
2019-11-14
Written by Emily Carter
Natasha Khan's latest project, "Motherwitch", is an enchanting illustrated oracle deck that weaves together mysticism and storytelling. The deck features 44 cards adorned with intricate illustrations, offering guidance and wisdom to those seeking self-discovery and empowerment.
Unveiling the Mystical World of Motherwitch: An Exclusive Conversation with Natasha Khan
Natasha Khan, aka Bat for Lashes, is no stranger to pushing boundaries and exploring unconventional mediums in her artistic endeavors. Recently, she has been working on a new project that delves into the realm of visual storytelling – an enchanting illustrated oracle deck titled "Motherwitch". As we delve into the world of this mystical guidebook, It's Nice That sat down with Natasha Khan to discuss the visual inspirations and "compulsive" process behind this mammoth project.
The Birth of Motherwitch
For Natasha, the idea of creating an oracle deck began during a pivotal moment in her life – while she was pregnant in lockdown. As she navigated the isolation of COVID-19, she found solace in the world of art and mythology. The concept of "Motherwitch" emerged from this introspective period, drawing upon Khan's fascination with ancient feminine archetypes and mystical practices. This intuitive spark grew into a full-fledged project, which now consists of over 50 intricately illustrated cards.
Visual Inspirations: A Journey Through the Mystical
The visual inspirations for Motherwitch are as diverse as they are deliberate. Natasha drew upon various sources, including mythology, folklore, and her own personal experiences with spirituality. Her artwork is characterized by dreamlike landscapes, symbolic creatures, and mystical imagery – all woven together to form a cohesive narrative that invites the user to explore their own inner world. From the "Earth Mother" card to the enigmatic "Wild Hunt", each image serves as a portal to a unique realm of interpretation.
A Compulsive Process: Brining Motherwitch to Life
The creation of Motherwitch was an all-consuming process for Natasha, driven by a sense of compulsive urge. She worked tirelessly, pouring her heart and soul into the project over several months. The illustrations themselves were often created in a state of flow, with Khan allowing herself to get lost in the creative process. "It's not like I was thinking about the final product," she explains. "I just wanted to create something that felt true to me." This organic approach allowed the artwork to evolve organically, reflecting the ebbs and flows of Khan's own inner world.
Unlocking the Mysteries of Motherwitch
As we explore the world of Motherwitch, it becomes clear that this oracle deck is more than simply a visual guidebook – it's an invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Natasha's artwork offers a window into her own inner workings, providing a framework for users to navigate their own mystical landscapes. With its richly illustrated pages and symbolic imagery, Motherwitch has the power to inspire introspection, spark creativity, and offer guidance in times of need. As we conclude our conversation with Natasha Khan, it becomes clear that this enchanting oracle deck is only just beginning to reveal its secrets – and we can't wait to see what wonders lie within.
A Conversation with Natasha Khan
We spoke with Natasha Khan about her creative process, inspirations, and the significance of Motherwitch.
"Motherwitch represents a fundamental aspect of my own spirituality – the connection between the natural world and the human experience."
"The oracle deck is not just about providing guidance; it's also about sparking curiosity and encouraging users to explore their own inner worlds."
"I've always been drawn to the mystical and the unknown, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to share this aspect of myself with others through Motherwitch."
Exploring the Artistic Process
Natasha Khan is known for her diverse artistic endeavors, which often blur the lines between music, visual art, and performance. We asked her about the role of visual media in her creative process.
"I find that working with different mediums – such as collaging and painting – allows me to tap into different aspects of my creativity."
"I'm constantly experimenting with new techniques and materials, always seeking to push the boundaries of what's possible."
The relationship between sound and visual art is a key theme in Khan's work. She often incorporates her musical compositions into her visual projects, creating an immersive experience for the viewer.
"The visual aspect of Motherwitch was born out of my love of music and performance – I wanted to create something that would complement my sonic explorations."
Influences and Inspiration
Natasha Khan drew inspiration from a diverse range of sources when creating Motherwitch. We asked her about some of her key influences.
"I've always been fascinated by the mythology and folklore surrounding feminine archetypes – the witch, the goddess, etc."
"The work of artists like Frida Kahlo and Georgia O'Keeffe has had a profound impact on my creative process."
Natasha Khan's journey into spirituality and mysticism has also played a significant role in shaping her artistic vision.
"I've been drawn to various forms of meditation and spiritual practice – it's helped me tap into my own inner world and creativity."
Conclusion
As we conclude our conversation with Natasha Khan, it becomes clear that Motherwitch is more than just an oracle deck – it's a testament to the power of art and imagination. With its enchanting illustrations, symbolic imagery, and "compulsive" process, this guidebook offers a unique window into the creative world of one of music's most innovative artists.