities to undertake community planning, working with residents in the village on behalf of the local government, which lacks the capacity or understanding of community-driven design. So in this sense, they are consultants hired by the local village government to interface and work with the local population.

Their projects also span typologies from community gardening to public services. One of their projects in Shenzhen’s Window of the World neighborhood was built in a community with many foreign residents from 22 countries. Here, residents were selected by lottery to obtain small plots for farming vegetables, “including shared planting areas, gravel gardens, four-season orchards, herb gardens, bee and butterfly gardens, rainwater gardens, and activity squares.”3 At another project in the Huaiyayuan Community of Nanshan District, Sketch Action helped a community transform an empty paved area of a parking lot in front of the community into a diverse garden, and residents participated in planting and design themselves.4

[s7my]

YOUR TALENT IN MATRIX DESTINY

calculate your MATRIX DESTINY here :

1 - The Magician

you have a natural gift for understanding how things work and making new ideas come to life. you easily see connections others miss and can use your mind to solve problems in creative ways. you’re good at taking what’s around you and turning them into something useful or powerful. your confidence helps you start projects and take control without hesitation. you don’t wait for things to happen; you make them happen by using your skills and quick thinking. this means you’re great at planning, inventing, and leading, but you need to stay focused and not get distracted by too many ideas at once. your talent lies in making your vision real through action and clever use of what’s available.

2 - The High Priestess

you have a strong ability to understand things that aren’t obvious or visible, like feelings, hidden truths, and deeper meanings. you trust your intuition and can sense what others might miss, making you good at reading people and situations without needing everything explained. you’re naturally calm and patient, able to wait for answers to come instead of forcing things. this helps you make wise decisions based on your inner knowledge instead of just facts. you’re also good at keeping secrets and understanding mysteries, which means people often come to you for advice or guidance. your talent lies in knowing when to listen, observe, and trust your gut to find the truth beneath the surface.

3 - The Empress

you have a natural talent for creating and nurturing growth in everything around you. whether it’s ideas, people, or projects, you know how to help them develop and thrive. you’re good at making things feel comfortable and welcoming, and you often bring out the best in others by supporting and encouraging them. you notice details that help you improve what you touch, and you have patience to see things through from start to finish. you’re also connected to your senses and the physical world, so you understand how to use resources wisely and create beauty or abundance. your strength is in building strong foundations and caring for things so they grow healthy and last long.

4 - The Emperor

you have a natural ability to take control and bring order to chaos. you’re good at setting rules, making plans, and creating structure that others can rely on. people look to you for leadership because you’re confident and steady, able to make tough decisions without hesitation. you don’t shy away from responsibility and have a strong sense of duty to protect and build stability. you’re practical and focused on results, so you work hard to create security for yourself and those around you. your talent is in organizing resources, people, and ideas in a way that builds a solid foundation that lasts over time, and you have a strong sense of authority that naturally commands respect.

5 - The Hierophant

you have a natural ability to understand traditions, rules, and systems that guide people’s behavior and beliefs. you’re good at learning and teaching what’s important in a clear, organized way that others can follow. you see value in structure and shared knowledge, so you’re skilled at helping people find meaning through group ideas, rituals, or accepted wisdom. you’re patient and disciplined, able to stick with long processes and pass on lessons that others respect. your talent lies in connecting people to something bigger than themselves, whether it’s culture, religion, or a common set of values, and helping them feel grounded and supported by that. you’re reliable in maintaining order and guiding others through established paths.

6 - The Lovers

you have a natural talent for understanding relationships and making connections between people. you see the importance of choices, especially when it comes to matters of the heart or values, and you’re good at balancing different needs and desires. you’re skilled at creating harmony and bringing people together because you understand both sides and can communicate clearly. you feel deeply and use that emotional insight to make decisions that affect you and others. your strength is in knowing when to commit, how to build trust, and how to create partnerships that work. you’re also aware that your choices have consequences, so you think carefully before acting. this makes you good at forming meaningful bonds and guiding others.

7 - The Chariot

you have a strong ability to stay focused and push forward even when things get tough or confusing. you know how to control your emotions and keep your mind clear so you can reach your goals. you’re good at handling challenges because you’re determined and don’t give up easily. you take charge of situations and use your energy to overcome obstacles quickly. your talent lies in balancing different forces or ideas within yourself and using that balance to move ahead with confidence. you’re also skilled at steering your life in the direction you want, making decisions quickly, and staying motivated no matter what stands in your way.

8 - Justice

you have a natural ability to see things clearly and fairly, even when situations are complicated or emotional. you’re good at understanding what’s right and wrong and making decisions based on facts, logic, and fairness instead of feelings or bias. you’re honest and responsible, and you expect the same from others. your talent lies in balancing different sides of an issue and finding solutions that are just and fair for everyone involved. you’re skilled at following rules and principles, and you hold yourself accountable for your actions. you don’t avoid difficult choices, and you’re willing to face the consequences to maintain fairness and truth. this makes you someone others trust to make fair judgments and keep things balanced.

9 - The Hermit

you have a natural talent for stepping back and looking inside yourself to find answers that others might miss. you’re good at being alone and using that time to think deeply, reflect, and understand your true feelings and thoughts. you don’t rush to share what you learn but prefer to keep your insights private until you’re sure. your strength is in your patience and your ability to focus on your personal growth without distractions. you’re skilled at guiding yourself through tough times by trusting your own wisdom, and people often look to you for quiet advice because you see things clearly. you’re not easily influenced by outside noise, which helps you stay true to your path.

10 - Wheel of Fortune

you have a natural talent for understanding that life is always changing, and you’re good at going with the flow instead of fighting it. you notice how events come and go in cycles, and you use this awareness to make smart decisions about when to act or hold back. you’re adaptable and can handle sudden shifts without losing your balance or direction. your ability to see patterns in chance or timing means you can take advantage of opportunities when they appear, and you don’t get stuck when things go wrong because you know it won’t last forever. your strength lies in staying flexible and open to change, using both luck and timing to your benefit.

11 - Strength

you have a natural ability to stay calm and steady when things get tough, using patience and inner confidence instead of force or anger. you’re good at controlling your emotions and fears, which helps you face challenges without losing control. your strength comes from understanding yourself deeply and showing kindness even in difficult moments. you don’t rely on power or aggression to get what you want; instead, you use quiet courage and persistence to overcome obstacles. your talent lies in handling pressure with grace and influencing others through gentle but firm self-control. this lets you stay balanced and focused no matter what’s happening around you.

12 - The Hang3d Man

you have a natural ability to see things from a different perspective and accept situations that others might resist. you’re good at stepping back and letting go of control when needed, which helps you find new ways to understand problems or challenges. you don’t rush to act but instead wait patiently, knowing that sometimes progress comes from surrender and reflection. your talent lies in being able to pause and rethink, gaining insight by looking at things upside down or differently than most people. you’re comfortable with uncertainty and can handle discomfort without panic, using it to grow and shift your mindset. this helps you discover deeper truths and find solutions others might miss because you’re willing to change your view and embrace patience.

[jian-wei-24]

F.M.P Pre-production: (Forefront [Ahmed Albaqlawa] )

Figure 1: Ahmed Albaqlawa's The Ship Engineer's Apartment (Albaqlawa, 2025)

For this forefront research, I decided to read through Ahmed Albaqlawa’s breakdown of the Ship Engineer’s Apartment project and came away inspired by how he blended Victorian and steampunk elements into a lived in environment. I picked this article because I will also be combining Asian and Western cultures into an environment. So, by reading this article, I hope to learn some insights on how he combines art elements and more about his development pipeline.

Figure 2: Modular pieces developed by Ahmed Albaqlawa. (Albaqlawa and Rutherford, 2025)

He started by finding the perfect concept art and then built a modular architecture kit around a 200 by 200 centimetre floor piece. Watching how he created pipe kits and organised his props into large, medium and small categories really showed me how smart modular planning can make a big difference in consistency and efficiency.

Figure 3: All of the props used in Ahmed Albaqlawa's environment.(Albaqlawa and Rutherford, 2025)

His approach to texturing was also very impressive. By grouping objects into shared texture sets, he maintained a clean Texel density across everything, from big props like the drafting table to smaller items like stacks of books. He used Substance Designer for the tile-able floor and wall materials, then added hand painted wear and tear in Substance Painter. I plan to take this lesson and apply it to my own work, especially for detailed surfaces like Peranakan tiles and exterior walls. There shouldn't be too much obvious weathering as the building in my environment will be a newly constructed building.

Video 1: Ahmed Albaqlawa's experience with Translucent Coloured Shadows. (80lv, 2025)

One of the most memorable parts was how he handled the stained glass material. Ahmed experimented with different techniques like light functions and blueprint projections before deciding on a translucent material with subsurface scattering. It achieved a beautiful soft glow without the need for heavy rendering techniques like path tracing. Although stained glass material was introduced to the specific era's shop houses type that I planned to make, I previously had no plans to do so. However, after reading Albaqlawa's work and experimenting, I might give it a try during the develop of my final master project.

Seeing Ahmed’s workflow has given me a clearer path for my own project, especially about tips on how to careful modular design based on lots of real life images, and thoughtful texturing methods to ensure Texel density is proper. All these tips and tricks can bring an environment to life, such as in seen in Ahmed Albaqlawa's final render in figure 1.

Reference

Albaqlawa, A. and Rutherford, A. (2025). Breakdown: Cozy Ship Engineer’s Apartment. [online] 80.lv. Available at: https://80.lv/articles/breakdown-cozy-ship-engineer-s-apartment/ [Accessed: 5 April 2025].

[sebastianvarghese]

Third Week

In the last two weeks, we made the strategic decision to bring our characters to life by sourcing them from the diverse and vibrant collection available on Deviant Art. This platform offered us a wide array of intricately detailed designs that not only captured our attention but also enhanced the depth of our visual narrative significantly. One of our dedicated team members, Nikos, played a pivotal role by providing us with invaluable insights on character expressions. These insights were seamlessly integrated into our creative process, enriching our final video production with a deeper sense of emotion and authenticity. Collaborating closely with my teammate, Abhinav, we combined the meticulously crafted 2D characters with carefully-rendered 3D background images. This collaboration was a first for us in a professional setting, providing us with a valuable opportunity to gain exposure to industry practices and refine our teamwork dynamics.

[abhinavuhblog]

Practice 2 : Creative Project Development

Portfolio

PCG (Procdural Content Generation)

Throughout my extensive research endeavor, I have been diligently exploring various methodologies aimed at enhancing my understanding of the techniques involved in constructing an asphalt road and simulating natural environments within the dynamic realm of Unreal Engine. It was during this rigorous exploration that I stumbled upon the innovative concept of Procedural Content Generation (PCG), which has proven to be a game-changer in my pursuit of creating immersive landscapes and intricate vegetative elements on a grand scale. The utilization of PCG technology has not only streamlined the process of generating diverse terrains and lush greenery in a virtual setting but has also opened up a world of possibilities in terms of enhancing the visual realism and depth of the virtual environment. Embracing the power of PCG has empowered me to push the boundaries of creativity and realism within my Unreal Engine projects, enabling me to achieve a level of detail and authenticity that was previously unimaginable. Through harnessing the potential of PCG, I have been able to infuse my virtual worlds with a sense of organic beauty and complexity, thereby elevating the overall aesthetic appeal and immersive quality of my creations. Furthermore, the adaptability and scalability of PCG have enabled me to efficiently create vast and diverse landscapes teeming with dynamic elements that respond organically to user interactions, resulting in a more engaging and interactive virtual experience. In essence, the integration of PCG into my workflow has not only revolutionized my approach to environmental design in Unreal Engine but has also unlocked a new realm of creative possibilities, allowing me to construct mesmerizing virtual worlds that are both visually captivating and technically sophisticated.

[a-d-nox]

what's a venus return?

did you know that you can check more than just your sun's return? any time a planet transits and becomes exactly conjunct your planet (it is in the exact sign and degree it was when you were born), you undergo a planetary return. venus returns happen roughly every 2 years at a maximum (unless there is a retrograde then it could be about 11 months that you undergo the return). my venus return happened this past weekend so here we are continuing my previous series.

but what can a venus return chart show you?

your romantic life. who you can attract / are likely to fall in love with. how your beauty evolves. sympathy you need. pleasures you have. the art/creative work you can make. your ability to provide self-love / how you can best practice it. harmony you will find. compromises you need to make. how your aesthetic can shift. entertainment you seek. what you will value. luxury items you splurge on. where your laziness originates. how you can be more sensual.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

sun

assumption that others crush on you, aesthetic others identify with you, youthfulness, attractiveness, attention from potential suitors, entertainment you seek and/or provide others, what you feel you deserve from others / the universe, what makes you different from others romantically / aesthetically, development of beauty, dignity regarding your appearance, awareness of your looks, objects that bring you joy / pleasure, validation you receive, and/or how express your self in terms of fashion / beauty

moon

emotional responses to romantic situations, loving/jealous instincts, how you show you care, romantic comfort zone, feminine aesthetic - masculine/male gaze, how your childhood effects the romantic partners you seek, fertility, how your beauty/aesthetic adapts to trends, how you breasts change/develop, romantic life habits/trends, and/or comfortability in your space

mercury

romantic communication, love language, physical touch, words of affirmation, talking phases, the creative mind, perception of beauty, creative writing, social media aesthetic/entertainment, flirty mannerisms/gestures, love defying reason, romantic change, forgetfulness that leads to laziness, romantic gossip, romance/smutty reads, self-care routine, and/or youthfulness

venus

romantic experiences, attraction, beauty, pleasures, artistic ability/projects, self-love, divine femininity, sharing romantic feelings/gestures, your aesthetic, entertainment you seek, romantic values, receiving gifts, luxury items you desire, and/or romantic sensuality

mars

romantic passion, desires, romantic confidence, creative ambition, romantic preferences, sex, jealousy, romantic competitiveness, impulsive romantic behavior, sensuality, self-assurance in your beauty, divine masculinity, masculine aesthetic - feminine/female gaze, assertiveness in a romantic connection, dominance, romantic/creative activities, sensual energy, sexuality, romantic combativeness, and/or romantic/creative motivation

jupiter

romantic luck/abundance, wealth of suitors, wealth of luxury / things that are pleasurable, romantic/creative success, romantic opportunities, topical popularity, expansion of wardrobe, entertainment knowledge, honesty in romantic relationships, romantic wisdom, ease in romance, romantic blessings, romantic optimism, justice regarding previous relationships, self exploration, artistic vision, romantic/self devotion, study of aestheticism, self-growth, and/or romantic fulfillment

saturn

romantic/creative achievement and mastery, romantic challenges/struggles, quality time, karmic romances, romantic life lessons, how your paternal figure affects you self-esteem / romantic relationships, fears regarding love, insecurities, romantic guilt, romantic delays, romantic limitations, how past romantic relationships effect new ones, self-love deficiencies, romantic practicality, romantic solitude, romantic maturity, romantic detachment, consistency you show others, grudges against competition / past lovers, and/or your relationship history

uranus

friends to lovers, dating apps, movies as a form of entertainment, sudden romantic relationship, what makes you unique in comparison to others in the dating/artistic scene, how you don't follow the beauty trends, romantic independence/freedom, open relationships, unexpected dates or contact from a suitor, shocking declarations, and/or social media fans/followers

neptune

kindness you show others, artistic creativity, glamorous appearance, sensitivity to others feelings, selflessness in a romantic relationship, escapism via love, intuitive design, use of imagination, makeup / what is presented to society, romantic mysteries, romantic confusion, evasion of commitment, self-love mantras, transcending the norms of aestheticism, fascination with appearance/design, and/or thoughts on your ideal appearance

pluto

glow-up for the self / closet, romantic power, sex, destruction of the old self, rebirth of beauty (hence "the birth of venus"), romantic intensity, magnetism experienced in the romantic realm, romantic infatuation/obsession, seductive performances, romantic manipulation, and/or closet purge

1h

aesthetic you identify with, outward/physical appearance, romantic outlook/approach, beauty, confidence, creative/romantic beginnings, initiating relationships, flirty mannerisms, presence, individuality, and/or how passionate you appear

2h

money you spend on looks, how much effort you put into your appearance, possessions you adore, self-worth/self-love, romantic values, emotional security/insecurity, romantic stability, gift giving/receiving, and/or romantic resources

3h

romantic communication, attractiveness of your speaking voice, what people enjoy about your voice, the creative mind, romantic thoughts, creative perception, opinions on fashion/beauty/love, romantic interests, romantic gossip, romance/smutty literature, appearances on social media, phone calls with romantic interests, visits with romantic suitors, and/or dates

4h

aesthetic of your home, how your family effects your relationships (particularly maternal figure), harmony your inner child seeks in connections, romantic emotions, self-care/self-love, and/or how where you live effects your relationships/appearance

5h

thoughts on children, childishness in romance relationships, pettiness, creative talent, romantic drama, romantic risk-taking, how you react to attention from others, short-term romantic relationships, creative hobbies, romantic pleasures, what suitors bring you, romantic get aways, and/or romantic joy

6h

romantic/creative routine, acts of services, physical effort made to make your body appear as it does, your romantic duties, self-improvement, romantic/creative consistency, hygiene habits, beauty routine, romantic innocence, and/or how your diet effects your appearance

7h

long-term romantic relationships, marriage/partnership, attraction to others, attractiveness to others, ability to charm others, romantic conflicts, marital/nda/pre-nuptial contracts, romantic affairs, those who openly show they are jealous of you, and/or romantic equality

8h

physical transformation, aesthetic/wardrobe transformation, how close you get to others, romantic changes, shared finances between spouses, foreplay/seduction, intimacy you have with another person, secret relationships, romantic mysteries, and/or romantic trauma

9h

romantic wisdom, romantic beliefs/philosophy, perspective in romances / creative works, love languages, how your in-laws see you, romantic ethics, entertainment media/television/interviews, and/or education involving love/creation/aesthetics/appearance/fashion

10h

how the public sees you, relationship status, romantic reputation, creative fame, appearance goals, romantic/creative mission, romantic expertise, and/or romantic/creative achievements

11h

friends to lovers, romantic desires, uniqueness of internal beauty, social awareness in terms of collective beauty, influence you have over fashion and beauty, romantic/creative manifestations, wishes for romance, romantic ideals, debutants, romantic companions, artistic clubs/organizations, and/or costume parties

12h

healing from past romantic connections, hidden desires, romantic karma, beauty sleep, how your appearance/romances effect mental health, solitude/isolation from others, people who are secretly jealous of you, illusions of joy/pleasure, romantic fears, romantic endings, escapism via romance or art, romantic/creative self-sabotage, how past romances effect present/future ones, romantic delays, and/or romantic restrictions

have ideas for new content? please use my “suggest a post topic” button! 

return to nox’s guide to metaphysics

return to the masterlist of return charts

© a-d-nox 2024 all rights reserved

[blackstarlineage]

30 Ways Modern-Day Africans Still Exhibit a Colonial Mindset: A Garveyite Analysis

Marcus Garvey’s Pan-Africanist philosophy emphasized self-reliance, cultural pride, and the rejection of colonial influence. However, many Africans today still exhibit behaviours and attitudes rooted in a colonial mindset. Below are 30 examples, explained and analyzed in depth, from a Garveyite perspective:

1-10: Cultural Influence and Identity

1. Preference for European Standards of Beauty

Example: Many Africans prioritize lighter skin, straight hair, and European features over natural Black aesthetics.

Analysis: Skin-lightening creams and the global embrace of Eurocentric beauty ideals reflect internalized inferiority and rejection of African identity.

2. Disdain for African Languages

Example: African children are often discouraged from speaking native languages in favour of English, French, or Portuguese.

Analysis: Linguistic erasure ensures dependency on colonial languages for governance, education, and international relations.

3. Glorification of Western Education

Example: Degrees from European or North American universities are valued more than African ones.

Analysis: This reinforces the notion that African intellectual systems are inferior, perpetuating brain drain and dependency.

4. Adoption of Western Names

Example: Africans often give their children Western names instead of traditional African ones.

Analysis: This signifies a rejection of African heritage in favour of aligning with Western norms.

5. Colonial Religious Practices

Example: Christianity and Islam dominate African spiritual practices, while indigenous beliefs are demonized.

Analysis: Religion was used as a colonial tool to pacify and control, and its dominance reflects ongoing psychological colonization.

6. Rejection of African Fashion

Example: Western suits and dresses are deemed more "professional" than African attire in workplaces.

Analysis: Clothing reflects identity, and the preference for Western styles reinforces the idea that African traditions are primitive.

7. Accent Bias

Example: Africans with European or American accents are viewed as more intelligent or credible.

Analysis: This bias reflects internalized colonial superiority.

8. Neglect of African History

Example: African curricula prioritize European history over African empires like Mali, Songhai, or Great Zimbabwe.

Analysis: This erasure perpetuates ignorance about Africa’s rich heritage and contributions to civilization.

9. Worship of Western Entertainment

Example: Hollywood and European music dominate African media, sidelining local industries.

Analysis: This promotes cultural dependency and undervalues African creativity.

10. Desire to Migrate to the West

Example: Many Africans dream of emigrating to Europe or the U.S. for a "better life."

Analysis: This mindset undermines the potential of building strong nations on the continent.

11-20: Political and Economic Dependence

11. Reliance on Foreign Aid

Example: African governments often depend on Western aid for development projects.

Analysis: This fosters dependency and allows Western nations to control African policies.

12. Colonial Borders

Example: African nations still adhere to arbitrary colonial borders that divide ethnic groups.

Analysis: The refusal to renegotiate these borders reflects a lack of sovereignty and Pan-African unity.

13. Imitation of Western Governance

Example: African governments replicate Western political systems, often failing to adapt them to local contexts.

Analysis: Blind imitation undermines the development of systems rooted in African traditions and needs.

14. Dependence on Western Currencies

Example: The CFA franc, used by West and Central African nations, is controlled by France.

Analysis: This reflects continued economic colonization and inhibits financial independence.

15. Exploitation of Resources by Foreign Corporations

Example: Multinational companies exploit Africa's oil, minerals, and agriculture with little reinvestment.

Analysis: Africans prioritize Western partnerships over local ownership and control.

16. Outsourcing Security to Foreign Powers

Example: French troops stationed in Africa under the guise of fighting terrorism.

Analysis: This reinforces the narrative that Africans can not secure their own nations.

17. Preference for Imported Goods

Example: Imported clothing, food, and technology are seen as superior to local products.

Analysis: This devalues African production and stifles economic growth.

18. Neocolonial Debt Traps

Example: African nations take loans from institutions like the IMF, leading to perpetual debt.

Analysis: These loans come with conditions that undermine sovereignty.

19. Overdependence on Western Technologies

Example: Africa imports most of its technology rather than building local industries.

Analysis: This dependency stifles innovation and economic independence.

20. Election Interference by Western Powers

Example: Western nations influence African elections through funding or propaganda.

Analysis: This undermines democratic processes and reinforces external control.

21-30: Social and Psychological Patterns

21. Black Elitism

Example: Africans educated in the West often look down on those educated locally.

Analysis: This creates divisions within African societies and perpetuates classism.

22. Hostility Toward Pan-Africanism

Example: Resistance to efforts to unify Africa economically or politically.

Analysis: Colonial powers instilled fear of unity to prevent collective strength.

23. Undervaluing African Labour

Example: African workers are underpaid while foreign workers are overpaid for similar roles.

Analysis: This reflects an internalized belief in the superiority of non-African expertise.

24. Neglect of Local Agriculture

Example: African nations import staple foods like rice despite fertile lands.

Analysis: This prioritizes foreign economies over local food sovereignty.

25. Demonization of Traditional Medicine

Example: Preference for Western pharmaceuticals over indigenous remedies.

Analysis: This reflects distrust in African innovation and healing systems.

26. Preference for Colonial Languages in Art and Literature

Example: Writers and artists creating works in English or French to gain Western recognition.

Analysis: This marginalizes African languages and creativity.

27. Inferiority Complex Toward Western Nations

Example: Africans praise Western infrastructure while criticizing their own.

Analysis: This self-perception hinders the belief in African potential.

28. Overlooking the African Diaspora

Example: Africans often ignore the struggles and contributions of African Americans, Caribbeans, etc.

Analysis: Colonial divisions still separate the global African community.

29. Dependence on Colonial Education Systems

Example: African nations still use colonial curricula with minimal African content.

Analysis: Education is a tool of control, and this reflects ongoing intellectual colonization.

30. Hostility Toward Repatriation

Example: Africans discouraging descendants of the enslaved from returning to Africa.

Analysis: This reflects colonial teachings that Africa is undesirable or unworthy.

Garveyite Call to Action:

Marcus Garvey warned against mental colonization and called for:

Reclaiming African identity: Embrace African languages, cultures, and traditions.

Economic independence: Build industries, control resources, and support local economies.

Pan-African unity: Foster solidarity among Africans worldwide.

Rejection of Western validation: Recognize that Africa’s greatness does not depend on foreign approval.

“Liberate the minds of men, and ultimately, you will liberate the bodies of men.” – Marcus Garvey

[riwa-s-tarot]

The 4 Seasons

🌸 Spring - What needs creative expression?

🌴 Summer - What needs to slow down?

🍂 Autumn - What is ready for harvesting?

❄️ Winter - What needs shelter and care?

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

Choose the picture that you feel is speaking to you the most.

Remember that this is a collective reading and it doesn't replace the value of a full personal reading - take what resonates, leave what doesn't!

𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

❇ Pile 1

[🌸Ace of wands 🌴9 of cups 🍂The World ❄️ Temperance]

🌸 Don't be afraid to express what you're most passionate about, whether it’s drawing, writing, or dancing. It doesn't matter what it is! This is the right time to go all out and enjoy it all. If you’re uncertain where to start, don't worry: there's no need to go big, just begin little by little without overthinking. Anything that inspires you will be fine.

🌴 Perhaps during this period, you feel more negative than usual, with your thoughts racing toward negativity. So, pause for a moment: try to listen to the birds singing, to notice the scent of nature, and to feel the sun on your skin. Savor your next meal to the fullest, pet your animal, and hug the important people in your life. The advice is to halt negative thoughts and appreciate the small pleasures of life to remind yourself that even in the darkest times, you can find something worth moving forward for.

🍂 You are about to reach the end of a path that began some time ago, be it the beginning of a love story or a work project, and the finish line will be filled with joy and satisfaction. You have successfully integrated different aspects of your life and achieved a sense of balance and harmony; it’s time to fully enjoy this moment.

❄️ Don't make hasty decisions; weigh each choice carefully and select what makes you feel good, balanced with yourself and the world. Avoid conflictual individuals, connect only with those who deserve your precious time and bring well-being into your life. Protect your harmony and inner peace.

────── 𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧 ──────

❇ Pile 2

[🌸 The Hierophant reversed 🌴Page of wands 🍂3 of wands ❄️10 of coins]

🌸 Whatever you decide to do, do not adhere to dogmas or pre-constructed patterns! Break the rules, challenge traditions, be independent in your thinking and actions. Be your own mentor and explore alternative beliefs and practices, embracing your individuality and creating your own rules. Trust your inner self and develop your personalized practices, whether spiritual, artistic, or work-related.

🌴 It would be better to temper any excessive impulsiveness; focus on learning rather than acting. If you have many ideas and can't decide which one to implement, don't rush in without thought, but try filtering them to keep only those most aligned with your principles.

🍂 If you’ve been planning something for a long time, now is the right moment to put your ideas into action, be it a trip or a new project that you’ve been considering for a while. The important thing is to stick to your plans and be ready to push the limits of your comfort zone. Be far-sighted, anticipate difficulties and think long-term.

❄️ Protect your material investments and the security you’ve achieved through your hard work. Take care of your family (whether it's biological family or your chosen family) and give back to your community, not necessarily through money but also through acts of generosity and kindness. Form new relationships with like-minded individuals and nurture existing ones with those you care about.

────── 𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧 ──────

❇ Pile 3

[🌸Death 🌴4 of swords 🍂Queen of wands ❄️9 of swords]

🌸 Try to face the inevitable changes in life creatively: leave old paths to explore new ones. Be careful not to get stuck in harmful habits. Eliminate everything superfluous to focus on what truly matters, on what aligns with your values.

🌴 You may be very busy during this period, and everything may seem heavy and complicated. What needs to slow down is you! Take some time for yourself to rest your body and mind. It would be better to avoid excessive efforts, giving yourself the time to recover. Perhaps you could take advantage of this resting period to meditate and examine your personal goals.

🍂 Put your self-confidence, enthusiasm, and creativity to good use. Be bold in pursuing your ambitions and ideas, carry them forward with courage and passion. Invest your energy and attention in projects and relationships that fulfill you: let go of people and plans that don't excite your mind or spirit.

❄️ Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Protect both by taking care of your sleep! Learn good habits that facilitate falling asleep and make sleep more restorative. Don't obsess over the future or dwell on the past, but take care of yourself in the present.

────── 𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧 ──────

❇ Pile 4

[🌸The Tower 🌴Strength 🍂Page of cups ❄️6 of swords]

🌸 Have you been considering a drastic haircut for a while? Or dyeing your hair a specific color? Do it now! Want to try that absurd recipe you saw on TikTok? Go for it! Channel your energy through creative acts or activities different from your usual routine: write a poem, compose a song, or sign up for a dance class. And if your life feels chaotic right now, remember that only through adversity can you discover your inner strength and resilience.

🌴 Take time to nourish your spirit. Train your self-control, both to handle external events and to avoid falling into your own vices. Remember that most problems are better resolved with calm and patience than with brute force.

🍂 Enjoy the connections with your special people; let the positive feelings you have for them flow. Ask for and give affection; don’t be afraid of your emotions or theirs. If you’re contemplating a more serious relationship with someone, this is the right time. It’s also a good time to start new projects that are important to you.

❄️ If you are emerging from a negative period, now is the time to focus on healing and hoping for a brighter future. Try to move forward in small steps, distancing yourself from the painful past and being cautious not to bring old problems into your present. If the situation you’re in feels uncomfortable, don't hesitate to leave it and step into an unknown but better future.

────── 𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧 ──────

✶ ✶ Thank you! ✶ ✶

For choosing my Pick-a-Pile