Hi, I’m Kathryn Costa—artist, author, astrologer, and guide for soulful and creative living.
My journey with mandalas began over 25 years ago, but it was during a time of deep grief that this sacred artform truly became my lifeline.
A year after my father passed away, I was still feeling numb—showing up for life, but disconnected. During a quiet moment on a visit to a friend in Colorado, I picked up a handmade journal and watercolors. Those first gentle brushstrokes stirred something in me. I started drawing mandalas again. Five months later, my creativity was fully reawakened. I launched a challenge to create 100 mandalas in 100 days and invited my blog readers to join me.
That one inspired act led to a book deal for The Mandala Guidebook and opened a path that would touch the lives of thousands around the world.
Mandalas became my sanctuary—a sacred circle where I could find peace, clarity, and healing. Over the years, they’ve helped me move through grief, reconnect with joy, and navigate the complexities of living with bipolar II. The mandala continues to offer a safe, spacious container for self-discovery and transformation.
As a certified astrologer, I’ve deepened my practice by exploring the rhythms of the moon, the wisdom of the zodiac, and the energetic centers of the chakras. I now blend these modalities to offer workshops, courses, retreats, and online content that support others in living more creative, connected, and soulful lives.
Through True North Arts, I share sacred tools and practices from mandala-making and moon journaling to intuitive astrology and creative healing.
Whether you’re:
- Rekindling your creativity,
- Seeking emotional or spiritual healing,
- Exploring mandalas for the first time, or
- Longing for connection to something deeper…
…you are welcome here.
Let’s walk this path together—creating beauty, honoring the cycles, and living with heart.
Welcome to True North Arts, a space for you to:
- Learn to draw mandalas through my book and YouTube videos.
- Travel by Moonlight—a blog series where we pause at the new and full moons to listen, reflect, and create sacred art.
- Journey through the Four Gates and connect with the elements of self—air (mind), water (emotions), fire (desires), and earth (body).
- Tune into your energy centers by easily creating chakra art using my stencils.
- Join me for online and in-person events that nurture creativity and connection.
There are beautiful new offerings on the horizon, and I’d love for you to be part of the journey. Stay connected by subscribing to my website or email newsletter.
May your mandala practice be a sanctuary.
With love, creativity, and warm squishy soul hugs,
Kathryn Costa
Short official bio:
Kathryn Costa is an artist, author and astrologer whose passion is summed up in three little words: create and connect. Since launching her blog in 2008, Kathryn has inspired individuals across 175 countries with her personal stories and vibrant artwork. Through her workshops, Kathryn guides participants in finding clarity, releasing fear, embracing their dreams, and exploring their creativity.
About the 100 Mandalas Challenge
In October 2014, Kathryn embarked on a transformative journey—the 100 Mandalas Challenge. Her goal was simple yet profound: to create 100 mandalas in 100 days. Along the way, she discovered how each mandala is a mirror, reflecting the artist’s thoughts, emotions, and stories in that moment. Kathryn invited her online community to join the challenge, sparking a global movement. Within a year, thousands of mandala enthusiasts from all corners of the world embraced the practice, making it an international sensation.
Kathryn’s exploration of mandala-making has revealed its deeper purpose beyond creating beautiful designs. It’s a deeply relaxing and healing practice that helps individuals navigate life’s challenges, including:
- Coping with the loss of loved ones and processing grief
- Managing depression and anxiety
- Living with chronic illness or facing a difficult diagnosis
- Healing from strained relationships
- Transitioning through major life changes
- Making significant decisions with clarity
Kathryn is also the author of the popular book, The Mandala Guidebook: How to Draw, Paint, and Color Mandalas (North Light Books). Packed with accessible projects, the book is a go-to resource for beginners and seasoned artists alike, offering guidance on everything from drawing mandalas to working with mixed media. It’s the perfect companion for anyone looking to dive into this expressive art form.
Kathryn lives in the picturesque landscapes of New England with her two beloved cats.
See: Publications, Trainings, Recognitions, and Interviews
“Kathryn’s retreat was life-changing for me as a teacher, mother, friend, artist, and spiritual seeker.”
JENNETH WALDEK
TEACHER, 30 YEARS