A magazine for creatives who share a love of colour.
UNITED
OF DESIGN
The Gold Book - 01.04.2022 Wisdom • Abundance • Authentic Power The Gold Book April 2022 • 1
Scan for Website
DISCOVER THE
BEHIND YOUR BRAND.
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTACT I AMY BELL I +1 647.830.8485 AMY.BARROSO@WHITELIGHTNINGCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
OFFICIAL DESIGN FIRM FOR UNITED COLOURS OF DESIGN MAGAZINE
UNITED
OF DESIGN
FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Amy Bell ART DIRECTOR - Judy Weinberg EDITORIAL CONSULTANT - Moira Bush ON STAFF HYPNOTHERAPIST - Samantha Timbers
CREATIVE MENTORS COLOURS OF FENG SHUI COLOURS OF FINE ART COLOURS OF MAKE-UP ARTISTRY SPECIAL ARTIST INTERVIEW
Sherry Brouzes Sonal Raje Annika Rayman Luma Qusus Awad
BUSINESS COLUMNS COLOURS OF ADVERTISING COLOURS OF BUSINESS COLOURS OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT COLOURS OF WEALTH COLOURS OF VISIBILITY
Katherine Cott Moira Bush & Amy Bell Marion Sadavoy Whitney Hammond Sara DiFlow
LIFESTYLE COLUMNS COLOURS OF ASTROLOGY COLOURS OF EMBODIMENT COLOURS OF ENERGY COLOURS OF FAMILY COLOURS OF HYPNOSIS COLOURS OF INTIMACY
Crystal Eves Tasha Bodnarchuk Kathryn Dzsudzsak Heather Bain Samantha Timbers Jennifer Love
COLOUR-FILLED REPORTING NOW-STALGIA ALERT 2022 INTERVIEWS W/CREATIVE HUMANS INNER GOLD GOLD ENERGY
Janice Cardinale Dwayne Richards Korani Connolly Diana Butler
To connect with one of our columnists, subscribe, purchase, advertise or submit your work, scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
PUBLISHED BY: White Lightning Communications Sales and editorial inquiries to amy.barroso@whitelightningcommunications.com www.unitedcoloursofdesignmag.com Newmarket, Ontario CANADA Copyright© 2022 White Lightning Communications No portion of this publication in it’s written/video/audio form may be copied in full or part without explicit consent from the publisher. The information provided in all formats is for entertainment purposes only and provided in good faith, however White Lightning Communications, United Colours of Design Magazine/Podcast, Amy Barroso, columnists or employees make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information. Please consult a professional for advice around financial, health or legal issues. The opinions expressed by the authors of each column or feature are theirs and theirs alone.
CREATIVE MENTORS 42
COLOURS OF FENG SHUI Sherry Brouzes
46
COLOURS OF FINE ART Sonal Raje
50 54
COLOURS OF MAKE-UP ARTISTRY Annika Rayman SPECIAL ARTIST INTERVIEW Luma Qusus Awad
COLOUR-FILLED REPORTING 22
NOWSTALGIA ALERT - 2022 Janice Cardinale
72
INTERVIEWS WITH CREATIVE HUMANS Dwayne Richards
118 120
4 • United Colours of Design Magazine
LETTING GO OF CONTROLLING BEHAVIOUR Diana Butler INNER GOLD Korani Connolly
LIFESTYLE COLUMNISTS
BUSINESS COLUMNISTS 60
COLOURS OF ADVERTISING Katherine Cott
64
COLOURS OF BUSINESS Moira Bush & Amy Bell
68
COLOURS OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT Marion Sadavoy
76 80 84
COLOURS OF VISIBILITY Sara DiFlow
90 92
COLLABORATION STATION Business Directory
COLOURS OF WEALTH Whitney Hammond NAVAJO COLOUR THERAPY Exercise
UCOD ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR Information
94
COLOURS OF ASTROLOGY Crystal Eves
98 102
COLOURS OF EMBODIMENT Tasha Bodnarchuk
106 110
COLOURS OF FAMILY Heather Bain
114
COLOURS OF ENERGY Kathryn Dzsudzsak
COLOURS OF HYPNOSIS Samantha Timbers COLOURS OF INTIMACY Jennifer Love
NOTICES 10 8 18 20 86 89
COLUMNIST BIOS LETTER FROM FOUNDER Amy Bell UCoD VISION Amy Bell STUDY COLOUR WITH CREATIVE DIRECTOR Amy Bell BECOME A COLUMNIST Application information BECOME A FEATURED ARTIST
FEATURED ARTIST GALLERY 124 125 126 128 130 131
Apurv Purandare Laurel Best Michelle Richards Mara Szyp Heather Edgington Tasha & Yana
132 134 136 138 140 142 143 144 145 146 148 149
Brian Baker Amber Sibley Viktoryia Urukova Shelley Adams Kanella Ciraco Amanda Pistillo Ramona Kretten Kory Martin Mary Jennifer Brauner Luma Qusus Awad Judy Weinberg Ritu Neb
Scan for Sponsorship Information
Meet our GOLD Sponsors! With them we are able to bring you mentors from the creative, arts and design community, professional guidance from heart-centered businesses, life hacks and advice from conscious humans and provide a platform to showcase the work of amazing people around the planet! If you believe in the message of this magazine and the arts community at large, kindly follow them and visit their websites! To see what support they can offer your creative business, click the company name below for a direct link to their sponsor page. Cardinale Creative.....................................11 Collaboration Station..................................80 Grafik Essentials..........................................40 Kathryn Dzsudzsak......................................15 Moira Bush...................................................38 Ripples Bath Boutique.................................88 Sovereign Wealth Management.................13 Study Colour with Amy Bell.........................20 White Lightning Communications..............58
LETTER FROM THE
F UNDER AMY BELL
Click here for the audio version of this article.
Surrendering to the Black Dragon Holy lesson in trust as I work toward this gold deadline! Each edition brings its excitement and challenges and it was silly of me to think that Gold would be any different. Many of the writers for this edition are going to speak to you about stepping into your power, embracing your I Am’ness and the alchemy that comes with Gold. I am going to write about another aspect of Gold, trusting and surrendering into what is. I had no idea how much of a control freak I actually was until I was put to the trust test this month. For the last few years, I have taken part in a predictions program put on by my mentor Moira Bush. At the beginning of the year, we pull 12 cards from her Colour Mirrors Oracle Card deck. One card for each month of 2022. As I absorbed my spread for the year, I found myself feeling a bit
8 • United Colours of Design Magazine
nervous with the amount of black cards, particularly the ‘Black Dragon’ card for March. When you read the message of the Black Dragon (below) you’ll understand why I was a bit skittish about that particular card turning up. (In my Birthday month of all months!). Black Dragon represents death and rebirth. He relates to the phoenix which is always reborn more beautiful and more powerful than before. This dragon reminds you that the journey is an endless series of deaths and births - and that is OK. He is black with silver sparkles, indicating that in the darkness there is always light. His gift is bringing light into the darkness and a reminder that there is a bigger picture. Endings are always beginnings and every step along the way is for our highest good. Black Dragon helps us release our judgments around death and darkness and what we have considered evil. When I picked the card in January, I had no understanding of how impactful and bang on this card would be! What stuck out for me in
the description about the Black Dragon was the bit about ‘endings’. I’ve never been good with goodbyes or endings so I entered into March, with much trepidation, I was actually relieved to see that no major upheavals were on the horizon and I started to relax. That is until my King and I had the brilliant idea that now was the perfect time to sell our home and kick-start our dream of owning a retreat centre. Exciting... Right?! With no idea where we would end up I went to visit my Real Estate Agent to find out the state of the market. When I asked her when a good time to put the house on the market would be... Her answer was ... yesterday! Because I love the story that numbers and colours tell and for shits and giggles I calculated the date I went to see my agent, which was the date I signed the paperwork to list the house. 09.03.2022 = 18 (1+8=9) Nine is an ending number, which I thought was pretty neat. I was ending a cycle on a date that was a nine. Cool huh? But wait, it gets cooler! When this house closes (in June) I will have been here for exactly 9 years! And... I just turned 54 this year, ALSO A NINE! (5+4=9) And... The closing date that works best for our family is 24.06.2022 WHICH IS ALSO A NINE!!! Did I need any more conformation from the universe that I was heading in the right direction?! With all those beautiful nines you’d think that surrendering to what is should be easy... Right? I wish! I went into full panic mode! Where would I put the bunnies while we had the house on the market? How was I going to paint the entire house in a week? How were we going to clear out the garage that had become the storage unit for family members? There was decluttering, fixing, raking, dumping and right... A magazine to get out by April 1! Suddenly the relaxation of nothing on the horizon turned into chaos and mayhem! I can’t tell you how many times I sat in the middle of the floor and cried at the magnitude of what I had signed up for. And there was my man, cool as a cucumber not worried and constantly reassuring me all would be well. We spent an entire day going through our garage, touching everything once... Were we keeping it? Were we chucking it? Could we use that for our new retreat centre? “Do we really need to hold on to those hockey sticks Brian?” In nine years, I’ve never seen him play once lol! At the end of the day, we felt AMAZING. Everything was labeled and placed in secure bins for safe keeping. I truly felt that we had both risen from the ashes of old soccer shoes and ski equipment! Now it was time declutter the house and make it feel like no one lives there... Why is that?? Who came up with notion that there should be no evidence of humans living in a home for sale?? Anyway, we had the appointment with the home stager, and she sent me a 10-page document of stuff to move, keep or fix ... again, I found myself freaking out at the giant task before me. Photos were in 6 days, and I still hadn’t picked up a paint brush! Brian and I worked 14-hour days prepping and cleaning and
painting ... OH MY! I wanted perfection; I wanted my home for the last 9 years to look her best when I presented her to the world. I can’t even tell you how fast those 6 days went. The day before the photographer came, I had a meltdown. I sent an SOS text to Moira on how to bend time so I had room in the final day to get the house perfect. Her advice... Surrender. That is NOT what I wanted to hear. I wanted a magical solution that would make everything OK. I asked her what the hell surrendering and detaching even looked like. It was as though all my spiritual and colour training went out the window. She said I should breathe in “I Am” and breathe out “I Surrender” and do it until I pretty much pass out! Do it until I felt it in my soul. While I was breathing in I AM and breathing out I SURRENDER!!! I got my shadow cards out. Why was I having such a difficult time letting go? I pulled the “Time” card. Was the universe joking?! Time is what I needed and there it was. In God’s time, not mine... OF COURSE! I was trying to push my agenda rather than surrendering into the agenda that my higher self already had for me. I found myself repeating “everything is perfect as it is”. If there’s a vent that isn’t covered, or a spot on the wall... Who cares! It’s not going to have any impact on the sale of my home. After-all, this house is 54 like me and trust me, I have some cracks and scars but that doesn’t mean my man is not going to want me because of them. (OMG!! The house is a 9 this year!!) As I write this editorial, I am smack in the process of trusting AGAIN! The house is listed and over the weekend there were only 2 showings... ugh! We spent a fortune on hotel rooms, our family was uprooted, the bunnies were a 3-hour tour away (Thank you Jenn!) And barely an interest! I was completely perplexed and second guessing my agent’s suggestions, I was second guessing the photos we took, the copy that was written for the listing... I was pointing fingers and wanting to blame someone for the lack of interest. I messaged her and wanted answers as to what the hell was going on? Her response... We’ve done everything possible, now we have to trust the process. Again, that was NOT what I wanted to hear! (Do you see a pattern here lol!) After a hot reply I sent her an apology. She was right. Why was I trying, again, to push my agenda? I allowed my shadow to drive the bus for a moment. Rather than recognizing that when I’m in fear, my spirit is perfectly fine, I allowed that fear/shadow to drive my bus and it drove straight to ‘mean town’. Clearly my agent is used to people freaking out and was gracious enough to accept my apology and I carried on breathing in I AM and breathing out I SURRENDER. It is exactly 9:11 pm on the day I was supposed to sell my house. (lol! Even as I type that I can hear my controlling nature taking over) I was hoping that by the end of this article I would be able to tell you that my house is sold and my rebirth is complete. But honestly, aren’t we always in a state of death and rebirth? Isn’t life just a continuous cycle of endings and beginnings? So here I sit, in my darkness, watching the sparkles of a new cycle float in my vortex and my job is to surrender and follow the glitter into my next adventure.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 9
Meet our Editorial Team...
ANNIKA RAYMAN COLOURS OF MAKE-UP DESIGN
CRYSTAL EVES COLOURS OF ASTROLOGY
DIANA BUTLER SPECIAL REPORT
DWAYNE RICHARDS, CPA COLOUR CONVERSATIONS
Annika Rayman is the owner of Annimations Make Up. Toronto Born and Raised, after working for several Luxury Cosmetic brands both as and artist and training, Annika runs a multi-provincial Hair and Make Up business that specializes in Bridal Beauty.
Crystal Eves is a Canadian based, natal astrologer who has been serving an international clientele for over 30 years. Known for her psychological, yet humorous approach, Crystal is always ready to share astrological insights and laughs. She holds a BSc in Psychology from the University of Toronto and an MA in Cultural Astronomy from the University of Wales, but most importantly, she has been a student of astrology for well over 40 years. Crystal’s writing has appeared in multiple newspapers including the Toronto Star, and the esteemed Mountain Astrologer trade magazine. She is also a published author who has lectured in the UK, Canada and the US. Crystal can be reached through her website at www.crystaleves.com
Diana, previously a corporate employee, logic based, numbers driven, green personality type. A non-spiritual rule follower. Leading a life guided by societal expectations and governed by a quest for structure and security. Fast forward 15 years of receiving messages from the universe, exploring her divine feminine and delving into the world of energy healing – she arises out of the ashes to declare herself an open, heart centered, freedom fighting light worker who now defines happiness through inner peace and a connection to her true self. Diana holds a degree in Psychology, a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resources, a Marketing Diploma and is a licensed Real Estate professional as well as owner/operator of Purple Poppy, a company dedicated to helping people shine like the light they are meant to be.
Dwayne offers a unique approach to finance that expertly meshes the practical and energetic side of money. Financial wellness incorporates so much more than your bank account. Dwayne’s approach connects mindset, goals, financial literacy, business, and wealth. Dwayne calls himself The Enlightened Accountant because he guides his clients out of the dark, into the light, and reveals their path… into the black!
To connect with one of our columnists scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
10 • United Colours of Design Magazine
#WOMANTOWATCH
A YEAR OF CELEBRATION!
2022 Smart Meetings Magazine - Top 100 Entrepreneurs; IWD2022 - WomenToWatch; Reiimagine 2022 - Powerful Woman in Business
Janice Cardinale is a visionary and heart-centric leader. Her latest venture, Cardinale Creative has her writing content for 3 industry publications, speaking and building communities around mental health, while facilitating conversations on what matter. If you are looking to impact, strategize or tell a compelling story, then contact Janice at jc@cardinalecreative.com.
Meet our Editorial Team...
HEATHER BAIN COLOURS OF FAMILY
JANICE CARDINALE OUT & ABOUT CORRESPONDENT
JENNIFER LOVE COLOURS OF INTIMACY
JUDY WEINBERG ART DIRECTOR UCOD MAGAZINE
Heather will be sharing suggestions, activities, and strategies in articles geared toward families and children. Along with an Algonquin College Social Services Worker Diploma she has 24 years of professional development and experience as an elementary school Behavioural Teaching Assistant. Heather runs school wide and targeted proactive and responsive programs for bullying prevention, self regulation, anger management, social skills, Heather is married and is a proud mother of 3 adult children and an even prouder Nana to her four grandsons.
2022 Top 100 Entrepreneur of the year @Smart Meetings magazine, Heart-centric entrepreneur, visionary, leader, mentor and changemaker. Board Chair at Seneca College’s, Event Management and Creative Design program. My energy and enthusiasm come from being imaginative, people-centric and collaborative. I believe that anyone can accomplish anything with intention and passion. The word NO does not exist in my vocabulary. I am an Associate Editor for Canadian Special Event magazine, a contributing editor to MPI Global magazine, and United Colours of Design magazine. I advocate for mental health and provide peer support to many. I am an MPI member, and volunteer, I am on a mission in life is to be philanthropic through my not-for-profit charity, “Giving Butterflies.” I believe in sharing and giving hope to students, individuals and others while I am alive. Creating a legacy of human connections and love is at the root of who I am.
Jennifer is certified through the Tantric Institute of Integrated Sexuality. She is also a Chakradance Facilitator and Colour Mirrors Practitioner. She will be defining intimacy and sexuality from a Tantric point of view and how these are directly connected to your creative centre. Through her study of Tantra she will be speaking about how sex has been taboo and hidden in the shadows far too long and when we open to the sacredness of our sexuality, we also open to our greatest creativity. She will also give really juicy sex practices for you to kick-start your creativity!
Freelance graphic designer and vintage shop owner based in Toronto. Judy has always been a creative. Whether through pottery, interior design, photography, graphic design, and now as a curator of all things vintage. Judy has spent the past 25 years as a graphic designer, 19 years of which operating her own firm, Grafik Essentials Inc. She supports and works collaboratively with her clients to design creative visual solutions of all kinds across industries and around the globe. In 2020, Judy turned her passion for vintage, repurposing and restyling into a new online retail venture. She opened the proverbial online doors of Jack’s Daughter of All Trades to tap into her lifelong passion for antiques and everything vintage.
To connect with one of our columnists scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
12 • United Colours of Design Magazine
STARVING THRIVING
It’s time to reverse the stigma that being creative and financial success do not go together! Sovereign Wealth Management attracts dynamic creative business owners who are on a mission! A mission to do what they love AND use it to build a beautiful life for themselves and future generations. We get you! We LOVE building your wealth, your profitability and your succession planning. We want to hear your ideas, dreams and goals, and work to make them your reality. Want to see into your financial future? Let us help! Set up your virtual appointment today, for an organized snapshot of your today and tomorrow.
905-637-3500 www.sovereignwealth.ca whitney@sovereignwealth.ca
Scan for Website
The Gold Book April 2022 • 13
WE BUILD AND PROTECT WEALTH WITH PASSION, STRENGTH AND INTEGRITY
Meet our Editorial Team...
KATHERINE COTT COLOURS OF ADVERTISING
KATHRYN DZSUDZSAK COLOURS OF ENERGY
KORANI CONNOLLY SPECIAL REPORT
LUMA QUSUS AWAD COLOURS OF JEWELERY DESIGN
For as long as Katherine can remember she’s had a flair for storytelling and creative problem solving. She has a fierce entrepreneurial drive which has allowed her to seek out and uncover strategies and opportunities for her clients. With over 20 yrs experience in broadcasting, digital media, ad sales, marketing and technology, she has spent her career building successful media strategies and partnerships. She considers her diverse experience a training ground… complete preparation for her latest venture as the co-founder and first Angel investor of Advertiise.com. They connect SME’s, National Brands and Start -Ups, providing the ultimate in creative, á la carte advertising opportunities to suit all budgets and niche markets.
Kathryn “Blue” is not your regular Medium. She has been working with Spirit and Universal energies since age 2. She is a Medium with a twist. She is a Spirit Liberator and a Transformational Intuitive Life & Business Advisor. Kathryn has never really seen death, only the life of death. Knowing your loved ones are never gone is a healing within itself. She can teach you how to connect with them too! Kathryn is also an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist®. This is an actual course to assist you on completing losses in your life that may be holding you back or interfering in your way forward. Kathryn’s purpose is to assist you in understanding the spirit/ energetic and human world. She also helps you realize what is going on in your world so you can live a full and rich life.
Korani has trained in a variety of different healing modalities, but the one that really captured her heart is Colour Mirrors, a system that uses colour to help people discover who they are and what they are here for. The combination of her love for Colour Mirrors and her passion for writing has led to two e-books and two books based around the system. Korani loves to inspire people to discover their inner gold and to follow their own unique path. Her joy is to assist people through her workshops and courses to awaken to a life that is based on simple yet profound qualities such as love, peace, joy and inner freedom. Korani’s workshops and courses all have an overlighting energy which participants find powerfully supportive in helping them make shifts in their lives.
Luma was born and raised in Amman, Jordan, and is a true lover of fine art in all its forms. Having spent much of her life traveling, luma the founder of Inamullumani gained wide-spread, international traction. Her unique collections are in high demand all around the world, by clients who recognize her exclusive and timeless taste. Ironically enough, Luma comes from a professional background in Law, until she realized her true calling was in the arts. Today, Luma’s collections have been showcased at international exhibitions, from Paris UNESCO Head Quarters to Zappeion Megaron in Athens, Dubai and Amman Design Week in Jordan. In 2019 Luma was the award winner of Women Of Inspirations Cultural Ambassador category in Canada.
To connect with one of our columnists scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
14 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Scan for Website
Life Happens
When my contract ended in April 2020 and hopes of finding something during COVID were ZERO, Kathryn was my first call. Our session lead to the creation of this magazine! Amy Bell, Founder UCOD Magazine
It’s what you do next that makes the difference When you’re looking uncertainty in the eye Kathryn’s intuitive lens brings you clarity Job loss (or any major transition for that matter) can set even the most confident person on a path of self doubt. • What do I do now? • Is this a sign to try something new? • Should I start my own business? • Should I move cities for a fresh start? • I think I know what to do but confirmation would be helpful. Kathryn uses multiple modalities to bring clarity, reassurance, confidence and relief to her global clients in transition. The answers you’re searching for are right before you, Kathryn can be the bridge between what your higher self knows and what your physical self is seeking. • Answers • Guidance • Confirmation • Energize your creativity • See a future of possibilities • Tap deeper to your intuition • Connect to your Soul purpose
Kathryn DZSUDZSAK
Transformational Intuitive Life & Business Advisor 226.387.3878 • thebluehairmedium@gmail.com www.thebluehairmedium.com
Now Booking August 2022
Meet our Editorial Team...
MARION SADAVOY, CPRW COLOURS OF YOUR CAREER
Marion Sadavoy, CPRW is a Career Services professional who serves young adults in the Arts. Currently, she is a Career Coach and Résumé Specialist for ArtBound Initiative and runs her own career coaching service for mid-level professionals. Previously, Marion was the Graduate Career Advisor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she counseled Masters students on the intricacies of job search preparation. Prior to her work in Higher Education, Marion enjoyed a 20year career in sales, marketing and recruiting. She gained extensive experience in those areas while working for major Canadian retailers, and a large marketing firm in Toronto. Marion is a certified résumé writer and has a BA in Philosophy from Western University in London, ON.
MOIRA BUSH COLOURS OF BUSINESS
SAMANTHA TIMBERS COLOURS OF HYPNOTHERAPY
Moira Bush has internationally educated entrepreneurs for over 25 years and is an authority in the field of Spiritual Colour Psychology and Numerology. From South Africa where she helped women in shanty towns to set up community based businesses, to working in England helping women off the welfare system into self-employment; Moira has a passion for helping entrepreneurs identify and transform their hidden blocks to success. Moira teaches through her courses and live broadcasts, how the systems of Colour Mirrors and Numerology can help you set up soul based businesses. Moira is the spiritual author of several books including 8 Colours of Prosperity, Colour and Shadow Oracle Decks and the founder of the Moira Bush Academy.
Samantha’s passion is to help people move towards and realize their dreams through the use of modern-day hypnosis. As a trainer of Hypnotherapy and a Certified Hypnotherapist she helps women over 40 redesign their lives through her program Redesign your life in 30 days without therapy, frustration or feeling alone. Over the past 17 years Samantha has gone through her own transformation and has redesigned her own life and found happiness and now wishes to impart her wisdom to help others. If you are interested in finding your power, decreasing your stress or redesigning your life to live the life or your dreams connect with me at samantha@ simple-wellness.ca; www. simple-wellness.ca or book a free discovery call here: https:// calendly.com/simple-wellness/ discovery-session
SARA DI FLOW COLOURS OF VISIBILITY
Sara is a broadcast visionary, consultant, artist & co-founder of Flow Network. She connects people to joy in ways that are creative, inclusive & in flow. Her passion is empowering & documenting the evolution of what she feels is the greatest paradigm shift of our time; the rise of creative, heartcentred leaders.She co-founded Flow Network to support this shift. A broadcast network of conscious community creators, bridgers, and artists who are catalysts & support for this epic transformation, with ‘edutaining’ content & creative studio session workdays. She studied Television Broadcasting, worked for a major Canadian Network, and later founded the training department of a tech startup in the industry. She also has certifications in holistic nutrition, yoga, and colour therapy. Her own yoga show on the network ties together what have previously felt like two different worlds—business & spiritual. Union is the goal!
To connect with one of our columnists, subscribe, purchase, advertise or submit your work, scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
16 • United Colours of Design Magazine
SHERRY BROUZES COLOURS OF FENG SHUI
Sherry is a Certified Feng Shui Practitioner & Graduate of the International Feng Shui School. She is also a graduate of the New York Institute of Art and Design where I studied Feng Shui Interior Design. Sherry is a Red Ribbon Professional Member of the International Feng Shui Guild and has been practicing Feng Shui for over a decade. She resides in Niagara, Ontario with her husband and Maltese furbaby.
.
SONAL RAJE COLOURS OF FINE ART
TASHA BODNARCHUK COLOURS OF EMBODIMENT
WHITNEY HAMMOND, CFP, CLU COLOURS OF WEALTH
Sonal Raje is a professional artist based in Canada. She is actively involved in the local art associations, as well as global ventures that promote the arts. She is a member of the Canadian delegation that is invited to participate in the annual show of the Société Nationale des Beaux –Arts ( Est 1862) at The Louvre in Paris, and has won awards for her work. Her art business Blue Amber Arts incorporates spiritual energy of colours to elevate the products to an experience and a unique memory. She conducts workshops and paint parties to promote expressive art, reduce stress and bring the joy of creation. Blue Amber attire and jewelry is inspired by ancient designs, rituals and techniques which convert everyday use products into contemporary fashion accessories and tools for holistic practices.
Tasha is a Holistic Counsellor who blends together counselling, Reiki, yoga, dance/mindful movement and doula work as well as creative writing and poetry. She is also the mama of two amazing kids, has traveled the world and lives for adventures in new places or her own backyard. She has worked as a counsellor, yoga teacher, Reiki practitioner and doula. Her education and experience has allowed her to explore many different modalities which flows into her practice. Living and working in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Costa Rica has expanded her knowledge of working in different communities and has allowed her to work holistically.
Whitney Hammond, principal of Sovereign Wealth Management, has been in personal practice since 1997. Whitney is a recognized leader in the Canadian financial planning field and a frequent speaker at events focusing on estate planning. With exceptional knowledge in wealth accumulation and preservation, Whitney coaches clients to build solid financial plans which include tax and estate plans, testamentary trusts, tax sheltered growth plans and, for business owners, comprehensive succession plans and exit strategies. Her expertise in wealth management, and focus on delivering effective programs has allowed her to build trusting, inter-generational relationships with her clients.
To connect with one of our columnists, subscribe, purchase, advertise or submit your work, scan the QR Code to the left with your phone’s camera or visit linktr.ee/ucodmagazine.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 17
These tenets are the basis of all that we do here at UCoD. They serve as our guiding light, showing us the way to communicate with this community. We hope you find alignment in the words.
UCoD VISI N
18 • United Colours of Design Magazine
We are perfectly in tune with our spirits We are completely connected to our souls We are of service to humanity We are fully supported by a kind and gentle universe We are joyous in the creative flow We are incredibly safe on this planet We have extreme gratitude for our gifts We have deep love for everyone our hearts and this magazine touch We are honoured that people seek our guidance We are authentically aligned with our purpose
The Gold Book April 2022 • 19
“I recently hired Amy to do a Branding with Soul™ analysis on my business. The insights that were revealed through the colour report and our session helped me reshape a brand new vision for my business. Adding my Soul colours to my logo and brand has served to attract a fresh new tribe of clients who are deeply engaged and ready to work with me. I had no idea my Soul colours could have such an impact on my business!” Sherry Brouzes, Founder, Sherry Brouzes Feng Shui
“Soul Colour reading, what’s that I asked myself? I learned through this experience that it’s another opportunity for me to gain a greater and deeper understanding of myself. Amazing to now know my (Soul) colours and how they factor into my life. Amy Bell is awesome; she is fun and knowledgeable, our session together left me glowing.” Carol Cirillo, Founder, Make It Happen Media
“ I am currently working with Amy Bell on my brand. I chose her as my designer because I had heard about her Branding with Soul™ analysis. I was intrigued to see what my business’ Soul colours were and what role they played in my marketing. I was blown away with her colour report and session and can’t wait to launch with the energy of my Soul colours behind me! ” Heather Bain, Children’s Behavioural Coach
“Amy’s knowledge about colour and numerology is amazing! Our session gave me incredible insight into my life and new business. Amy’s energy, design mastery, and love for colour makes her a invaluable brand resource.” Samantha Butler, Founder, Simple Wellness
20 • United Colours of Design Magazine
apply today
ARE YOU A GRAPHIC DESIGNER? BRANDING with
Continuing Education Course Learn how to harness the hidden power of your client’s Soul Colours to create UNIQUE brand stories they’ll love, AND charge what you’re worth WITHOUT fear of losing a job!
apply today
COL URS F DESIGN A C A D E M Y
Register Here
BY JANICE CARDINALE HEART-CENTRIC ENTREPRENEUR, CARDINALE CREATIVE
Scan for Contact Info
22 • United Colours of Design Magazine
NOWstalgia 2022
I have been writing, presenting and inspiring trends for the last 35 years. It is in my DNA and I am passionate. I believe in pushing the boundaries of ordinary. Our lifestyles have changed and so have the trends. Style trends for 2022 are on point and will help you think outside the box. However, they need to have value, purpose and recognize that what we present to clients must be of value, purpose and touch on the emotions of people.
not equal. Individuals are looking for ways to engage in a different world. You have choices like never before. With mentions of ‘nostalgia’, people are clearly craving the comfort of familiar times. Carefully consider how this nostalgic reference resonates with you.
There is a rising class of Gen-influencers who desire authenticity and transparency to spread ideas rather than products. Example: We will see many brands adopt People are being called to a higher consciousness younger people to help support the technical in 2022. Humans are craving the comfort of requirements, that the virtual and hybrid familiar times. However, themes of the past are environments demand.
So, let’s tap into the trends... The Gold Book April 2022 • 23
1
ALTBASHES RSVP to a new reason to celebrate parties for life’s undercelebrated moments What’s an Altbash? It’s something that deserves to be celebrated, even if it isn’t traditionally cause for a party. Think: you broke up with your job, you found your life’s passion, you have adopted a pet, or you finally splurged on a badly needed vacation. These are celebrations of new chapters in life and important milestones that aren’t covered by the basic celebrations we grew up having, but it’s time they got their due. There are many ways to bring this trend to life, so keep your eyes on bright colours, whimsical ideas and tablescapes that draw attention.
CELESTIAL CELEBRATIONS Parties that are out of this world Here comes the sun. And the moon. And the stars. Millennials will throw some totally cosmic parties this year. If I had to characterize the year 2022 astronomically, I would call it, “The Year of Eclipses and Planets. “There is something exciting happening in the sky almost every night of the year, if you know when and where to look. Space stations, NASA, and celebrity led experiences for the adventurers who can’t live until they do it all. Caterers will love creating foods that can be cut into stars and moons. Popcorn in celestial colours, drinks that use blue caraco. Bring a DJ who plays songs like “Total Eclipse of the sun” or other celestial offerings from the 60’s and 70’s and rock out to a cosmic vibe.
2
3
NIGHT MOVES (aka) after hours exploration The most memorable adventures will happen after sundown in 2022. People will turn to the quiet of the after-hours to invest in their travel bucket lists and nature excursions. Gen Z is driving this trend—good thing our phones take better night photos than ever. Into the dark you go. Watch out for the word “bioluminescence aesthetic” which means it’s time to grab your camera and start seeing your fave destinations at nighttime. Evening adventures will give a different and magical perspective, whether it’s exploring the beach after sunset or taking a late-night road trip.
BIOPHILIC DESIGN When natures built into your environment Biophilic design uses elements of nature to provide respite and joy to people in man-made spaces. You’ve seen plants, now meet LIVING rooms. Millennials are turning to plantfirst design solutions this year to increase their connection to nature and enhance their wellbeing. Staircase gardens, biophilic interiors and floral ceilings are all trending up. And don’t leave the office out! Humans are creatures of habit, and with so many lockdowns, the outside has become as important as the inside. When we are forced by circumstances beyond our control, we need our spaces to provide privacy or wall separations within our homes or office spaces. Searches for vertical plant walls, living rooms and biophilic wall are all on the rise.
4
5
CURVE APPEAL Arcs are in all around us and curves the word. People love curve appeal. Investing in this shape and silhouette are both sensuous and inviting. “Did you know that in architecture, the circle is the strongest shape”. Straight lines are a given, think walls, windows and table legs. This circular design lends itself to sharing conversations more comfortably Millennials, Boomers and Gen X are driving searches behind this well-rounded trend. Inspired by mid-century modern pieces from the 60s will be popular. On line searches for bent sofa, which saw adoption across the 80s, will result in a complete aesthetic.
ALL CHECKERED EVERYTHING Check please Checkers are having their moment in all areas of people’s lives—from clothing, to rugs to funky flooring. As men upgrade their wardrobes, they’ll embrace the tiled pattern, too. Millennials and Boomers in particular are driving this checkered trend. The checkerboard revival comes at a time where we have collectively experienced a great transcendence in the face of life-altering changes. For this generation, the checkerboard is a universal motif for fun that offers a touch of softness in an otherwise dull and rigid world.
6
7
EMOTIONAL ESCAPE ROOMS Safe spaces for feel good Emotions, are so hot right now. If you need a place to go to feel all the feels, there’s a room for that. The wellness trend has been growing rapidly over the past 2 years. From spa-like spaces to the wonderful world of colour psychology. The impact has never felt so current. People will plan their great (indoor) escapes and designate rooms in their homes to decompress, vibe and rage. All age groups are driving searches for music-themed rooms, crystal rooms and even rage rooms. Emotional escape rooms very much do what they say they’re rooms to escape from certain emotions. This can come in a range of forms, whether that is to unload stress in a meditation space, or pummel out some anger in a rage room. Where would you set up your emotional escape room and what would be included in it?
LAKE IT, TILL YOU MAKE IT Trade in beachfront getaways for an inland swim Lakes will have their moment in the sun. In 2022, people will trade in their beachfront getaways for inland swims. Gen X and Boomers are driving this freshwater trend that will only grow in the year ahead. Lakeside resorts, pontoon boats, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing will all be making a splash. There are so many scenic lakes, rivers and ponds where you can take a group out for a hike and swim and discover nature like never before.
8
9
THE LAST RESORT All in for all-inclusive travel Sitting back is the new adventure map. In 2022, people want to get away—to beautiful escapes where they won’t have to lift a finger. Millennials, Gen X and Boomers are turning to resorts and all-inclusive packages for easy getaways. Another daiquiri, please. Ask your travel partners where you can find resorts to unplug. Forget the jammed packed itineraries and head for the properties with an ocean view.
FLEXERCISE For the love of movement Well, good news! 2022 is going to be defined by a range of new wellness trends set to change the game. From hula hoops, to pickleball and VR. Low impact is the new high intensity! This year, people will fall in love with more mellow ways to move their bodies, which is being dubbed “Flexercise. ” Hula-Hoop is the top search trend on google. Pickleball is a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and pingpong and can be played indoors or outdoors, as singles or as doubles. VR will now make it to the mainstream with Gamification fitness. Don’t forget to check out the Flexercise bar another trend hitting the workout.
10
11
CUPPA TIME Afternoon Tea is the new happy hour In 2022, the bubble won’t burst, as people will choose teas made with enhancements over drinks after work. Afternoon tea is more than a meal—it’s a moment, an aesthetic, a pose. Searches for “tea party aesthetic” and “drinking tea pose” are huge on google searches. Already a cultural phenomenon across Asia, bubble tea has taken hold in North America – especially amongst Gen Z. This has led to the rapid expansion of brands from Asia. Have you tried a bubble milk shot? What are you waiting for?
COME ON GET HAPPY A whole lotta lovin’ is what we’ll be bringin’ People in 2022 will push through the negative and embrace a positive outlook on life. New optimists range from Gen Z to Boomers, but despite their broad demographic, they have many unifiers – the largest being a vivacious appetite to embrace joy. Watch out for a new buzz word: Radical Optimism.
12
13
PURSUIT OF PURPOSE Prompted by cultural shifts and changes, people are seeking to reevaluate their lifestyles to behave with more intention. Indulging is an actionable idea that brings results. To tap into this shift towards purposeful behaviors, brands, businesses and organizations should inspire and motivate people to take back control of their lives.
IN CLOSING In closing, how the trends affect our lives is up to us because we have a choice. I know that the majority of people I network with, want peace and tranquility in their lives. Trends steer new ideas and help us look at life and what it means.
•
M IR A BUSH ON-LINE ACADEMY FOR SOUL BUSINESSES
ONLINE COURSE
13
TH
$197
ANNUAL
DISCOVER WHAT 2022 HAS IN STORE FOR YOU THROUGH NUMEROLOGY, PLANETS & COLOURS In this online course you will discover how to navigate 2022 based on Moira Bush’s own psychic gifts, the Colour Mirrors system, Planets and Numerology. Included in your eLearning Program: • 2021’s energies in review • 2022 Global Energy Forecast and how it impacts you personally • Your Personal 2022 Prediction according to your Year Number (1 to 9 or 11 & 22)
Scan to Register
***BONUS - you can use the information in your course to do readings for family and friends! Everyone is excited to find out what number they are and what that means for the upcoming year!
This last year’s journey of getting my son properly diagnosed with adult autism was stressful. As I read and re-read the 2020 predictions, they helped me to hold a space of love instead of blaming others and being a victim. I am hugely grateful to Moira’s guidance. Monica Burman, United Kingdom In 2019, Moira had already let us know that 2020 would be crazy world wide, with all kinds of events to come that would test us all. Of course, I kind of thought Moira was crazy until we hit 2020 and all of a sudden, the world went mad! Elise de Carvalho, Canada
** SNEAK PEAK **
2022 is the year of the planet Venus - She will have you save instead of spend to prepare you for 2023’s financial changes
REGISTER HERE - MOIRABUSHACADEMY.TEACHABLE.COM
HAVE YOU BEEN SEEING NUMBER COMBOS LATELY? ONLINE COURSE
$97
DECODE THE HIDDEN MESSAGES IN NUMBER SEQUENCES THAT DRIVE YOU DILLY! In this online course you will learn a unique way of decoding the hidden messages in the numbers that repeat over and over again at specific times in your life. Your instructor, Moira Bush, includes teachings from the Colour Mirrors system which makes this course extremely unique. Each number has a corresponding colour or colour combination that deepens your messages with guidance from your soul. ***BONUS - you can use the information in your course to help your friends and family who are also driven crazy by repeating number sequences. Scan to Register
Moira explains in depth about the levels of Ascension and how the numbers are associated with it. Ruth McCarthy, Ireland I’ve always seen number sequences and never knew the meaning behind them. “Using the Messages in Numbers course I’ve been able to gain insight into what my soul is alerting me to. Joanne Arjoon, Canada
** SNEAK PEAK **
77:77 says you are being held back as the timing is not yet right for you 44 says consider moving or changing the space you live and work in 111 says to take up a leadership role for a cause or community
REGISTER HERE - MOIRABUSHACADEMY.TEACHABLE.COM
AR E L
inc
JUDY WEINBERG +1 416.801.3846 • INFO@GRAF IKESSEN TIALS.CO M supporting clients with creative solutions and exceptional customer service
TI
CO
M
ON
e v i t a e r c C
Scan for Website
MUNICA
The Gold Book April 2022 • 41
BY SHERRY BROUZES OWNER, SHERRY BROUZES FENG SHUI 10 Years in the business
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
FENG SHUI DESIGN
42 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Feng Shui and the Power of
GOLD Since ancient times, in Feng Shui and Chinese culture, gold has been equated with wealth, abundance, power, divine energy, magnetism, and alchemy.
Chinese culture believed that the five elements reflect the universe, and every colour symbolizes the five-element theory in Feng Shui. The five elements are Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood. In Feng Shui, the Air element is not a part of this cycle, yet Chi” is carried by the wind, which is the movement of air. Gold is a prime colour of the metal element in Feng Shui. This is because gold mirrors the sun’s magnetic yang energy, making it the most precious of all metals in Feng Shui. In addition, metal (gold) can create water. Water activates wealth and prosperity in Feng Shui. When metal is heated and then cools off, condensation forms creating water droplets; thus, metal produces water, a potent element in Feng Shui. This was considered a form of alchemy in ancient times. Gold is associated with the North West gua of the Feng Shui Bagua, known as “big metal,” and is the most Yang area of the Bagua. Therefore, the North West, known as “Helpful People and Travel” gua, is a perfect area to display gold items and objects to activate Yang Chi. Furthermore, the North West gua is also home of “Heaven’s Gate,” a place to keep decluttered and beautiful to call in heavenly Chi in your home or space. Gold Chi’ is equated with Heavenly Chi’, when activated, brings divine assistance, good luck, favourable destiny and fewer challenges in your life. Furthermore, gold was significant in ancient Chinese rituals, politics and many practices because of its association with spirituality. For example, emperors wore gold cloaks adorned with golden dragons to display their power, wisdom and divinity. The North West gua is associated with the season of Autumn. Even nature shows of its beautiful glowing golden colours with the changing of the leaves and foliage in the cooler months.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 43
How can we activate our home, business or office with
GOLD
CHI?
Typical Feng Shui gold items used commonly in Feng Shui:
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10
Place a gold toad near your front door to accumulate wealth. Gold wealth ship filled with gold coins placed in the South East of your home, the “Wealth and Prosperity” area of the Bagua Place an ‘arowana’ fish in your home known as the ‘golden dragon’ by the Chinese. Gold-coloured laughing Buddha will activate happy and prosperous Chi. Hang gold coins on a red ribbon in sets of 3 or 9 on your front doorknob or for discretion under your welcome mat. Add gold where auspicious Flying Stars’ fly in’ annually according to Classical Feng Shui. Wear gold jewelry on your person.
Carry a gold wallet or handbag. (Law of attraction) Hang artwork with golden frames in your bedroom to activate good health and success. Display gold angels to call in Divine Chi into your life.
Gold Ingots:
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Give gold as a gift of gratitude to someone special in your life. Add gold-coloured crystals in your space, such as citrine, carnelian and tiger’s eye. Place square gold items in the center of your home, room or desk to ground your energy. Square shapes represent grounding energy. Add gold coloured pulls and knobs to doors in kitchen décor. Gold coloured lamps, vases and statues in gold bring in shining auspicious Chi energy. Fill an aquarium or fish bowl with goldfish.
Use gold-coloured dishes and gold table wear for dining. Wear the colour gold to an important meeting or date. Use warm gold colours in the bedroom for bedding. Gold towels in the bathroom for a spa like wealthy feeling.
These symbolize wealth in traditional Feng Shui. For example, you can make these yourself to bring in golden Chi and wealth to your home or space. Landscapers and garden nurseries sell all types and sizes of rocks and boulders for our gardens. A fun way to activate prosperity into your home is to paint rocks and boulders the colour of gold and make little mounds of your own “gold” riches. For example, you can spray river rocks gold and create a “dry river” in your garden, which will shine and call-in auspicious yang golden Chi and Zen into your life. Feng Shui is the art of placement enriching and balancing Chi’ to promote our well-being in life. Everything is composed of energy. Energy (Chi’) can be transformed and shifted. Therefore, by placing gold items of pure gold or the colour of gold in and around our homes, we can activate yang energy with intent and law of attraction to stimulate auspicious Chi into our lives. The colour of gold is an invaluable asset we can use to balance the energies for our personal Chi and environment. The colour of gold is as precious as the metal illuminating how we can all shine with the divine energy in each and every one of us.
The Gold Book January 2022 • 45
BY SONAL RAJE OWNER, BLUE AMBER ARTS 30 Years in the business
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
FINE ARTS
46 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Tempered by
Gold: the precious metal, a standard of highest quality or achievement, and the colour that embodies our authentic power. A power that is abundant and purposeful. How do we come to own or discover this power? We have heard the famous quote by William Shakespeare, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” I was given the name “Sonal” by my parents. The meaning of Sonal in my Indian origin is “Golden”. So the standard was literally thrust upon me at birth! Born in a family of talented artists, given this name to live up to and every support to follow my passion of learning art, I rode the gentle waves of success on my artistic path for a long time. But wait, gold has to go through a tempering by fire to be revealed in the purest form. Similarly, we need to go through a tempering of our base self to be revealed as a spiritual self. This tempering in my artistic journey was through many challenges, physical and emotional. The fire burnt away all the unnecessary chaos and confusion, revealing the purest form of inspiration.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 47
Artists are required to have their artist statement or mission statement, and expected to have a signature style that is as unique as it is personal. I found my mission and a style that resonated closely after this tempering. In terms of art style and career path, the change was drastic and visible, tangible. I moved to a more abstract style of expression and worked with frequency and energy of colour. I was painting moods, emotions and I was inspired to teach art in a way that balanced energy through mindful use of colour. In the context of the energy centers or chakras within our physical bodies, Gold is the colour that combines the creativity and water energy of the Sacral chakra and the wisdom and fire energy of the solar plexus chakra. A mix of orange and yellow. A good piece
48 • United Colours of Design Magazine
of art is a culmination of creative inspirations and wisely crafted techniques. More often than not I find myself using gold in my paintings, in the form of accent strokes, bold patches, gold leaf, or even pouring the colour directly on the canvas, sprinkling gold crystals or dust. Using powerful colour can give you a little taste of the alchemy of creating the actual mineral. Suddenly there is a sense of opulence and authenticity in the expression. The best examples of an extravagant use of gold in art can be seen in Gustav Klimt’s works during his “Golden Period” (1862-1918). The richness of the gilded gold was his signature style. His famous paintings “The Kiss” and “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” can be good examples of his way of using gold.
The best examples of an extravagant use of gold in art can be seen in Gustav Klimt’s works during his “Golden Period” (1862-1918). The richness of the gilded gold was his signature style. His famous paintings “The Kiss” and “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” can be good examples of his way of using gold. But the change within me was the real transformation. I can now say with confidence that I have found my purpose as a creator, and can give value to my art and teaching. Every artist strives to present that perfect solution to a challenge faced by the society, be it personal or communal. The programs I have developed are through the inspirations that were an integral part of the tempering process. So I think the only real way towards greatness or abundance is through achievement, accomplished with the tempering through the fire of life experiences.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 49
BY ANNIKA RAYMAN OWNER, ANNIMATIONS MAKE UP 10 Years in the business
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
MAKE UP DESIGN
Creative Credit All make-up in this column’s photos is by Annimations MakeUp’s head MUA Jay Balki who uses gold in creative and stunning ways.
50 • United Colours of Design Magazine
The wisdom and magic of
GOLD As a person of South Asian diaspora descent, the Gold issue of this magazine was very important for me to be a part of. The metal gold is an integral and irreplaceable facet of our culture and customs regardless of religion/beliefs, and its beautiful metallic yellow colour does lend it some of yellow’s attributes. But Gold is unique – it is the colour of things that are elevated; whether that be wealth, knowledge or interpersonal understanding. The wisdom and magic of the ages is said to be passed down in the energy bestowed by each wearer into gold pieces of jewelry or heirlooms, as the metal is known to harness metaphysical traces of
its forbearers. Gold is sacred, and is a gift from the universe in its world-renowned beauty and power. Many cultures revered this substance long predating globalization or even cross-border trade. It is no surprise that the use of gold in beauty is also universal. In this edition’s article, I wish for the power and beauty of gold to speak for itself, as it has for millennia. Here we focus on viewing the use of gold across a multitude of skin tones, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions and event themes to appreciate its versatility and wide acceptance in our industry. Enjoy!
The Gold Book April 2022 • 51
52 • United Colours of Design Magazine
The Gold Book April 2022 • 53
BY LUMA QUSUS AWAD FOUNDER/DESIGNER, INAMULLUMANI 20 Years in the business
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
JEWELRY DESIGN
54 • United Colours of Design Magazine
An Interview with:
DJIVAN YERAMIAN Crafting Joy
I met Jivan in Montreal through a mutual friend. I visited him in his studio located in the heart of downtown Montreal. Jivan took me on a tour and showed me the different work stations where he creates his elegant, fine jewellery. Let’s get to know more about this amazing jeweler...
About Djivan (Jivan) Yeramian Owns and operates a custom fine jewelry studio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He specializes in rings that can make a statement no matter it’s size and value. He offers personalized jewelry services and expert advice to his clients around the world. You can connect with Jivan here:
The Gold Book April 2022 • 55
Jivan’s own story stems from a long family tradition of craftsmanship and art. He was an avid artist and designer even during his early years, and he knew his calling was in the wonderful world of jewelry. After finishing school in 2000, he moved from his native Syria to France to perform an apprenticeship with his uncle, a master diamond setter. Soon after, he had the opportunity to work in Greece for the world-renowned Diamond Club, whose jewelry is considered as some of
the most exquisite around the world. Over the past two decades, Jivan’s hunger for in-depth knowledge caused him to become an Accredited Jewelry Professional. He also received a Diamond Graduate Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, and is recognized as the world’s #1 authority in gemology. Jivan continued to refine his craft, providing professional diamond-setting services to some of the most reputable jewelry companies throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Canada.
Choosing the right jewelry starts with finding the right jeweller. When did you discover your love for jewellery? My love for jewelry started after moving to France and becoming an apprentice to my uncle who was in the jewelry business as a master diamond setter. I always loved art. Ever since I was a little boy, I spent most of my childhood doing painting and sculpture. My father was a huge influence, he collected art and antiques so I grew up surrounded with beautiful artwork that helped develop my artistic tastes even more. What is the metal you use in creating your jewellery and why? I mostly use 14k and 18k gold, yellow and rose for coloured gemstone jewelry , and white gold for diamond jewelry. I don’t have a preferred colour and karat, I just choose the best match. According to gemstones colour and hardness. Also, l let my clients choose their favorite gold colour when customizing a piece. Some coloured gemstones like rubies and emeralds need soft and warm yellow gold, unlike diamonds that match best with white gold due to its hardness and colourless nature. How has this career transformed your life? It has really transformed both my business and personal life. I get to enjoy my creative work and live my passion. It also allows me to meet so many wonderful people and leave a positive impact in their lives. What is the best part about your job? Being creative most of the time and meeting wonderful people from clients to business associates. Also being part of the couple’s most memorable celebrations, through engagement, wedding, and anniversaries celebrations.
56 • United Colours of Design Magazine
You mention “crafting happiness “ in your bio, tell us more about that. I chose “Crafting happiness” as a slogan and it became our true mission and purpose. In the end it’s all about our clients happiness and that means to feel happy working with us, wearing our jewelry and enjoying their experience. You are well-traveled and have lived in many countries. How has this experience influenced your designs? And how would you describe your collections? Throughout my travels I met great craftsmen who taught me some unique skills. My collections are inspired by the Orient and the Mediterranean. I love picking motifs and colours from both worlds because I feel they have their own energy and character. What advice would you give to someone looking to buy or sell gold jewellery? My advice to anyone shopping for fine jewelry is to choose a jeweller that has a great reputation, exquisite taste, and a warm personality, that makes buying or selling a lot easier and more fun. Choosing the right jewelry starts with finding the right jeweller. Learn to look for value and not just price. Quality always beats quantity even in jewelry. Find out what makes a piece of jewelry truly valuable and only then make your final choice.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 57
Scan for Website
DISCOVER THE
BEHIND YOUR BRAND.
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTACT I AMY BELL I +1 647.830.8485 AMY.BARROSO@WHITELIGHTNINGCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
OFFICIAL DESIGN FIRM FOR UNITED COLOURS OF DESIGN MAGAZINE
The Copper Book January 2021 • 59
BY KATHERINE COTT CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER & CO-FOUNDER ADVERTIISE
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
ADVERTISING
60 • United Colours of Design Magazine
THE GOLD STANDARD When we hear the word “GOLD” our minds instantly recognize this luxurious hue as a top tier level of achievement. Whether you’ve won a race, or perhaps an Oscar nomination you have been honoured for your accomplishment with a GOLD award. CONGRATULATIONS! You have hit the highest apex of success.
In the Advertiise world, there is a similar GOLD standard when we look at creative messaging. As Artisans and Small/Medium Enterprise (SME’s), it’s okay to be proud of your accomplishments. This is your time to draw attention to yourselves. We are living in a world of information overload. It’s a constant race between advertisers on how to effectively engage and captivate the consumer market. Let’s take Coke vs Pepsi as an example. It’s one of the oldest creative races of our time and it’s still in play today. They have both shifted their messaging over the decades to inspire and influence consumers of all generations. Both have won GOLD creative awards. To give you an idea of how much our daily consumption of messaging has changed, in 1970 the average person engaged with 5001600 ads per day, 2007 it was an estimated 5,000 ads per day, fast forward to 2022 with the
average engagement 6,000 – 10,000 ads EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. That is absolutely CRAZY! I bet you’re left pondering, How is this even possible? Are there enough hours in my day? The answer is YES! Enter the ever-expanding connected world with the addition of new viable media channels to reach your audience. As a marketer, we are active participants alongside our clients (much like a Coach to an Athlete) as we strategize on how to win the mindsets of the consumer using GOLD standard inspiring, and unique creative messaging. It often starts with a visualization exercise. Channel that inner GOLD confidence. Athletes do it, Artisans do it, and SME’s should understand the techniques of visualization - it is extremely powerful. Three questions to think about: What is your current state of business? Where do you want to go? Who are you competing with for a share of voice? Based on these three questions alone, we open up an abundance of GOLDEN intel we can use to formulate our inspiring creative messaging following these 4 simple tips.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 61
4 GOLD STANDARD TIPS ON HOW TO CRAFT INSPIRING, CREATIVE MESSAGING
1
Memorable: Great ads must be memorable! It’s YOUR time to show the world that your product or service has arrived. You only get one chance to make an impactful first impression. Today’s attention span of the average consumer is between 8-15 seconds. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to squeeze in all your messaging within this timeframe however the first 8-15seconds should start with an “AH HA” moment. Be charismatic, capture the consumer right from the start. It is true that messages containing humour, shock and awe, and irreverence are deemed more memorable, so let your creative juices flow.
62 • United Colours of Design Magazine
2
Shareworthy: People like to be told stories. This is your opportunity to tell your ideal consumer about yourself and your offerings.
This is the time to be your authentic self. When emotions are evoked. A sense of trust and affinity are created and you are relatable to your ideal consumer. People also like to share aspirational messages and experiences via their social communities both on and off line.
GOLD is the hue of abundance and prosperity. If you follow these 4 GOLDEN tips to create inspiring messaging you are sure to win the creative race and you don’t have to run this race alone. When it comes to writing and producing great creative there are many talented freelancers ready to jump in and run with us to build GOLD winning content.
3
Value: You will win the creative race if you can communicate your value proposition in a powerful format. GOLD is the hue of sophistication. How do you use this mindset to influence your consumer is fairly straightforward. Are you solving their problem? Are you saving them money? Are you saving them time? Are you offering an exceptional one of a kind product or service? Enlighten your audience with what you have that benefits them like no one else. After all, you are the best at what you do.
4
Invitation: In marketing terms this is referred to as “the call to action” How do you want your consumer to interact with you? Remember 6,00010,000 ads per day to an average consumer is information overload. You made it across the finish line by grabbing the limited attention of your ideal consumer with your inspiring creative messaging. Now it’s time to invite them to really connect with you. Be straight up and to the point. Are you offering a limited amount of space to an event, or perhaps you have limited inventory available to sell? Please book in now or contact me here.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 63
BY MOIRA BUSH, FOUNDER, MOIRA BUSH ACADEMY & AMY BELL, WHITE LIGHTNING COMMUNICATIONS COLOURS OF
BUSINESS Scan for Website
WATCH OUR NEW SHOW! Thursdays at 10:00 am Eastern (5:00 pm UK, 7:00 am Pacific)
LIVE
Join us as we discuss the colour and numerology energy behind well-known company’s brands. Each week we spotlight an entrepreneur and a lucky viewer can win a free live assessment of their business colours and brand. Join our Facebook Group to watch: @United Colours of Design TV 64 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Colours Behind
THE BRAND Case
Case Studies
Studies
You’ll never look at these logos the same again!
The season for Oscars and all things gold! As this article is being written, preparations are underway for the 94th annual Oscars on 27th March 2022. Power of the Dog, Dune and Don’t Look Up are amongst the editors favourites for Best Picture. Licorice Pizza by Metro Goldwyn Mayer & United Artists Releasing, is also in the Best Picture category. MGM has won 177 Oscars, 12 for Best Picture.
Pythagorean Numerology Chart 1 A J S
2 B K T
3 C L U
4 D M V
5 E N W
6 F O X
7 G P Y
8 H Q Z
9 I R
The charts on the following pages, created by Moira, are a snippet of the process we use to generate the foundational information about a company. We use the Pythagorean numerology system to get our numbers and then we convert those numbers to colours using the Colour Mirrors system. Colour Mirrors is a system of energy-infused oil bottles that contain a top and bottom colour fraction. Each bottle has a message that relates to a person’s or business’ conscious and unconscious patterns. When colour and numbers are combined we can begin to build the story!
The Gold Book April 2022 • 65
MGM is named after three companies which were combined in 1924 by Marcus Loew. They were Metro Pictures, Samuel Goldwyn Productions, and Louis B. Mayer Productions. From the 1920s through World War II, MGM was the largest movie studio in Hollywood. Now known for movies as well as TV series that include
the famous Bond 007 Franchise and The Handmaid’s Tale. MGM was known for being home to ‘more stars than the heavens’. But perhaps, the most well known star of MGM is its gold lion who strangely enough fits into the story of the numerology around this brand.
It’s all about the
GOLDEN LION
The first lion called Slats was in the logo for Goldwyn Pictures from 1916 to 1924. The second lion Jackie became famous for his roar when sound pictures were first made, he went on to star in Tarzan movies. Coffee, Tanner and then several Leo’s were amongst 11 lions working for MGM. The 12th lion is now a CGI version loosely based on the last Leo and marking the end of an era, perhaps fitting as ownership of MGM’s vast catalogue of movies has now passed onto Amazon’s digital streaming service. The symbolism of a lion represents power and royalty - the king of the jungle. What is interesting to note about this logo is that the complementary colour to the gold is royal blue and features in the numerology of the MGM name as well. But first let us look at the consonants and work our way back to the story of the lion!
Please join us during April on the show, Colours Behind the Brand where Amy and Moira discuss this brand in more detail including ‘Ars Gratia Artis’ - Art for Arts Sake and the double appearance of the 66 • United of Design Magazine numberColours 17!
The Consonants as the marketing message of MGM The ’66’ is the G15 Solid Gold and Magenta bottle, and in Colour Mirrors has often been nicknamed the ‘Millionaires Bottle’. Entrepreneurs who are destined to be very successful choose this bottle as Gold represents wealth, fame and accolades achieved by doing what they love, represented by Magenta the colour of service and the pursuit of a soul purpose.
opportunities peak when the Sun is in Leo (July 23 & August 22) and the star Sirius moves closer to Earth and aligns with Orion’s belt. The official lucky date is 8th August and this number 8 sums up the MGM name and the reason for its longevity and success; 8 is the number of abundance and the number 17 is literally to wish upon a star. It is mind boggling how a gold logo, a golden lion symbolizing the royal king of the jungle, the gold complementary colour Royal Blue in 23 and its Lion’s Gateway, meets the 17 star bottle and depicts a brand that produced movie stars!
The 66 becomes a 12 which is Violet and Red mixed, in CM this bottle is called Heaven on Earth. So It was literally written in the stars that the projects that come from this brand MGM would be a grand success, a mega promises satisfaction on all levels, they will #23 corporation. Its founding date sealed make you feel good (violet) and offer value (red). #8 the process that was to become the MGM The 66 and 12 combine to ensure this brand stays noticed, enticing and valued. Then the 12 becomes legacy, founded on 17 April 1924: a 3, and we have coral Jupiter as its final destination 17 28 10 1 message in marketing: we are big, we are bold, we are powerful, we are original, we are the best. The Lion’s Gateway The vowels totalling 23 is royal blue and here we go back to the lions - this bottle represents what is called the Lion’s Gateway. Amongst astrologers, it is said that
1+7+0+4+1+9+2+4 = 28 New Beginnings, 2+8 = 10 Wheel of Fortune and 1+0 = 1, The Sun which has proven to be the Leo-Lion power behind the MGM brand. The Gold Book April 2022 • 67
BY MARION SADAVOY CAREER DEVELOPMENT COACH NEW YORK UNIVERSITY & PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
68 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Reach for
GOLD Get past feelings of Self Doubt and recognize your personal worth, wisdom, and expertise. Impostor syndrome is a feeling that many people have endured, and not surprisingly the numbers have increased tremendously during the Pandemic. One of the main issues with Impostor Syndrome is it can hold us back from advancing in our careers. By tackling intense feelings of self-doubt and designing a path to recognize your professional wisdom you can turn things around. Let’s look at the steps you can take to improve your self-confidence and transform all of your experience into an increase in income. What is impostor syndrome and how does one get past it? Impostor Syndrome has been defined as ‘the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.’ It is pernicious and can hold you back from going after your goals. Impostor syndrome can occur regardless of your socio-
economic status, education, experience, or accomplishments. Often, people who suffer from these feelings of self-doubt are high achievers who end up working harder than others, and set ever higher standards. Dr. Lisa Orbé-Austin, is the author of “Own Your Greatness: Overcome Impostor Syndrome, Beat Self-Doubt, and Succeed in Life.” She shares that a key contributor to feeling self-doubt is the label we receive in childhood. For example, you may have been labeled as “the smart one” growing up, yet you don’t believe you can meet expectations. This is often observed in people who work in highly competitive fields such as medicine or the Arts.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 69
HOW TO DEAL WITH
IMPOSTOR SYNDROME
Impostor syndrome, although very real for those who suffer from it, is not recognized as a disorder. Identifying the feelings and changing how you respond can help you get in front of them, so they don’t hold you back. Valerie Young, author of “The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Impostor Syndrome” said “The goal is not to never feel like an impostor again”. “The goal is to have the tools to talk yourself down faster when you have a normal impostor moment.” Here is a collection of tips shared by Dr. Lisa Orbé-Austin and Valerie Young, to help you overcome impostor syndrome, and manage impostor-like feelings. 1. NORMALIZE YOUR IMPOSTOR FEELINGS When you step into a new situation or face a new challenge, it is normal to feel some self-doubt. 2. REFRAME YOUR THINKING Reframe your thinking and focus on your strengths. Change your self-talk to a more positive tone. Encourage yourself by saying things such as “This is a great opportunity for me to learn new ideas. Anything I don’t know how to do, I will figure out.” 3. RECORD YOUR SUCCESSES Write down your successes as you move through your week and review them at the end of each month. 4. TAKE TIME FOR SELF-CARE Be sure to do things that make you feel good about yourself mentally, physically and spiritually
5. TEAM SUPPORT Create a team of people who care about you and can remind your of how capable you are, when you’re feeling like an impostor. If you’re feeling severe anxiety, consider seeing a mental health professional for extra support. 6. DON’T BE STOPPED BY FEARS AND IMPOSTOR FEELINGS Take a risk, push yourself a little further and step out of your comfort zone. This act can propel you into feeling confident again. Remember, playing small may not only affect you, but also those around you including your family, friends and community. Shake off those doubts and show the world what you are capable of achieving.
HAVING THE MONEY TALK
WITH CONFIDENCE
A common byproduct of self-doubt is not asking for a raise, or not pricing your independent work properly. Here are some helpful steps to follow when preparing to ask for a raise, as sited on Ca.Indeed.com: 1. CHOOSE AN APPROPRIATE TIME TO ASK. Consider the financial health of the company, your manager’s workload and the time of year.
2. RESEARCH SALARY TRENDS. Find out what other people earn in a similar position. Check out the national average salary and consider your location, years of experience, greatest accomplishments, specialized skills, time with the company, level of education and certification. Lastly, consider the cost of living adjustment. 3. SCHEDULE A MEETING in a private setting, either by video or behind closed doors 4. PREPARE WHAT TO SAY. Be gracious. Share your recent accomplishments and contributions 5. TREAT THE DISCUSSION SERIOUSLY. Approach it with the same level of seriousness as an important presentation; dress accordingly. 6. BE READY FOR FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS about your accomplishments or the salary research you’ve done. Also, be prepared for some negotiation. If a raise is not possible, learn why and consider requesting other types of compensation, such as additional vacation time. 7. THANK YOUR MANAGER and send a follow-up email that summarizes the reasons for, and details of your request. This will help your manager if they need to ask someone else about your raise. It will also be a good record of your conversation, should you need to revisit it in the future.
PRICING FOR FREELANCERS As a freelance creative you may find it challenging to determine what to charge for your work. The most basic way of determining what to charge is by comparing your services to others doing similar work, in your area. Additionally, you can look at these resources to help you: HelloBonsai.com, www.waveapps.com, New York Freelance Rates (from Creative Circle), Australia Freelance Rates (from iknowho), UK Freelance Rates (from Major Players) No matter how you make a living, remember to be confident in who you are and all that you can offer!
The Gold Book April 2022 • 71
BY DWAYNE RICHARDS, CPA OWNER, THE ENLIGHTENED ACCOUNTANT Accounting tips for the creative business owner Colour Conversations with Entrepreneurs from Around
THE WORLD Scan for Contact Info
72 • United Colours of Design Magazine
An Interview with:
JUNE MORROW Authentic Connections. Who is June Morrow? I am a consultant and a strategist. I work with transformational coaches and consultants. I help them step out of isolation and into more authentic connections with people. I do this
by helping them with communications, messaging, and marketing. My goal is to help people create content, programs, and businesses that inspire them as much as they inspire their audiences.
June Morrow helps emerging life coaches step out of isolation and into more authentic connections with marketing, messaging, and communications that inspire them and their audiences.
over transactions, and acting with integrity over following the herd.
An award-winning speaker, she has over 20 years of experience including strategic planning, copy-writing, web design, social media management, video production, and communications training.
Watch The 5 Money-Blocking Mistakes Coaches and Course Creators Make (And What to Do Instead): bit.ly/money-blockers
She believes in authentic expression over manipulation, relationships
Learn more at JuneMorrow.com
Book your free Marketing Roadmap Session
The Gold Book April 2022 • 73
Why is it important that your clients be inspired? Years ago, I worked in corporate communications. I remember learning if you’re bored with what you’re writing, what do you think is going to happen with your audience, your emotions come through, in what you share in your communications, in your words, in your style. If you’re not interested in it, or if you’re holding back, your audience is going to feel. “Your business solves problems. The problems that it solves are probably a problem a person feels really alone with right now.” Questions to ask yourself: • • •
Why are you doing what you’re doing? What is the difference that you want to make in the world? What’s the change that you can help people within their lives?
What is your purpose? Helping people feel less alone. I believe my purpose on earth is to inspire people. Just being me with all the crazy life choices, and the way I communicate. “It is about making people feel less alone.” I remember when I first came to you, I felt, Oh, my gosh, my finances are a mess and I am not making money, I was embarrassed about it. You made me feel less alone. And it was really transformative for me and that’s why I love working with you.
What were your early beliefs around money? “Money comes and money goes.” My early beliefs about money were twofold. One that there’s never enough, and two that it’s important to save. For my parents it was important to not go into debt.They saved their money and paid for everything upfront, except for their house. Because they were always saving, we didn’t have much. I always had this feeling there’s not enough money.
74 • United Colours of Design Magazine
How has your money story changed?
Who is your ideal client?
I think that I can create my own money story.
I absolutely love working with coaches, life coaches, business coaches, any kind of coach who is purpose-driven, they’re coming from a heart-centered space, maybe they’ve been through a transformation themselves, and they want to help other people with that same transformation. They’re not necessarily driven by profit. They’re driven by wanting to make an impact.
I’ve realized that sometimes it’s okay to go into debt, there’s good debt, there’s bad debt. Your life choices are what are important to you. At the end of the day, how you spend money, and how it creates the quality of life that you want is ultimately what’s most important. So here’s an example. I don’t own a home. But I have had a lot of experiences. I’ve invested a lot of money in education. I have two degrees and a college diploma, I’m constantly taking courses to improve myself. That’s where my money goes, into personal development, and that enriches my life. The other thing I’ve learned about money is about welcoming in more income, about having the capacity to receive and not being afraid to receive. How can I actually make more? How can I create more wealth for this world? In the process of doing that, how can I help other people, have more wealth in their life and not necessarily in monetary terms, but wealth in terms of feeling fulfilled, a wealth of connections, or wealth of feeling they’re living their purpose?
What does wealth mean to you? The ultimate form of wealth is when I can stand tall and say this is who I am. I’m not making apologies for it, I have value, and I am making a difference in this world.
What does authenticity mean for you? Authenticity is everything to me. I think it’s about being true to yourself. It’s about being true to your higher calling, the thing of your dreams. We spend the first half of our life putting on our masks. Then if we’re lucky, we spend the second half of our lives dropping all of that, and seeing what’s underneath. It’s what’s right for you what’s true to you and then expressing that and having the courage to express who you are. To be vulnerable, a huge part of authenticity is vulnerability.
What about courage? Courage isn’t the absence of fear. Courage is acting in spite of fear. We all have some inner voice that’s asking us to do something, to be more. When we get on that path, that’s when we have to walk through the fear, and in walking through the fear, you see who you are.
What is their pain? How do I get out there? They don’t want to bother people. It is a big red flag, they are blocking themselves and they are blocking their authentic connection. There are multiple things that are stopping them. One is, they have a fear of, being judged and they worry about what people will think. That is going to stop them from making connections. Your business doesn’t exist to fulfill your own interests and desires, it exists to solve a problem.
What is one of the five money-blocking mistakes most coaches make? Hiding behind technology, this is what it looks like. I’ll start my business when my website, and my branding is done. Learn more about the other blocks including the need for another certification.
Gold at the end of the rainbow. If you’re just starting your business, the first thing you need to do is to talk to people and find out what they need. That’s the first thing you need before you create anything. Talk to people. What is it that they need? Where are they struggling? How can you help them?
Don’t create, investigate! Don’t create, but ask and listen. Listening is the most important thing you can do as an entrepreneur. It’s gold.
Closing Thought Notice where you’re feeling resistance in your business, because that is an area for growth and if you move through it, that’s where you will find the treasures, like gold.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 75
BY SARA DI FLOW CO-FOUNDER, FLOW NETWORK 10 Years in the business
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
VISIBILITY
76 • United Colours of Design Magazine
This is a story of being totally
STRIPPED NAKED
The Gold Book April 2022 • 77
WHY? A journey of transformation and the challenges I faced in accepting who I came into this world to be, and what I hope to leave behind when I’m gone. This is a journey of unravelling thousands of generations of programming about what it means to be a woman, to be human and to be set free. Pretty soon after this photo was taken my world began to fall apart. Why? Because I needed to embody the intentions I set at this photoshoot, to be an anchor of a golden age. Gold represents transformation, presence and power. Transformation is like an alchemical process that takes something dense and heavy and makes it gold and light. Ascension is actually a journey of descending into the body and into a knowingness of the power our presence
has on earth. Anything not founded on integrity will crumble.
Everything in my world that did not hold to this gold standard I’d intended for myself came to the surface to be examined, transmuted and loved. Including my understanding of love itself. I had learned love was conditional. As with many humans, I suffered with body dysmorphia and many other insecurities, anxieties and traumas. I was constantly striving to be someone else, somewhere else, other than here and now, in my body and on this earth. I never felt allowed to simply be. I was constantly trying to fit in by looking outside myself for validation, direction, security and love. I was doing nothing but giving my power away and therefore I was completely out of touch with what being me even looked or felt like.
78 • United Colours of Design Magazine
To become gold one must take one’s power back and understand the responsibility that comes with stepping into that power. It took years of being in denial about the changes I knew, somewhere inside of me, I needed to make. As much as I wanted to disrupt the status quo and rewrite the story of being human, there was deep fear, guilt & shame. I was terrified of upsetting people I loved. At some level I knew claiming my power would disrupt my whole world. Up until recently I spent most of my time outside of my body, in my head and in the realities of the other people I was trying to please. Why? Because I was conditioned to believe that not disrupting the status quo was safe and loving. That belief was slowly killing my spirt and making me sick.
Because I needed to embody the intentions I set at this photoshoot, to be an anchor of a golden age. It took a few experiences of feeling deeply betrayed by people I loved to decide I needed to completely cut all ties with my past and abandon the life I knew, in order to save myself. Little by little I stripped away what no longer served me and my deeper needs. This set me up for a beautiful and messy identity crisis. Through this crisis, which some refer to as a dark night of the soul, I recovered my authentic power and learned that it is love. I learned what unconditional love is, and that it starts with me. I faced off with all the ways I had denied, suppressed and disowned my true nature. The journey of transformation has very little to do with outer appearance, goals or accomplishments. It’s about transforming inside and being completely present and self
aware of what’s longing to be seen deep below the surface. It’s about recovering our true essence and shining that out in the world. The deep journey through denial, betrayal, abandonment and crisis is what set me free. It’s how I began to embody who I was always meant to be. This is the glow of gold. A grace filled revealing of our soul’s greatest gift to the world. An integration of past experiences, fragmented parts that were once unloveable and inherit wisdom laying dormant beneath a protective shell. Through my process of reclamation, Flow Network was birthed. A Network and conscious community of new earth leaders, way-showers and creative professionals who have their own stories to tell and resources to share to support others through the messy and often lonely process of transformation.
As messy as transformation can be, it is a beautiful art. Life is a beautiful art, an ever evolving and expanding dance of pure potential, joy and pleasure. I believe our stories and visions are a survival guide for someone else and key to share and weave together in these times we are meant to thrive through. UbU - You be You, is the founding motto of this network and the radiant energy required to create a new world built on a solid integral foundation. When you are embodying the truth of your soul, freedom and joy will emanate naturally - and that is gold!
- @SaraDiFlow
The Gold Book April 2022 • 79
BY WHITNEY HAMMOND, CFP, CLU PRINCIPAL, SOVEREIGN WEALTH MANAGEMENT Implementing wealth building strategies for business owners and executives for 25 years
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
WEALTH
80 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Demystifying the alchemy of
BUILDING WEALTH Well you know what they say, “All that glitters is gold.” There seems to be a common theme that in order to strike gold and develop wealth, one must either call it right in the stock market or hit it big in a jackpot to make that overnight success. Not so. There truly is a magical way of building your riches. The Gold Standard in Investment Management: All that Glitters is NOT gold. Do we get distracted by shiny pennies and jump from one idea to another without focusing on one? Do we look at others and wish we had the same things they have? Are we all running so hard to keep up with the Joneses? We relate gold with riches. We imagine people with wealth to be superior, when really its all about financial empowerment. Developing wealth may not be so much about becoming powerful, its more so about having the freedom to have options and having the freedom of choice. These are quite powerful. Many of us consider people who generate wealth and gold riches to be magical alchemists. A simple definition of alchemy is taking something ordinary and creating something extraordinary, in a way that cannot be explained. Developing wealth can really look like a mystery to many. Let’s unpack this notion.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 81
The 6 gold nuggets you need to take your wealth from ordinary to
EXTRAORDINARY
Building wealth is done systematically over time. Yes, one dollar at a time. Consider opening an investment account, whether it be a savings account inside of your corporation, TFSA (Tax free savings account) or RRSP (registered retirement savings account.) We all need to start somewhere. I know, this feels like a mountain of work, and we will never get there. But I can assure you from experience, money magically grows. Once the seed it planted, it grows, and more money is attracted. There is alchemy in this equation. Ask anyone how they built their big nest egg, and they will share, “I started, and it just magically took off! Money literally started coming my way. I hopped on board, and consistently saved a percentage of what I made.”
Work with a coach or mentor.
Develop a wealth mindset.
Find someone, or ask to be referred to someone, who has “been there, done that.” I was so good at building wealth over the last four decades, that I decided 25 years ago to open an investment firm and teach others. I started with being mentored at a young age. Then I became an entrepreneur, strategizing to make myself profitable. I did not make a goal of survival, quite the contrary, I made a goal of developing significant wealth. It truly felt like a mountain in the beginning. I soon came to realize that we do not find our “pot of gold,” we build our “pot of gold” by systematically saving. Magically, this disciplined behavior created the ability to become an investor and here is where opportunities come to those who can invest.
I became a pilot 10 years ago. I very quickly learned there needs to be a direction and rudder for the nose of the plane to fly the course. This is the same with attracting and developing wealth. My thoughts continually lead me to wanting wealth for various reasons, the main one being freedom.
82 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Freedom allowed independence, which then lead to: • confidence • opportunity • leadership • giving • making a change • going on adventures, • flying (myself) to cool destinations And did I mention control? Yes control. It’s what my mind wanted, so the world alchemically opened it up to me.
Build a matrix. Creative entrepreneurs come up with endless business and marketing ideas. We must measure for success: What works? Where is there too much energy? Where do I need to apply more energy? A business matrix can be as simple as the 10-3-1 ratio Call 10 people to book 3 appointments to make 1 sale Set a target: 200 clients x $50 = $10,000 If you double your revenue? 200 clients x $100 =$20,000 Working on the numbers makes it reasonable to bring in the revenue to create an investor out of yourself. Next Target: 5 years x 200 clients is now 1000 clients x $100 = $100,000 Systematically build your client base, focus on a matrix and then create your client base. What we focus on, WILL show up. Measure the numbers, lay out the plan and then work it. It works if you work it.
Establish long term relationships with customers. When we develop relationships with our clients, we understand their needs, we know what keeps them awake at night, and we know how to make their lives better. The only thing constant in life, is change. When you meet your client at each stage of change, they KNOW you care, they KNOW you are there for them and they will continue to buy and refer other like-minded people to you. Customers for life. You nail this one down and “magically” you have created a thriving business.
Give, give and give again. • • •
Volunteer time Pick a favorite charity Spend time with a client without a sales idea • Collaborate and mentor others. Give of what was so freely given to you. Giving sparks transformation, it shows leadership, and it reaps rewards. Incomes go up when we give!
Back to the pot of gold... Build your business, service your clients, put money aside systematically each month, and increase the deposits regularly. Suddenly you will see, your pot of gold will be adding its own deposit each month, creating a snowball effect. Not only does your ordinary pot of gold become extraordinary, so does your life, your experiences become richer and richer. I cannot think of a more satisfying life of helping others, building financial freedom and being able to make decisions without limiting beliefs. The streets are paved with gold…. Use these gold nuggets and go out and live your extraordinary life!
NAVAJO
COL
UR
THERAPY An exercise in gold reproduced with permission from Moira Bush
84 • United Colours of Design Magazine
EXERCISE Wear Gold for seven days. • Journal what comes up... • How does it make you feel? • How do you find yourself speaking? • How do you find yourself behaving? • How do others react to you when you’re wearing gold? Notice the effect this colour has on them? How does it make them feel, speak, behave towards you?
Surround your space in gold. • Purchase some flowers and food in gold • Notice where you see gold in your life, your home, your office, other people’s homes, gardens etc. • Who do you know that relates to this colour? • Notice who in your life is mirroring this colour to you?
The Gold Book April 2022 • 85 Photo credit: The Creative Exchange
COLUMNIST CALL! Here’s your opportunity to become an integral part of this growing community. Become a columnist and lead, mentor and inspire up and coming creatives and designers! We have columns available for creative industry specialists and business growth experts who understand and work with creative business owners. Creative/Design Industry Columns Available*: • Culinary Artist • Art Therapists • Hair Designer/Colourist • Interior Designer • Graphic Designer Business Columns Available**: • Business Growth Expert • Instagram Specialist • Facebook Specialist • LinkedIn Specialist • YouTube Specialist • Business Coach
Scan for Website
*Please see page 89 for Art and Design submission details. *Industry columnists should have at least 10 -15 years experience, an up-to-date portfolio, writing experience, and the ability to commit to 4 issues over the next year. This is an opportunity to expand your business and influence your peers with your voice. There is no charge to participate in this magazine. **Business columnists should have a proven successful track record in their field of expertise along with 1015 years experience, writing experience and the ability to commit to 4 issues over the next year. This is an opportunity to expand your business with your voice.
Scan for Website
YOUR BRAND
STARTS HERE.
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTACT I AMY BELL I +1 647.830.8485 A M Y. B A R R O S O @ W H I T E L I G H T N I N G C O M M U N I C AT I O N S . C O M
OFFICIAL DESIGN FIRM FOR UNITED COLOURS OF DESIGN MAGAZINE
Book your private virtual appointment with one of our exclusive design consultants today.
Newmarket, Ontario • P: 905.235.2284 www.ripplesbb.ca • Where function meets design
Scan for Website
ARE YOU CALLED TO WORK WITH THE COLOUR YELLOW?
SUBMIT YOUR WORK FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE COMING 01.07.2022 After you read the positive aspects of yellow and what yellow can help heal, I invite you to look at your previous work in a new light. Or if you are choosing to create something specific for the yellow edition it would be interesting to hear how it felt for you to work with it. Questions to think about: • Why did you work with yellow? • What was in your heart when you were designing or painting or creating with yellow? • Did you choose it for a particular reason? • Did it sooth you or anger you? • Do you have to be in a particular mood to use yellow? • What was happening in your life at the time you created with yellow? • If you were designing for a client, why do you think they chose this colour? • Do you try to talk clients out of using yellow? Whether you are working on your own design or you’re being commissioned to create for someone else, pay attention to these aspects and feel into what’s happening while you spend time with this colour.
Positive aspects of Yellow: • Joy • Optimistic • Analytical • Logical • Academic • Intellectual • Bright • Sunny Negative aspects/What gold can help heal: • Unemotional • Confusion • Stress • Allergies • Eating Disorders • ADHD • Nervousness • Critical • Rebel Do you see yourself in these aspects? Try working with the colour yellow and see what comes up for you. We want you to create and journal how you relate to yellow.
Submission details: • • • • •
Who can submit? Artists, Designers or Creatives of any kind! Must only submit your original work, no submitting on someone else’s behalf please Read the above article in full before deciding to submit Your work should embody the description above, can use other colours but yellow should be highlighted Use the submission form at the link below.
Significant dates • • •
Submission form opens May 1, 2022 Deadline for submission: June 1, 2022 Publication date: July 1, 2022
Visit the link below to submit your work: https://unitedcoloursofdesignmag.com/submit-your-work
Scan to Submit
COACHES
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Jennifer Love
Judy Weinberg
Intimacy Coach
Owner, Graphic Designer Grafik Essentials
I help creative professionals connect to their inner depths of inspiration by removing the unconscious blocks to intimacy within themselves.
I help creative professionals by providing collaborative design services specializing in branding, logos, marketing/social media collateral and training material.
Email: jennifer.loveyourlife@gmail.com Book a confidential discovery session: http://calendly.com/jenniferloveyourlife/60min Kathryn Dzsudzsak “Blue”
Life and Business Visionary The Blue Hair Medium I assist creative professionals by helping them break through their blocks so they can design their perfect mosaic in life or business with clarity and confidence.
inc
HYPNOTHERAPY Samantha Timbers
Owner, Simple Wellness NLP Practitioner, Hypnotherapist, Creator of Redesign Your Life After 40 Program
Phone No. +1 226.387.3878 Email: thebluehairmedium@gmail.com Website: TheBlueHairMedium.com IG Handle: @the_blue_hair_medium
I help creatives remove their limiting beliefs and step into their success and full on joy.
Email: samantha@simple-wellness.ca Website: Simple-Wellness.ca
Sonal Raje
Artist, Blue Amber Arts I work with individuals and business professionals teaching how colour and the five senses can target and unlock what’s blocking you, balance energy, reduce stress and increase success.
INTERIOR DESIGN Sherry Brouzes
Owner & Feng Shui Consultant Sherry Brouzes Feng Shui I help creatives design a supportive and positive environment where they can thrive to attain their aspirations in life by implementing the ancient art and science of Feng Shui.
Phone No. +1 519.994.7916 Email: blueamberarts@gmail.com Website: BlueAmberArts.com FB Handle: @blueamberarts
Phone No. +1 289.820.5116 Email: SherryLBrouzes@gmail.com Website: SherryBrouzesFengShui.net FB Handle: @sherrybrouzesfengshui
EDUCATION Amy Bell
Come Study Colour With Me Teacher, Colour Mirrors System I help creative professionals create an additional stream of income through a continuing education program using the psychology and energy of colour.
INSTITUTE
Phone No. +1 647.830.8485 Apply Here: https://r5glmp6m65x. typeform.com/study-colour
Email: judy@grafikessentials.com Website: www.grafikessentials.com IG Handle: @grafikessentials
COLLABORATION STATION PRICING One-time Insertion print:
99
$
07
Click here to purchase
MAKE UP SERVICES Annika Rayman
Owner, AnnimationsMkUp I help creatives present themselves to the world in new and exciting ways using the power of Make Up Design, catapulting themselves into a new realm of self expression and owning their Brand.
Phone No. +1 647.531.2686 Email: info@annimationsmkup.com Website: AnnimationsMkUp.com IG Handle: @annimationsmkup
PROOF READING Command Z Proofreading, LLC Marni Strancar
I help graphic and web designers perfect their creative content through meticulous proofreading services.
Email: marni@commandzproofreading.com Website: CommandZProofreading.com
WEALTH BUILDING Whitney Hammond, CFP, CLU
CEO, Sovereign Wealth Management I help creative Professionals move from starving to thriving by showing them how to create wealth, how to save wealth and how to pass some wealth to help others.
Phone No. +1 905.637.3500 x 224 Email: whitney@sovereignwealth.ca Website: SovereignWealth.ca FB Handle: @whitney.k.hammond
Four insertions paid in full (Save $97.23) print & forever insertion in online directory:
29905
$
Click here to purchase
Coming together is a beginning, Staying together is progress, and working together is success. Henry Ford
Join our online collaboration directory today. One-time payment!
$34
Includes 1 category. $7 for each additional category
unitedcoloursofdesignmag.com
New for Season 2!
Community Events Calendar Teaching a Class? Facilitating a Workshop? Having an Artshow? Putting on a Concert? Add your upcoming event to our online calendar. It’s free and easy. 1. Visit our website www.unitedcoloursofdesignmag.com 2. Click the Events tab 3. Add your details
The Gold Book April 2022 • 93
BY CRYSTAL EVES
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
ASTROLOGY EARLY 2022
94 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Crouching
PLANETS Kicking ECLIPSES Astrology, although often thought of as a dozen one-dimensional personality traits, is actually a robust craft that relates events in the sky to life on Earth. It is a rich, symbolic language that is usually conveyed through the use of metaphors and a fair bit of astro-jargon. But, if you’d like a simple way to experience what astrologers understand about the second quarter of 2022, I invite you to try the following exercise. Find a spacious area in which to stand, and then assume a crouched position. Make
yourself as small as possible, contracting all of your muscles, squinting your eyes shut, tensing your face and breathing in a shallow manner. Then slowly, ever so slowly, begin to relax and expand. Gently rise to a standing position while releasing the tension in your face and muscles. Open your stance, extend your arms up and out. Tilt your head to gaze upward, and open your eyes and mouth as wide as you can. Finally, take a deep satisfying breath in, before expelling your breath in a long, slow, calm exhale. That, dear readers, is what is happening in the sky.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 95
No need to wait for an
eclipse-kicking...
96 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Did you try it? If you did, no doubt you could feel the visceral contrast between the two postures and the relief that washes over your body when moving from that guarded, closed-off position to the relaxed, expansive one. Even if you didn’t try it, I’m sure you can imagine. (But you should still try it.) When astrologers look to the sky these days, this transition, from tightly bound to more open and expanded, is exactly what we see. At the opening of this quarter all the planets are bundled together in one third of the sky; by the end of the quarter, they will occupy half the sky, and this expansion will continue throughout 2022. The interpretation is that we are now unfolding and reintegrating. As we do, the new potential that we hold, the potential that has been forged since 2020, is making its initial debut in this nearly post-pandemic world. Who have you become over these last two years? Be assured that you are no longer the same. Even if you haven’t noticed, you have definitely transformed during this time. You are
older, for one. You have learned some tough truths about your values, your relationships and your resiliency. You’ve seen all the programs worth seeing on Netflix, plus a few more. You may no longer be interested in commuting to work, or wearing business attire from the waist down. It’s possible that your old jeans no longer fit your new body, and it’s more than probable that your old plans no longer fit this new time. You may have evolved to be stronger and more purposeful, or you may now be feeling more confused and uncertain than ever before. Either way, making in-roads into this new time, with your new self and all of its potential, is what this quarter is about. It is time to appreciate all that you have recently become, and to allow this new understanding to guide your actions. You don’t have to embrace this new you, of course, but it will be easier if you do. Clinging to your old life and plans is akin
to going to dinner in jeans you’ve outgrown. It cuts off your circulation, restricts you at the core, and keeps you from enjoying the present moment. (If you lived through the 80’s you know this first-hand.) Luckily, there are specific times when the astrology of this quarter will prompt you to ‘get with the program’ and that will be during the mid-spring eclipses. On April 30th there is a solar eclipse in the sign of Taurus. It will offer a swift kick to anyone stuck in the old. (Financial astrologers are predicting that this eclipse might also affect global markets and geo-political developments.) From a personal perspective, any growth you have been forestalling, may now be forced on you due to circumstances, perhaps surprising ones. If you have already begun expressing the ‘new you’ in the world, this eclipse could lead to developments that highlight just how far you have come and where you might expand further, possibly through exciting, unexpected events and flashes of insight. This eclipse also has a soul-mate theme connected to it, so some of
these electric developments may involve love, partnership, and circumstances triggered by others. The lunar eclipse of May 16th is also landing in the fixed signs of Scorpio and Taurus, further encouraging stuck energy to move forward. In between these two celestial events, Jupiter, the planet of opportunity, moves into decisive Aries (at least for the time being) and this could lead to some bold action during the May eclipse that wasn’t possible prior to the first eclipse in April. One way to work with this energy is to picture yourself having already achieved the growth that you are currently moving toward. The book is finished, the promotion gained, the new relationship has been found, and the harmony is restored. You already are this person who is capable of these things and as you relax and stretch out into this new territory with your fresh eyes, energy, and newly-forged self, you will see that this is so. No need to wait for an eclipse-kicking to find out.
BY TASHA BODNARCHUK HOLISTIC COUNSELLOR
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
EMBODIMENT
98 • United Colours of Design Magazine
All that
GLITTERS. All that SHINES. Do we really need to follow some magical winding path to the end
of the rainbow to get to the gold? Do we need to look outside of ourselves to receive abundance? I believe that we are the GOLD we are searching for. Each of us is a vessel that has the potential to overflow with love and sparkling possibility. It is a disservice to our humanness to doubt how powerful we are, from the inside out. We are the creators and alchemists of our dreams. Embodiment requires us to deep dive with open arms and an open heart into our truth, our authentic selves, and this can only be done by going inward. Humanity spends so much time on the external – the external body, the external environment and all that exists outside of us. When we strip away the stress, noise and busyness of our lives we are able to recognize that it is all separate from us. We have the choice to ground into who we truly are, each of us golden shiny beams of light and love energy with endless potential.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 99
100 • United Colours of Design Magazine
I AM GOLD, I AM ENOUGH, I AM.
How can you begin to tap into yourself and your inner knowing? It starts with connecting to just YOU in the moment. Having presence and using your breath as your guide can be an amazing tool. Inhale, exhale, repeat. Moment to moment. Take the time each day to have a few minutes of body and breath awareness. Sitting in a comfortable spot, place your hands on your chest, lungs, or heart space, if it feels good to do so. Otherwise place your hands comfortably on your knees or lap. Fully and deeply inhale and open up to receive the fresh oxygen for your lungs and blood. Allow that breath to travel deep down into your belly. Envision that breath as golden and bright and feel it cleansing your mind, body and spirit. When you feel an exhale coming, connect to that golden energy again. The out breath releases stagnant air, negative ideas, thoughts, stories, and creates space for the next healing breath. Why is our breath such an important tool in our self-care kit? It is automatic, so we do not have to force our breath. Our magical body has the ability to function as a welloiled machine, all the integral parts working together so we can function and live, move, grow, and explore the world around us. Our breathing creates an instant change and shift no matter what we do. Inhale – newness, freshness. Exhale – all which no longer serves us. Simple breath work relieves anxiety, stress and feelings of being overwhelmed with all that is happening in our world. It brings us home, to the simple intricacy of our bodies. When we tune into our physical body in this way, what is external to us can perhaps fade into the background and we can return to what we do have control over, our very own feeling and moving body. In reality, (let us connect to that for a moment) we often get swept away with should haves, could haves and an endless to-do list. My recommendation as a Holistic Counsellor
is to find ways of going inward that work for you. I can make suggestions but it is about YOU. Maybe what you feel comfortable doing at home, you may not want to do at work, or sitting in your car. Find ways that resonate for you. You are your number one healer, never forget that. The more you take the time to know your mind and body in stillness and quiet, the more you will receive clarity and the answers you need. With a gentle reminder that this process takes practice, and that there can be a beginning, but there is no end. The work of exploring your self-awareness, self-acceptance, and openness to stepping into your golden power is an ever changing and evolving journey of self-love. It is our personal adventure and we can choose to embrace all of it with an open mind, heart and body. Maybe connecting to your breath will lead you to connect to your body, to move, dance, or do yoga stretches. Maybe you walk, or run, or explore in nature. Maybe you create a mantra that you can repeat and focus on, something that grounds you and brings you back to your body in the present moment. Maybe you can repeat these words as a focus point: I AM GOLD, I AM ENOUGH, I AM. It does not have to be complicated, simplicity is key. Just sit and be and repeat these words inward or outward: I AM GOLD, I AM ENOUGH, I AM. You can create a mixed bag of options to help you find that gold within yourself, your WHY. The ‘why’ is about seeing and accepting exactly who you are, peeling back the layers that help to expose and express why you came in this human body form, and what magic you are here to create. All of us are unique and individual masterpieces that come together in this tapestry of life. Never forget – you are worthy, YOU ARE GOLD.
I AM GOLD, I AM ENOUGH, I AM. The Gold Book April 2022 • 101
BY KATHRYN DZSUDZSAK THE BLUE HAIR MEDIUM
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
ENERGY
102 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Going ga ga over
GOLD It never fails; my brain is on fire with ideas, and then, when it’s time to
write……chirp, chirp…crickets! To make matters even more fun, here we are again with a colour that typically is not in the chakra system. What is gold? Why do people go absolutely gah gaa over gold, especially pirates?? Arrrrrh matey! Where did the word gold even come from? I can delve into the history of it, but I would need a lot more space than what I have for my article, so let’s just do the obvious. (I can’t just leave it at that, so I have to give you a little bit.) Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au which comes from the Latin word “aurum.” For all you scientific people out there, the atomic number is 79, making it one of the higher atomic number elements that occur naturally. It was discovered in the Middle East before 6000 BCE! And I thought I was old! Apparently, all of the gold found on earth is the debris of dead stars? Who knew! (Google)
The Gold Book April 2022 • 103
For a moment, I invite you to forget about the warmth and brightness the sun provides and just allow the gold to soak into your cells.
104 • United Colours of Design Magazine
What is gold all about? Gold is a cousin to yellow and the colour brown, so it has a link with your solar plexus. It is about courage, passion and wisdom. Yellow also is joy, and when you think of gold, how do you feel? Imagine a beautiful golden sun beginning to rise in the morning or set in the evening. Think about how it makes you feel. In the morning, does it’s golden warmth inspire you? Does it get your mojo going? What about the sunsets? At the end of a long day I invite you to forget about the warmth and brightness the sun provides and just allow the gold to soak into your cells. Allow it to energize and rejuvinate your DNA as you rest during the night.
energy field. If the negativity is stuck in your energetic body, it will also be stuck in your physical body! Whatever happens in your physical body, also happens or is happening in your energetic body! Gold helps clean your physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual body. Because of the frequency, gold will transfer the energy to areas that your body needs healing in. Your body needs the minerals that are in gold. Who knew!!
Gold also helps you: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
So let’s move into the frequency and the energy of gold.
Is gold part of the chakra system? Yes and no. Gold is all about balancing the space between the solar plexus and heart chakra. It is also associated with the third eye and the crown. So yes, it is part of the chakra/ energy system. It helps to amplify your thoughts and assists in meditation. It is believed that gold can help prevent spiritual deterioration, so if you feel you’re struggling spiritually, grab a gold necklace or something that’s gold. It is also beneficial for fatigue and helps to rid negativity. Gold may help you move away from greed and to relieve anger. If you are feeling low, gold is fabulous to gain back the mojo you misplaced!
Does it affect your energetic/ spiritual self and physical body? Yes, it does! Healers have been using gold for centuries because of the healing properties. Because gold is an allnatural mineral, it is nontoxic, and the body easily tolerates it. Once again, don’t be taking anything until you check with your medical professional! Gold has been placed in many things. Certain foods, drinks, and creams have actual gold in them. It’s a mineral, and because it is a soft metal, your body can digest it. When I found this out, I could have smacked myself. I have a skin issue, and look what gold can help treat! (e.g. eczema, fungal infections, skin rash, wounds, skin burns) Gold provides warm and soothing vibrations to the skin and, therefore, helps your body regenerate cells. Apparently, gold plays a big role in the health and maintenance of joints. The other cool thing is gold is a conductor of electricity, and thus, it will help transmit electrical signals throughout the body! I guess we need to do some more research on gold! It’s beginning to answer why some people have gold teeth! Gold helps to clear negativity from your chakras and your
Meditate and retrieve your higher thoughts later Open and activate your third eye and crown chakras Balances your energy field In letting go of ego Rid feelings of uselessness Rebuild your nervous system With loyalty With your wellbeing Stay organized With punctuality. With compassion Share your wisdom with others To attract wealth
There is not only yellow gold. We also have rose gold and white gold. What properties do these hold? • •
Rose gold really enhances spirituality. White gold is really good at channelling the energy of the sun and the moon.
So when you use gold with other stones or crystals, it can amplify the energy in the healing power of those stones. It is best to be able to use the purest of the gold that you can get. However, not everyone can afford or wants to spend a lot because gold is not cheap. There are more economical ways to get the energy of the gold without having to forfeit anything. There is gold wire that can be used for wrapping some of your favourite stones. Make a necklace or have a mala made with gold intertwined through it. Even something as simple as gold thread can give you what you need. As a reminder, before you purchase anything, always muscle test and make sure that it is right for you. It has to be right for you. Just because someone tells you that it’s good for you does not mean it is. It is so, so important to let your energy, your physical body, and your energetic body choose what is right for you.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 105
BY HEATHER BAIN BEHAVIOURAL TEACHING ASSISTANT
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
FAMILY
106 • United Colours of Design Magazine
THE SNOW FORT BUILDERS’ SKILLS! One day a grade one teacher called me and reported that two of her students hadn’t come back in after recess. She could see them, and called them from the steps of the portable, but they didn’t respond. It was a sunny, cold, winter day with a fresh blanket of packing snow covering the school yard as I headed outside. I found them at the back of the school field, perfecting a massive snow fort. They excitedly showed off the walled rooms and a cache of snowballs for ammunition in case the older kids wanted their fort. They were quite surprised when I told them recess was over and they were late for class. Both began to cry because they thought they were in “big trouble”. As we walked inside, we discussed safety and strategies to use. We explained what happened to their teacher and they shared their recess plan. Happily there were no further issues like this one. Years later, when the same two boys were in grade eight, they ran in the student council election, and both won leadership positions. They brought their focus, communication, work ethic and the teamwork skills they had displayed that day in grade one building a snow fort, to their new Student Council roles. When I was a child, my sister and I attended a weekly ballet class. Our mother would drop us off at the front door, go to park the car and come inside. We always arrived dressed and ready to join dance class with our street clothes packed in our dance bags. We
The Gold Book April 2022 • 107
W What do you see and identify as your areas of intelligence?
were expected to get changed and meet our mother by the front door right after ballet was over.
One day when my mother was waiting to take us home, my sister met her at the door. Mom asked where I was, then came into the change room. I was half changed, working my way around the room as I chatted to friends. My belongings were scattered. Mom rounded up me and my stuff and asked why I wasn’t ready to leave. I shared detailed comments about my friends and how I hugged my classmate and her mother goodbye who were going to be away from dance class on vacation. My mom told me that I needed to be more organized like my younger sister. I was 6 and she was 4. In the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, Howard Gardner proposes that intelligence can fall into multiple areas of human ability that are not necessarily able to be measured by standard intelligence tests. They are broken into several categories and people may have more than one area of strength of varying degrees. (*Please see the chart above and the reference article for more details.)
108 • United Colours of Design Magazine
What do you see and identify as your areas of intelligence? Which ones do you see in your child/children and other family members? Educators often deliberately design the activities within their lessons to assist each student learn in a way that best fits multiple areas of intelligence and a child’s learning style. Some questions for parents to think about are “How do we encourage and support our children to be their best selves? How do we help them develop their potential?” My answer: children learn what they see! Encourage them to be true to their authentic selves even when it’s hard. And do it yourself too! A read-aloud story I found on YouTube that clearly and simply explains this concept is “ A Kids’ Book About Belonging “ by Kevin Carroll. It’s amazing to see how the combination of time, maturity, social and emotional growth enables children to become a wiser, more able, confident versions of themselves. The same can also be true for adults. As my college Gerontology
Professor once stated, “The rat becomes rattier!” By that she meant people become more themselves and find a way to use, practice and polish their innate skills, abilities, and personality traits. The student who doodles to escape classroom routines could become a talented artist. The high school track star may be the student who used to do laps in the halls to deal with anger issues! To this day, my younger sister is more organized than me. I always envied her ability to focus, work hard and get great report cards. She envied my ease in socializing and making people feel comfortable. Honestly, I haven’t changed that much from the half dressed, chatty little girl keeping my mother waiting! But now I make my living (completely dressed) using my strong interpersonal and communication skills to support students, staff, and parents. Want to show your children that you are being your best self??? Experiment and praise the effort taken to explore new skills, hobbies, situations, and experiences. Lead by example and model the positive character traits you want your child to have like honesty, cooperation, respect, loyalty, kindness, and compassion. Teach your child that mistakes happen, that they are normal and can be a learning opportunity. Reframe it from a growth mindset point of view. Show them that you are still excited about learning new things! Accept successes and challenges as part of life. Have them notice, acknowledge, and appreciate the caring people in their lives. Find joy in everyday wonders like a pretty flower, jumping in a puddle, or cuddling a beloved pet. *article reference Marenus, M.(2020, June 09). Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences. Simply Psychology. www. simplypsychology.org/multiple-inteligences.html
Most importantly, take the time to notice the effort and skills your children bring to building a terrific snow fort! It could be the start of a wonderful story!
The Gold Book April 2022 • 109
BY SAMANTHA TIMBERS NLP PRACTITIONER, HYPNOTHERAPIST, CREATOR OF REDESIGN YOUR LIFE AFTER 40 PROGRAM
Scan for Website
COLOURS OF
HYPNOSIS
110 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Empower yourself with
GOLD
Gold is one of the most prestigious metals on the planet and throughout history has been equated with power. When I thought of the word “power”, my mind would automatically look to the negative, because to me power meant that someone has power over you and implied they were going to use that power for control. Over the last few years, I have redefined my perception and now see both positive and negative sides of power. As I have discovered since writing for this beautiful magazine, often when I am working with the edition colour things related to the aspects of that colour appear. This month was no different as I was working with the colour gold a few situations arose regarding power and feeling disempowered. Two of these situations involved my daughters. In two separate situations they had felt their power was taken away by the actions and
FREE Empowerment
comments of other people. There were choices and decisions
Hypnosis Video
that needed to be made. Two choices immediately came
Click here to listen.
to mind; run away and feel defeated or fight back and
The Gold Book April 2022 • 111
get angry. Many people believe these are the only two options available when you feel your power has been taken from you. At the root of any disempowerment is the lack of choice. What if there is another choice? You don’t have to be defeated, a victim, or angry. Taking back your power can mean standing your ground from a place of calm and confidence, knowing your worth, knowing no one other than you can give away your power.
112 • United Colours of Design Magazine
At some point in everyone’s life they have felt a sense of being unworthy, unlovable, undeserving, or just not feeling enough. When we feel this way, it is easy to give away power through being a victim or lashing out in anger. There are a number of ways to remove these limiting beliefs in order to feel worthy. In my last article, there are some concrete suggestions as to how to begin to feel worthy. It is difficult to feel empowered while not feel worthy or deserving. When you are empowered, wonderful things happen. When you decide to stand your ground and keep your
Empower yourself through self-hypnosis Many people do not realize that they can hypnotize themselves to assist with being empowered. You don’t always need a hypnotherapist. It would be similar to working out on your own to build your muscles or seeking out a personal trainer to assist you. When working with a certified Hypnotherapist you will often be able to experience a deeper level of trance and may have quicker results. Depending on what you are working on you may be able to accomplish what you need on your own. Self-hypnosis is similar to meditation with the additional use of suggestions to install behaviours and new beliefs.
Steps to hypnotize yourself to empowerment Find a comfortable place where you will not be distracted and turn off your devices • Sitting up preferably in a comfortable chair with loose clothing Set your goal of empowerment • You will use suggestions such as: I am confident, deserving, and worthy to speak of what I want and desire Focus your gaze: • Find a spot to focus on within your line of sight Begin to relax • Breathe deeply in through your nose and exhale through your mouth, do this 3 times and allow your shoulders to drop Focus on your breath • Continue to relax, close your eyes and continue to breathe deeply. Count down from 10 – 0 and imagine yourself walking down a beautiful staircase Visualize • Use your senses to create your most relaxed place see, hear, and feel what you would see in this space. Imagine your body becoming heavy, just like when you are about to fall asleep Your suggestions of empowerment • Imagine yourself feeling empowered, and see, hear, and feel what that is like. State to yourself - I am confident, deserving, and worthy to speak to what I want and desire. Repeat this to yourself 3 times as you do direct compassion and love to yourself Bring yourself back • Let your body return to normal, begin counting from 5 – 1 telling yourself that you are coming back from wherever you were into the room, and say when I reach one I will open my eyes energized and alert
power and not give it away it will change your life. To claim your right to communicate what you need and want without resentment, anger, or feeling like a victim is power. The Oxford dictionary defines Empowerment as “the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.” Hypnosis and feeling empowered Hypnosis can assist you to find your power and feel empowered. Hypnosis is a tool used in Hypnotherapy, and is a trance-like state in which you have heightened focus and concentration. When you are in the state of hypnosis it allows you to access to your subconscious mind; when you access your subconscious mind you can begin to reprogram your thoughts and beliefs. Your beliefs, values, view of the world, and programs that run your life are all stored in the unconscious mind. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, so whether you are working with a Hypnotherapist or you are going to practice self-hypnosis you can reprogram your mind to feel empowered. Through hypnosis you can increase your feelings of confidence, selfesteem, self-worth, and self-love. This will assist you in feeling empowered and expressing what you need and want in a situation. When you are in a situation where you feel disempowered Step 1
Take a breath, do not immediately react
Step 2
Be in the present
Step 3
Tell yourself you are worthy, confident and you are powerful
Step 4
Decide how you want to be treated and what you need and want
Step 5
Communicate these wants and needs
Step 6
Stay strong, say positive affirmations, know you are worth it
Hypnosis can assist with confidence, self-esteem, weight loss, stress, anxiety, smoking cessation, setting and achieving goals, and so much more.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 113
BY JENNIFER LOVE SACRED ART OF TANTRA
Scan for Contact Info
COLOURS OF
INTIMACY
114 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Sex
Magick&
Sparkles PUSSY
How to Use Your Sexual Energy to Create Your Dream Life Before we dive into the details of this juicy practice, I invite you to take a moment and reflect on what the name Sex Magick stirs up within you. What do you think it means? Does it activate curiosity or fear? How do you feel when you read the words Pussy Sparkles? Do you feel empowered within your sexuality and sexual expression, or do you notice blocks inside you?
focus. This is an indication that your energy is blocked. You have the power within you to create the life of your dreams, whatever that looks like to you. The key is to keep this energy in flow.
Everything is perfect as it is, there is no need to change anything at this moment, simply reflect and notice what comes up for you. Your sexual energy is the most potent and powerful force available to you to manifest your dream life. When it is combined with the Law of Attraction in a Sex Magick ritual, you are consciously channeling this sexual energy toward what you want to bring into your life.
I will share with you how to do this practice in a moment, but before we do, I want to give you a quick introduction to the chakra system. The word “Chakra” is Sanskrit and means WHEEL, so you can imagine or visualize each of your chakras as a spinning wheel of energy. There are 7 major chakras in the body, and they align themselves along your spine from the very base all the way to the top of your head. Your chakras are one part of your energy body and a key piece of how energy moves within your physical body and out into the world.
Everything in this Universe is energy. It is in a constant state of movement and flow. When this movement of energy is constricted, we can feel it in our lives. We may feel stuck or at a standstill. We may feel distracted or lost, or unable to
When you practice Sex Magick, you will be moving your sexual energy up from your base chakra and genitals all the way up to the crown of your head as you reach an orgasmic state. This may seem like a foreign language to you at the
The Gold Book April 2022 • 115
moment, and that is okay. This is an energy PRACTICE and you will not get it on your first or second try, and that is okay too. Be gentle with yourself and have fun with it. It is well worth the investment of time to learn how to do this ancient practice of using your orgasmic energy combined with your creative intentions. I love the term Pussy Sparkles. I just imagine golden glitter being sent out into the Universe to return to me all my desires. Feel free to use the term yourself or choose a word that resonates with you. The idea is to have a visual of your creative, sexual energy being activated. And at the very least, this is a fun practice to do solo or with your partner to create more intimacy in the moment. *Note, before beginning this practice - if you are not familiar with the chakra system, I recommend having a picture of them with you when you do the practice for reference of where they are located and the colour of each one. (You can find one on Google to print off or look at) How to Practice Sex Magick 1. Set an Intention for your Ritual - You will want to begin your Sex Magick Practice by setting an intention. What is it that you are wanting to create in your life? You can have an intention for your career or business, your relationship, your health, and fitness. It can be for more abundance, more happiness, more freedom, etc. Whatever your heart desires. Allow this to come easily and naturally for you. You can write it down on a piece of paper or a sticky note, add it to your altar, or create an image in your mind. This will be what you focus on as your pleasure and turn on expands and finally what you will release out to the Universe at the moment of the Big-O. 2. Set Your Sacred Space/Gather Your Materials - Once you have set your intention, you will next create a sacred space. Take some time to clear out all the clutter from your space. If you are in your bedroom, make sure all the laundry is put away and that your bed is made. You may want to add some crystals, essential oils, fresh flowers, or candles. Make your space clear and beautiful. Take as much time as you need to set the space. If you are doing a solo session, you may also want to gather your favorite toys. 3. Cleanse Your Energy - Before beginning your ritual you will want to cleanse your energy. I always enjoy a hot bubble bath with rose essential oils and Epsom salts. You may want to do the same, or a hot steamy shower may be more appealing for you. If you are doing the Sex Magick ritual with a partner, you may even want to invite that person to join you. Once you have cleansed your physical body, consider cleansing your energy body as well. You
116 • United Colours of Design Magazine
can use sage or Palo Santo, smoke from incense, or even just visualize yourself surrounded by a ball of white light. 4. Ground Yourself/Connect to Your Partner - Your next step will be to move into your sacred space and ground yourself. If you are with a partner, you will want to take a few extra moments to connect with them heart-toheart. To ground yourself, sit on your bed and take a few deep breaths with the intention to bring yourself to the present moment. Release the day and allow all your thoughts to move as they wish. Take as much time as you need. Once you feel that you are present, connect with your partner by facing them and breathing a few deep breaths together. You may also want to hold hands or put one hand on each other’s hearts. 5. Focus on Pleasure & Turn On - Then you will slowly begin to turn yourself, or each other, on. Take your time
How to Practice
Sex
Magick
and really enjoy the feelings and sensations. This can be whatever feels good to you. There are no rules here. When you start to sense the turn on energy, bring your attention to your root chakra, located at the base of your spine. Imagine a glowing red wheel or ball of energy. Mix your sexual energy with this energy and notice how the energy shifts or changes. Stay with these sensations for a few moments and then move the energy up to your sacral chakra, located just above the root chakra. Imagine a glowing orange wheel or ball of energy. Mix your sexual energy with the energy of this chakra and see how it shifts or changes. Continue to do this all the way up to the crown chakra. Take as much time as you need. If you feel yourself getting close to the big-O, take a few deep breaths and go slow. You want to save that energy until you get to the crown chakra! 6. Release Your Pussy Sparkles - Once you have moved
your sexual energy all the way up through your chakras to your crown, you can then release your intention out into the Universe as you climax. Again, you want a visual representation of your sexual energy moving out into the world and I invite you to see golden Pu$$y Sparkles move out your crown chakra toward your dreams. Visualize yourself having achieved your dreams, living your desires. Continue to visualize for as long as feels good for you. Then you can sit or lay for a few moments in stillness or in the arms of your partner. You may feel inclined to journal after your experience or however you would like to close off the ritual. Again, Sex Magick takes practice. Do not put pressure on yourself to get it right the first time or even to reach orgasm. The important thing is to relax, have fun and enjoy the moment, either with yourself or with your partner!
The Gold Book April 2022 • 117
Scan for Contact Info
BY DIANA BUTLER
Letting go of
CONTROLLING behaviour
A tidbit of wisdom about how tapping into our power can help us let go of our controlling behaviour. From my experience, we use control as a tool to validate that we are in the “right.” Generally speaking, we do so to keep us feeling safe, not just in our environment but also in our identity. By enacting structure and order we remove the threat of chaos and uncertainty. But is our way “the right way” or are we in a subconscious power struggle where our ego’s innate desire for safety and security, has waged war against the truth? Perspective is reality. Reality becomes our truth. Our truth becomes our identity. Our identity becomes our ego. Our ego is protected through control. So, in essence we use control to protect our ego, which then
118 • United Colours of Design Magazine
protects our identity, which has been crafted by a will to stay safe and therefore, the actions we take are determined by what we deem to be true, based upon the reality of our world, which is ultimately determined by our perception. So, does that suggest that to alter our reality, we would need to change our perspective rather than control our environment? Have we been doing things wrong all this time? Have we been trying to control others and our environment to keep us feeling safe, a process that creates tension, fuels fights and wages war, when all we need to do is alter our personal perspective? So, what is perspective? We all operate on different energetic frequencies, experiences, education, knowledge, wisdom, and emotional intelligence.
How much of each “element” we tap into, ultimately determines how we perceive things. Therefore, multiple people can interpret the exact same event in many ways, each of us assigning a different personal truth to the same situation. However, there is a difference between personal truth and universal truth. There are very few universal truths that exist in this world – so other than those truths, everything else, for the most part, is perspective. Control becomes such a dominating player for everybody because when somebody has not chosen that same truth as us, we become very agitated because our identity is threatened. We choose to try to force others into our reality of truth.
receptive to adopting other perspectives, moving forward towards positive changes, and working together, while giving and taking – not waging war in defense of our identities. Can you imagine a world where we did not live in a constant battle for control, no tug of war between friends and family? No bickering and making others feel wrong so you can feel good about yourself? Living in that way is a powerful tool that offers life-altering results. This is where the power of Gold really shines: in transforming your understanding of truth. Instead of dictating outcomes
But that’s very reactive and destructive. Few people know that we have the power to squash our natural response to defend our truth at all costs. It is when we actively choose to control our reactions rather than let them control us that we are met with greater ease and grace in our lives. The good news is that it’s way easier to take control and
Perspective is reality. Reality becomes our truth. Our truth becomes our identity. Our identity becomes our ego. Our ego is protected through control.
change our perspective than it is to control others and/ or our environment. All you need to do is add or remove elements of perspective and you will have a different outcome. For example, operating from a frequency of trust versus distrust, will change the result. Perhaps a little Google research can shed some light to a situation, thus changing your perspective, or you may seek guidance from an expert who has achieved different results. In being open, and seeking out answers, you can alter your perspective, find security and do so which greater ease and grace. Another tool we can use to let go of control is to embrace compassion. When we can recognize that someone’s behaviour is based simply upon a different perspective than ours, not a hardcore truth, our ego does not need to feel so threatened. We can engage in dialogue and become more
via control, you will be positioned to balance your life and improve relationships. You can stand in your power, knowing you can define your life, through personal change rather than forced control. It gives you peace knowing that with a little pivot or a tiny adjustment to perspective can have a lot more impact than the sledgehammer of control.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 119
Scan for Contact Info
BY KORANI CONNOLLY
INNERGOLD I have always liked gold. Something about its shine, its lustre, and its quality of being slightly elusive always appealed. It wasn’t until I found myself writing a book some years ago, however, that I discovered a deeper significance to gold. I was in South Africa visiting Colour Mirrors creator, Melissie Jolly, who had just added seven ‘Golden Gaia’ oils to her colour healing system, Colour Mirrors. To say I took these golden bottles into my heart would be an under-statement. From the first, I was mesmerised, transfixed, bewitched. The particular shade of gold was pale, soft, flaxen and delicious: this was literally liquid gold. For the week I was with Melissie, we sat and gazed at the beautiful golden bottles, but we were not just enjoying the colours, we were soaking up their energies and messages. Melissie’s creations are far more than ‘just’ colour. They exude a light and radiance that almost everyone responds to in some way. Whether they stir up an emotion, bring peace to your heart, quieten your mind or make you smile, each Colour Mirrors oil has a specific colour or combination of colours that brings about a response.
120 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Colour is a language, and even if your mind does not know it, your body – and your spirit – speaks it fluently. Over the course of my week with gold, I felt extraordinary changes taking place within me: bliss, joy, huge excitement and a well of creativity bubbling up inside. I felt as if I had found a truth – a truth so huge my mind could not fully comprehend it. For what these Golden Gaia bottles showed me was my own unique inner gold. They showed me that it is the powerful light within each human being that makes us who we are. They showed me the beauty and the magnificence of the human spirit. They showed me that there is a power within each of us that transcends who we ‘think’ we are. They even showed me the potential for humanity, if we can evolve beyond the limited and limiting mindsets we seem collectively to have embraced. The golden bottles began to convey so much information that I felt compelled to write about them, and a book, The Language of Light, began to take form. As it did, I realised there would be no turning back for me now. I could no longer ignore the call of my soul to follow the path it was
laying out for me, and soon my life began to take on a kind of golden glow. Everything flowed. As soon as I had a desire it would manifest. My creativity blossomed. I was also given a profound taste of living in an expanded state of consciousness. This blissful state lasted quite some time, and has informed my life ever since, but I have also experienced my share of struggles and challenges like anyone else. I have certainly had times of finding it difficult to access my inner gold, and during those times, I would call on the messages of gold I received from the Golden Gaia bottles. They reminded me that the gold was still there inside me if I could keep chipping away at the rocks surrounding it: the conditioning, the limiting beliefs, the traumas I had experienced, and the dramas I had created. Now, the more I access my inner gold, the more I live in a flow state. Gold helps me remember how to value myself. I choose to find the ‘gold’ in the challenges I face and be grateful for the blessings. I find a storehouse of wisdom and inner knowing I can turn to and rely on. I keep on reaching for the gold within me and drawing on its power. Not everyone owns physical gold. But everyone has inner gold! Gold helps us see who we are, perhaps from a higher perspective than we might usually view ourselves. When we describe something as ‘gold’ or ‘golden’, it is because it is priceless, precious and valuable; special, significant and admirable; shiny, beautiful and brilliant. Your inner gold is what makes you ‘you’. Your inner gold is what makes you precious, of value, of worth – to yourself and others. It is the beauty, the light, the glow you carry inside. It is your unique brilliance: the things that others admire
in you, and that you respect in yourself. Gold is the spark that shines out through your eyes. It is your spirit, and your individual essence. And when you truly access your inner gold, you cannot help but feel empowered. What do you value about yourself? What do others value about you? Imagine you are a true friend, one who knows and loves you deeply and sees you clearly. What would this friend say about you if asked to describe your inner gold? If asked to share all the gifts, talents, skills, qualities and characteristics that make you so precious to them? Write it all down, without censoring, without stopping. Dig out every last nugget of gold you can find. When you are done, take a breath and read it back. This is YOU! This is your inner gold. If it feels hard to own it, just notice that. Now highlight the top 4-6 things your friend has said about you, the ones that resonate the most, the ones that feel most ‘right’, most ‘you’. Distil them down into one sentence. You can mix and match words, pick out some nuggets, discard others, add new ones. Refine this sentence until it perfectly sums up your inner gold, your inner worth, your inner preciousness. Now see or imagine it as a golden light in your heart. See or feel it right there inside you. Let yourself feel, even for a moment, that it is truth. Write it out (preferably in gold). Place it somewhere you can see it, and let yourself receive this beautiful golden message often. It is your inner gold that lights up the world! Korani and Melissie Jolly will be offering an 8-week Golden Keys online course starting April 28th, 2022, more information at korani.net.
Korani’s book, The Language of Light, features the seven Golden Gaia oils from Colour Mirrors. ---> The second edition is due for release April 2022 and will be available in paperback and e-book format. G9 Faith
G12 I Am
G13 Grace
G10 Impeccability
G14 Ascension Light
G11 Generosity
G15 Satori
The Gold Book April 2022 • 121
YOUR BRAND
STARTS HERE.
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTACT I AMY BELL I +1 647.830.8485 A M Y. B A R R O S O @ W H I T E L I G H T N I N G C O M M U N I C AT I O N S . C O M
OFFICIAL DESIGN FIRM FOR UNITED COLOURS OF DESIGN MAGAZINE
The Gold Book April 2022 • 123
ARTIST CANADA
APURV PURANDARE Apurv Parag Purandare
calls himself an amateur because he will never stop learning to paint. Painting is something that keeps him sane, while at the same time, allows him good access to his expressive side. Apurv likes to play with acrylics on canvas, usually landscapes.
Scan for Instagram
The Sunshine After Storm To achieve and actually witness the golden sunshine, we also need to go pass some dark points. Its actually the dark clouds that make the peeping sun ray bright. The boat as well, hanging after a dark storm, would see the ray of hope in form of the lighthouse. Seems dramatic, doesn't it? This is actually my first work on a proper canvas board and hence it is special to me. I followed the steps of Yushkevich Viktor who did a similar painting.
A Heavenly Dispute Whenever the word Gold comes to my mind, Clouds and sunshine are the first things to appear. The golden sunshine, the variety in shades of the clouds along with the contrasting greens of the earth which look fresh and the purple in the blues behind the crashing thunder all together create magic and something so spectacular that the title seems perfect. I could actually smell the fresh grass and would definitely want to spend some time in that place.
LAUREL BEST
ARTIST CANADA
Laurel Best is a professional watercolour artist. Her subject matter is varied, but animals and flowers are favorites. Laurel has been teaching art for the past 8 years and is currently teaching online. She loves painting watercolour pet portrait commissions.
Scan for Website
Yorkshire Gold Gold makes me think of British royalty and teacups remind me of having tea with my British grandmother. I started by painting the gold with Quinacidrone gold but I really wanted to create a shiny gold so I used Winsor and Newton’s Gold-Metallic Bronze ink. The ink seemed alive when I painted with it, constantly moving until it dried. It felt magical to paint with. Wild Horses Horses are such beautiful animals! I have really been enjoying seeing all the beautiful horses on Yellowstone. I painted a trio of horses, chestnut, golden and black in watercolour. A golden colour can be achieved in a number of ways. Here I have used a combination of Aureolin Yellow and Burnt Sienna to get a nice gold.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 125
ARTIST CANADA
MICHELLE RICHARDS Michelle Richards is an “emotionally responsive process” artist, with a side of experimenting thrown in for fun. She continuously develops her personal art through teaching and creating. Michelle thrives by engaging with people during community art events, art lessons, and exhibits. Her passions, struggles, and perspectives are captured, then translated with the creative worlds of graphite, pastel, oil, acrylic & charcoal and portrays her love for light, contrast, human interactions, and being up close and personal with the natural world.
Cracks of Gold 6" x 6" Acrylic on Birch Panel.
This is the second piece I made with the intention of GOLD. The eyes are the window to the soul. We are all broken in some way or other. Repair the cracks with gold, celebrate your life.
Scan for Facebook
126 • United Colours of Design Magazine
The Gold Book April 2022 • 127
Broken
Broken was the starting point where the artist felt she needed to say something without words because she knew too well of these emotions. This piece has almost a melting effect that sooths the viewer. The surface where sea foam cracks disrupt the cream-like texture in the face of fading. A sensation that even when broken still we are shining and very worth it. The Collection “Worth Your Weight in Gold” has six parts: Rupture, Broken, Exposed, Waves of Realization, Acceptance & New Path.
Rupture
The softness of tones clashing with the end of an era. Gold, because where there was darkness, it will be light. Textures that invite the viewer to feel the changes taking place right in front of their eyes and yet with a fluidity that it’s almost like the waters of a river flowing. When you have tried for so long and even though you do not want to, you know the best way forward it’s to cut ties and walk away. When you love someone who cannot love you. When you have fought so much but you are drained, and you have rundown of fight. When you have tried as hard as you possible can, and it still doesn’t happen for you. Instead of giving up there’s another path. “Rupture”. The self-breaking and breaching, the soul exploding, the mind erupting and melting. Your core is gold no matter what.
128 • United Colours of Design Magazine
MARA SZYP
ARTIST CANADA
Mara Szyp is an established international ArgentineanCanadian artist. She is a double cancer survivor. Loves working with oils and acrylics on West Coast Seascapes & Abstracts. She is a very intuitive artist, she draws inspiration from nature all around her and the feelings brewing within herself and her undoubtedly sensitivity.
Scan for Website
Forged in Gold and Feather Where caresses are needed more in the soul than in the skin. Where soft words and whispers move mountains. The essence of who you are doesn't not fade, even if your hair turns white, even if you start seeing wrinkles, even when the year pass by and its harder to move. You are you.
ARTIST CANADA
HEATHER EDGINGTON Heather
Edgington
is a Dream Master and owner of Never2Late Coaching. She is the award winning author of "Become Your Dream: It's Never2Late to Love Your Life". Heather helps people overcome fear and leap into a life they love. Heather has allowed herself to become creative at the age of 70!
Scan for Website
Golden Protection 2022 Hand painted acrylic on glass vase. Gold is the metal of safety and value. Money was originally based on the gold standard, "how much is this piece of paper worth in gold? ". In times of terror and turmoil, people turn to buying gold, and hide it away. This black vase, representing the darkness of sadness and fear that is being covered in gold representing safety and future full of hope of success and happiness. Are you going to stay stuck in your darkness, or step out into the flow of your light and happiness, where you were meant to be?
Golden Gaiety 2022 Hand applied acrylic paint on glass vase. Gold is the colour of joy and achievement. It is the colour of wedding rings, and 50th anniversaries, gold records, gold stars, and Olympic medals! It represents the best. As I created this piece, I was inspired to add golden bubbles like champagne on the stripes to show the joy of success and celebration. When you step out the rut you are in (kindly called your comfort zone) , and do something you have never done, celebrate that feeling of wonder that fills your heart. You are a winner and your deserve to explode with happiness. I am new to creating art - all my life I "knew" I was not creative. I allowed that limiting belief to leave, and now I am in love with being and artist. What can you achieve today? Big hugs
130 • United Colours of Design Magazine
TASHA BODNARCHUK & YANA BANZEN
POET & ARTIST CANADA
Tasha Bodnarchuk’s passion is thinking outside the box by infusing art, poetry, creative writing, mindful movement and dance into her Holistic Counselor practice to create emotional, physical and spiritual catharsis and healing experiences. Living and working in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Costa Rica has expanded her knowledge of working in different communities and has allowed her to work holistically.
Yana Banzen is a lawyer, digital nomad, international yoga teacher and an artist currently based in Toronto. She lived in Kazakhstan before she came to Canada and after several years of law practice in Toronto her desire to live from her heart led her to explore life in Thailand and Costa Rica. Her life is inspired by examining the psyche, living from a soulful place, and copious amounts of coffee.
Scan for Instagram
no need to search far and wide or travel to the end of the rainbow to find that magic it is within your reach beneath your feet in each heartbeat all that glitter all that shine you are gold you are divine
The Gold Book April 2022 • 131
BRIAN BAKER ARTIST • UNITED KINGDOM Silent Symbolic Swan Spanning the millennia, gold, has always had multiple functions and meanings. It has endured so long that it has become part of our psyche. In cosmology today, gold plating is used for its ability to reflect infrared light and enable scientists to look back to the beginnings of the universe. I have used gold in this picture to try to symbolically emphasize memory. Combined with the sun’s golden reflections, the landscape and water come alive with the dance of light. Hopefully, with the silent symbolic swan , this may evoke a connection to significant moments from our past.
Brian Baker lives in Lancashire England and has been passionate about art all his life. His works have included wildlife, landscape and portraiture using different types of media. Scan for Email More recently Brian has been studying old master techniques and styles used by Vermeer, Rembrandt and Sargent and is influenced by everything.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 133
134 • United Colours of Design Magazine
MAKEUP ARTIST UNITED KINGDOM
AMBER SIBLEY Amber Sibley
is an Oscar nominated Makeup Artist and holistic practitioner. She does light therapy and colour readings and have been doing psychic body painting for 20 years. Makeup and colour are Amber's way to connect with the energy of a person, and her intention is to empower through Conscious Beauty.
Scan for Website
This is a section of a full body-painting I did to illustrate her Lightbody. I teach Conscious Beauty and so wanted to reflect her full spectrum beauty by detailing the energy of the artwork with tiny rainbow flows, but the essence of it is about her heart and the tangible connection between us as I painted her upper heart and third eye.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 135
ARTIST AUSTRALIA
VIKTORYIA URUKOVA VIKTORYIA URUKOVA is an owner and creative director at Organicdesign.studio, focusing on branding design and consultancy. She is a self-taught artist and since working with colour mirrors started to incorporate gold into her paintings. She works with mixed media and her paintings explore animals, meditations, dreams and transformations.
Behold, the darkness is upon us. There’s not escape in any corner of the earth Behold the darkness that’s within us Is called to fight upon the veil of worth. But be aware: victory is not For the strongest or the bravest on the field, It’s not for those with power in their fortune, And of all demises, not for just. The victory does lie within each heart in eye of storm. The golden glory to see beyond the pain Is with those who learn to love again Through it all. The love that’s only found when The battles first are fought within. Then brace yourself for years to come And hold steadfast for darkness only deepens. Look up. Observe, the stars Shine brighter in the dark. The vastness of it all to wonder, awe. Hold strong. The time will come When this shall also pass But through it all one thing remains Love. The mother of compassion. The love that sparkled in your soul.
136 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Goddess of Compassion Mixed media on wood panel.
Coming Home - Acrylic & gold leaf on canvas. This painting captures an experience of a meditation. Whales are ancient wisdom keepers and bring emotional and physical healing to dive deeper into our soul. Whale and gold remind us of a bigger purpose and in the darkest of times to bring us back home to ourselves, to Divine love. Gold leaf used in this painting is highly reflective to capture and mirror the light. It also represents the ceremonial fire that appeared under water in the meditation, symbolizing the process of alchemy to create gold. Satori Acrylic on canvas
Scan for Website
The Gold Book April 2022 • 137
ARTIST SOUTH AFRICA
SHELLEY ADAMS Shelley Adams is a well-known intuitive artist with a long history in the arts and healing. Her art has become an integral part of her journey, and the medium through which she receives many of her sacred teachings. Shelley is recognized as a healer and facilitator of personal transformation.
SOUL MEDICINE Oil on canvas. This artwork was inspired as I was emerging from a particularly difficult and challenging time in my life. As I was slowly able to connect with a higher vibrational energy, the work evolved mirroring my journey, leading to the opening of my heart space again, held in divine protection and support. The baby symbolizes the creating of the new beginnings in my life.
INVOCATION Oil and mixed media on board. This artwork relates the our unlimited connection to Mother Earth and Great Spirit. The dance of our individual lives as unique expressions of the Divine, while being connected to the All.
COSMIC FLIGHT Oil on canvas.
Scan for Website
One of the artworks from my Sacred Soul Journey deck, a deck inspired by my artworks and the divine messages that they brought through. Cosmic Flight speaks of creativity and self knowledge, and claiming your truth.
ARTIST CANADA
KANELLA CIRACO Kanella Ciraco
is a worldwide known abstract and fluid artist from Toronto, Ontario. Kanella shares her knowledge and love for art with an online Scan for YouTube audience of more than 155,000 YouTube subscribers. You can find her tutorials and artwork on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.
140 • United Colours of Design Magazine
This dark and bold piece is created on a 16x40" gallery wrapped canvas. Three simple acrylic colours were used to create this piece. White, 24K Gold and Deep Gold over a Black paint base. Acrylic paints mixed with water and Floetrol create a smooth fluid paint consistency in order to blow out the colours with a hair dryer. Once dry, the piece gets a top coat of Krystal Resin, an epoxy that will leave a beautiful glass like surface.
The Gold Book April 2022 • 141
ARTIST CANADA
AMANDA PISTILLO Amanda Pistillo is a self-taught Artist with a passion for designing mixed media artwork. She has been creating ever since she was a young child, exploring the freedom and wonder of art. Her artwork is always created with the sincere hope that they provide happiness to others!
Bette Davis Medium Mixed Media Acrylic And Collage On Canvas I have always admired the strength, tenacity, courage, and power that Bette Davis possessed. My hope in creating this one-of-a-kind mixed media art piece of Bette was to showcase these beautiful qualities through my use of colours and paint techniques. In choosing the photograph of Bette to collage, I wanted to showcase her innocence and playful nature. The multiple gold painted streaks are meant to capture her strength and the abundance of light that radiates from her soul and spirit! I created this art piece with lots of love and I hope it brings people happiness!
Scan for Instagram
RAMONA KRETTEN
ARTIST CANADA
Ramona Kretten started painting a few
Scan for Instagram
years back as a hobby creating abstract block colour style paintings and glam-art. She's still growing as an artist and enjoys experimenting with different colours and styles. She hopes to inspire others that it's never too late to start what you are passionate about.
Gold, for me, represents illumination, love and prosperity. This is a fluid abstract painting on a 20 x 20 inch heavy duty gallery wrapped canvas. I used teal as background colour with copper, iridescent gold, 24 karat gold and a dash of black for the center.
This piece is done on a Cradled Wood Painting Panel 8" x 10". I used metallic light blue as background and for the center design I used Gold Vintage Glass glitter and Gold glitter.
ARTIST CANADA
KORY MARTIN kory martin
is a self-taught Canadian artist from Brantford, Ontario. I’m an abstract, mixed media creative working in acrylics, acrylic inks, alcohol inks, cold wax, oils and Scan for epoxy resin. My greatest inspirations come Instagram from nature & human experience. My new series, Universal Design, incorporates gold, exploring the Japanese method kintsugi.
Healing 48” x 36” mixed media and gold leaf on gallery stretched canvas. Inspired by the challenges of the human experience and the kintsugi method using gold to put broken pieces back together, stronger and better.
MARY JENNIFER BRAUNER
ARTIST CANADA
Since the age of 2, artist Mary Jennifer Brauner discovered the world of colour and the power of a paintbrush. Connecting the dots of life by weaving a mosaic of human culture, poetry, and music enabled her to empower herself and others to express the inexpressible through art.
Gold is the poetry of our galaxy. On this vinyl record, our connection to the inner wisdom through the sun our star at the centre in gold leaf. The starlight spreads out like feathers, each unique representing the poem of our universe. The feathers are like leaves on a vine that connect a variety of life throughout the record which that has no beginning and no end.
Scan for Instagram
The Gold Book April 2022 • 145
JEWELLERY DESIGNER CANADA
LUMA QUSUS AWAD Luma Qusus Awad was born and raised in Amman, Jordan, and is a true lover of fine art in all its forms. After having met her husband, Luma and her small family moved to Athens, Greece, where she drew much inspiration from the colours of the Mediterranean, the rich history of Europe, the beautiful souls met through her travels in addition to the magic of the Jordanian deserts. Luma now resides in Ontario, where she continues to delve deeper into the possibilities of Canadian inspired art.
Scan for Website
Having spent much of her life travelling, Inamullumani gained wide-spread, international traction. Her unique collections are in high demand all around the world, by clients who recognise her exclusive and timeless taste. Ironically enough, Luma comes from a professional background in Law, until she realised her true calling was in the arts. Although well-established today, Inamullumani had very humble beginnings as a small business, putting Luma in the face of the many hurdles of a starting entrepreneur. Today, Luma’s collections have been showcased at international exhibitions, from Paris UNESCO Head Quarters to Zappeion Megaron in Athens, Dubai and Amman Design Week in Jordan. In 2019 Luma was the award winner of Women Of Inspirations Cultural Ambassador category in Canada.
Nature inspired gold plated earrings with abalone mother of pearl and Rhodochrosite stone. Bethlehem earrings using traditional filigree gold plated wire around garnet and pearls.
146 • United Colours of Design Magazine
Mixed media earrings gold plated earrings combining tiger’s eye, agate and amazonite stones with gold leather fringes.
18k gold plated earrings over silver inspired by coral reefs
Maria Fernanda Modeling the Coral earrings. Visit Maria on Instagram @wonderferlife
Growth & Maturity gold plated earrings with Amethyst stones.
GRAPHIC DESIGN & VINTAGE SELLER CANADA
JUDY WEINBERG Judy weinberg is a graphic designer—her design practice, Grafik Essentials is based in Toronto;
she is the Art Director of The United Colours of Design Magazine; and most recently the Proprietor of Jack's Daughter of All Trades, an online vintage decor shop. Judy has a keen eye for art, design and craftsmanship. She is passionate about celebrating all types of artisans, both past and present. Gold is one of Judy's favorite colours! Gold Moriage Serving Bowl, Nippon of Japan This hand painted deeply scalloped bowl is outstanding in every way! The colours are brilliant, the painting in country blue and shades of pink is perfection, but it's the brilliant gold moriage that hits all the glam notes! The roses are so nicely detailed on the inside and the outside of the bowl. It's truly a one-of-a-kind piece of porcelain artistry, made in Japan by Nippon.
JAC K ' S DAU G H T E R
GRAFIK ESSENTIALS
Scan for Websites
RITU NEB Ritu Neb is the owner of Pure Soul Energy Dance Studio. Classes are inspired by the Bollywood
PROFESSIONAL EXPRESSIVE DANCE INSTRUCTOR CANADA
dance scene and authentic cultural moves. All are presented in a simple and age appropriate way. There is just enough challenge to get students of all levels engaged and excited. She is also a valued and award winning member of Toastmasters (District 60) and owner of Elegant Media a graphics and web design company.
UNITED
COLOURS OF DESIGN
GOLD Edition Special Production by Pure Soul Energy ‘A Journey in GOLD’ Gold is one of the seven metals of alchemy (gold, silver, mercury, copper, lead, iron & tin). For the alchemist, it represented the perfection of all matter on any level, including that of the mind, spirit, and soul. We connected 7 chakras reaching to purity and turning into gold... And connection to the higher power... A humble effort to express Gold Video
Scan for Websites
Click image to watch the production
The Gold Book April 2022 • 149