You don’t need a fancy studio to make art. While I do have a dedicated studio space in my home, I find joy in moving around and creating in different corners of my world. Sometimes the change in setting sparks something unexpected. Today, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at where and how I created during this fiery New Moon in Leo and the upcoming Lion’s Gate portal.

Let’s start at my kitchen table—today’s creative command center. I gathered a medley of supplies: colored pencils, markers, scissors, glue, plus a few meaningful items for inspiration. Each object helped me sink into the moment and the energy of Leo. Let’s take a closer look…

Here’s a detail shot: a framed photo of the Dalai Lama watches over my workspace. His teachings on compassion inspired my Four Gates Mandala stencil and the Journey of the Four Gates: Creating Mandala Art to Cultivate Compassion. And if you look closely, you’ll see Leo peeking out in the background, keeping quiet company as I draw. My inner lion is definitely purring.

During the recent Capricorn full moon, I was feeling that pressure—Am I doing enough? Is this going anywhere? That’s when I found this little frame tucked away, with the message: “Have fun building on your successes.”

It felt like just the right blend of Capricorn ambition and Leo’s joyful spirit. I lit a battery-powered candle, took a breath, and remembered why I do this. Since then, I’ve been blogging with purpose and delight. Worry has given way to wonder.

In this wider shot, you’ll notice a woman playing harp on my TV screen. I love creating to the soft, soothing sounds of harp music. My 75″ screen turns the room into a sanctuary when I stream calming YouTube videos like this. It helps me drop into flow.

What kind of music do you like to create to?

The day was too beautiful to stay indoors, so I brought my art outside. I grabbed a snack, my sketch pad, a handful of colored pencils and markers, and set up on my deck. There’s something about fresh air and sunshine that opens the creative channels wide.

Here’s a closer look at the mandala I’ve been working on. My favorite part of any piece? Adding the shading and subtle details that bring it to life. You can really see the difference from the base drawing to the finished textures—this is where the magic happens.

This art journal page and mandala found their way into the Lion’s Gate Gathering Guidebook. It’s a Leo love letter—bold, radiant, and full of heart. I’m thrilled to share this creation with other soulful seekers and creatives like you.

Want to join us for the next gathering? Come bask in the glow and get the details here for the Lion’s Gate Gathering.

Reflections by Moonlight, part of the Traveling By Moonlight series, is where I get personal with astrology and share what’s showing up for me at the new and full moons. May these musings help you notice your own reflections by moonlight—where insight and wisdom await. Thank you for being part of this soulful and creative journey.(((soul hugs))) Kathryn