ABOUT - Working process & Background | MjaUniversum

Working process

When I create the astrological portraits, I follow a multi-step process. I begin by generating and analyzing the horoscope for the individual. In addition to focusing on the “big three” (sun, moon, and ascendant), I look for other notable aspects that deserve attention. This might include planets closely aligned with the big three or a stellium (multiple planets grouped together) in the same sign. Every detail helps me create a very personal piece of art that reflects that persons’ horoscope. With that information I get a picture in my mind of how I want to build the painting and what colors to use (if the buyer didn’t decide on something special). Then I start working on the paper.

I start by finding the center of the paper so that I can creates the best balance.
Then I do a sketch of the whole image.
After that I move on to markers to make all the outlining.
And then it’s time to work with the coloring. This is my favorite part.
As a last step in the coloring process I add the metallic colors.
I then go over the outlines again with the marker where it's needed.
If the buyer ordered gold leaf on the painting now is when I add that.
I finishing up everything by writing the description so the person who’s getting the painting will know what everything means. (NOTE: Not a horoscope)

Entrence and a motorcyle

A motorcycle at the entrence

Motorcycle tires

Motorcycle tires

Background

My name is Mamoni, but my friends call me “Mjau” (Swedish meow), so you can call me that as well. Hence the name MjaUniversum (Universum meaning universe in swedish).
I have a passion for art and astrology, and for the past few years, I have combined these two loves by creating magical artwork that brings joy into people's lives.
I’m a bit of a multitasker have schooling as a horse groomer, personal trainer, masseur, motorcycle mechanic and full stack software developer. Besides all of this I have worked as a stripper and performer for many years. Something that I really have enjoyed.Today, I've traded high heels for a more grounded life and proudly call myself a witch, artist, and feline friend.
In addition to all of my working education I have also studied art for a full year (and some smaller workshops and classes), and being a creative person is something that has always been with me. During my darkest times in life (when I had self injurious-behavior) art has been by my side as a way to vent what I couldn't say in words and helped me keep my head above the surface. After a long break from painting I found my way back to art again after my mothers passing in 2015, with the help and inspiration of a dear friend. I got a great interest in sewing as well, and for some time I had a small shop and atelier in Östersund where I grew up.

Today
Today I live a child free with my husband, cat and motorcycle in a house in the forest outside of Knutby. Here I got nature right outside my door, which I think is really nice. I love feeling closeness to the elements and to be able to step outside on a clear night with my telescope and look at the stars.

The witches closet
I took my first really serious steps into magic and witchcraft in spring 2020 (which later turned out to be my north nodal return, if you’re an astrogeek you know what I’m talking about), and since then it is more or less part of my everyday life. My magical practice is living with the wheel of the year, following the cycles of the moon and blood, reading tarot, working with the energies of astrology, and working with plants and herbs both magical and medicinal. I love to create rituals and ceremonies during the new/full moon and the witches sabbats. Sometimes something small like just sitting in meditation and pulling a card from my deck is enough. Other times I like to go all in and carefully pick out crystals and plants, create magical sigils and maybe do some vaginal steaming.
I have a deep belief that all living creatures are connected, and that how we choose to live our life has an impact on how we feel. By finding stillness within us we will find it easier to meet our challenges and work with universal energy instead of feeling like we’re swimming against the stream. Magic has helped me to find my flow, my trust and given me the tools to handle the loss of the people and animals that have been closest to me.
The history of the witches (women) is close to my heart and I am deeply moved by it. I have visited a few of the execution spots in Sweden from during the witch trials. I believe that talking about what happened to them and lifting their history is a very important part of being a modern witch.

Häxan Mjau