Life & Work with Tatiana Harumi of Lake Forest

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tatiana Harumi

Hi Tatiana, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hi! I’m Tati Harumi, a Brazilian-born artist with a deep love for California, which has been my home since 2015. I’m a mandala artist, and my journey as an artist has evolved over time, with both my personal and spiritual growth.

As an introverted child, I found solace in painting. I’d spend hours creating small works of art, purely for the joy of it. But as I grew older, life took me in different directions, and my passion for painting was put aside. It wasn’t until later in life that I rediscovered my love for art.

The spark was reignited when a friend brought some arts and crafts supplies for us to spend time together. This simple act opened the door to painting once again. I started with small landscapes, trying to capture the beauty of nature in my own way. But I soon realized something was missing—I was searching for a deeper connection, not just through the brushstrokes, but through the art itself.

The real turning point came when I was on a deep spiritual journey, seeking a stronger connection with the universe. I am part of a Brazilian community in LA and attend an Afro-Brazilian Temple in Inglewood. In 2023, during a time of profound self-awareness and immersion in spiritual practices at Temple, I encountered mandalas. I was immediately drawn to their symmetrical beauty and the balance they embodied. But it wasn’t just the aesthetics that captivated me—it was the spiritual and healing energy they represented.

I began painting mandalas for friends and family, and their encouragement led me to start my own art business. Since then, I’ve created several commissioned mandalas, each with its own unique theme and shipped them across the globe. As I shared my creative process on social media—everything from selecting color palettes to adding crystals to the paintings—my work began to gain attention, and I’ve been able to connect with a growing audience.

I am very grateful for the many opportunities I have had to share my art with the world. Since I started, I have created a collection inspired by Amazon rainforest and dedicated part of the art sales for reforestation work in Brazil, launched online workshops, art prints shop and had art exhibitions.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I began painting mandalas, I faced challenges in merging my spiritual journey with my art. As I was channeling energy into my work, I had to learn how to trust my intuition and embrace the process of painting without trying to control it. There were moments of self-doubt where I questioned whether my art was “good enough” or if it was truly conveying the energy I was trying to express. It took time to feel comfortable with painting purely from intuition, and it was a process of learning to let go of perfectionism and embrace the unique flow of each mandala.

Another challenge has been finding the balance between the business side of being an artist and the creative side. Art is my passion, but turning it into a sustainable business comes with its own set of obstacles—marketing, pricing, and managing logistics while staying true to my creative vision. It was tough at times to find the right balance, but over time, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges by staying focused on what really matters: the connection between my art and the people it resonates with.

Despite these struggles, I’ve learned so much along the way. Every challenge has helped me grow, not just as an artist, but as a person. And the support from my husband, my temple community, and my mandala community has been incredibly uplifting, reminding me that the journey is as important as the destination.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a mandala artist specializing in creating intricate geometrical and floral designs. A mandala is a spiritual and symbolic representation of the universe, often used as a tool for meditation, self-reflection, and healing. My work is unique in that I incorporate symbols captured through energy channeling, blending spirituality and artistry. I paint each mandala intuitively, which means I don’t repeat designs or follow strict patterns. Every piece is created in the moment, guided by the energy I’m feeling and the symbols that come to me, making each mandala one-of-a-kind. I also draw inspiration from nature, finding beauty in its patterns, colors, and forms to inform my designs and bring a sense of harmony to my work.

What sets me apart from others is this fusion of energy work with traditional mandala art. While many mandala artists focus on the geometric patterns themselves, my approach goes beyond the visual. I channel symbols that represent different spiritual concepts or energies, which adds a unique layer of depth and meaning to my work.

I’m most proud of the way my art has impacted others. People often share with me how my pieces help them feel more centered, grounded, or even inspired. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that something I create can facilitate such meaningful connections!

You can find more information about my work on my website and instagram.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Yes I’ve had amazing instructors who taught me various technical skills, from fine art artists to mandala specialists. These instructors have equipped me with a solid foundation in both classical and modern techniques, which has been crucial in refining my artistic process. Their teachings have helped me understand the intricacies of composition, color theory, and the geometry behind mandalas, giving me the tools to elevate my craft.

I’m also deeply grateful for my husband Daniel, who has been incredibly influential in my journey. As a graduate of fine arts, his feedback on my work is invaluable. His perspective often helps me refine my designs and take my work to new creative levels. Beyond that, his constant belief in me and my art has been a steady source of motivation.

My community at the temple has also been a huge support. Their encouragement and the spiritual connection I share with them have played a significant role in my creative journey. It’s a reminder of the deeper purpose behind my art, which keeps me aligned with my true intentions.

Additionally, my mandala community has been such a positive force in my life. They cheer me on and lift me up, offering constant encouragement and celebrating each milestone with me. This community has not only helped me grow as an artist but also made me feel like I’m part of something much larger, which has been incredibly fulfilling.

Lastly, my clients have also been a huge part of my success. I’m grateful for the individuals who not only purchase my art but also share their experiences with me about how my mandalas have affected them emotionally or spiritually. Their feedback helps me stay grounded and inspires me to keep evolving.

Altogether, these people have played an essential role in my journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for their contributions to both my personal and professional growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aiyramandala.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aiyra.mandalas/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AiyraMadeinBrazil

Image Credits
Dani Garbe