Interview: ASTRO-X-RAY

First published in online Stellar, a free astrology magazine: https://www.astrologicalassociation.com/stellar/

Q: When did you first realise that astrology had completely taken possession of you – if indeed it has?

KM: I became interested in astrology in my early teens. It was not until I discovered that there was more to astrology than Sun signs that I started thinking about it more seriously and looking for sources to study from. I started by reading astrology books as well as looking through online sources – astrology websites and YouTube channels. Some years after this initial interest started developing, I wanted to formalise my studies and enrolled at the Faculty of Astrological Studies in London, which resulted in gaining the Faculty Diploma.

I believe it is important to keep a healthily balanced approach when it comes to engaging with astrology. A passion for learning as much as possible is of course commendable, but I think it is crucial to note the danger of spending more time studying and contemplating astrological significators than actually engaging with life in a (pro)active manner.

Q: Where do you live and work? Which country? Briefly describe your office and the view from the principal window, if any.

KM: I come from Montenegro, where I currently live. I spent my university years living in the Netherlands. I travel a lot, which is probably not surprising given my Sun and Moon in Gemini in the 9th house. Fortunately, when it comes to astrology, a lot can be done online, whether that be writing or online client consultations. When it comes to my working space, while being in a city centre, it has a view to an open space with a lot of greenery, which I really appreciate.

Q: Name one feature of your birth chart that stands out as a major trait – and is known to loved ones, less so to acquaintances.

KM: There is a mutual reception between my Moon in Gemini and Mercury in Cancer. I find it points to a mutually supportive blend of the intellect and emotional expression. It is often described as a combination that indicates a heightened intuition and emotional intelligence. My Mercury in Cancer could be said to have quite a ‘pure expression’ in that it only makes one aspect – a sextile with Saturn. When remembering how I was as a child, my family members point out that I seemed wiser and possibly more emotionally mature than my age, which may be what these astrological significators highlight.

Q: How did you learn the astro art/ trade? Who/what inspired your interest?

KM: My interest was sparked once I became aware of the existence of natal charts and began studying my own, coming to see the powerful resonances between the astrological symbolism and lived experience. My astrological knowledge and skill developed from a blend of individual study combined with studies at the Faculty of Astrological Studies, as well as the practice of giving consultations. I believe practice is crucial for developing skill in communicating astrology in a way that is accessible and genuinely useful to the client.

Q: Last year you were awarded the Faculty of Astrological Studies’ esteemed Diploma, as you have said. How did you find the course? Was it demanding? And were you working as well?

KM: Becoming a Diploma holder of the Faculty of Astrological Studies represents a truly significant milestone in my journey of studying astrology. The study program is both demanding and highly rewarding. Completing the nine modules into which the program is divided and passing the exams requires a lot of work and dedicated effort, truly contributing to the development of a well-rounded astrologer, skilled in natal astrology, various prediction techniques, as well as synastry, astrocartography and mundane astrology. A lot of attention is also paid to building a good understanding of working with clients and the ethics of astrological work.

When I started studying with the Faculty I was also a full-time university student. Balancing the two was sometimes challenging, but possible with good organisation.

Q: You won two scholarships during your studies. Tell us about them.

KM: First, I won a scholarship for attending the annual conference of the Astrological Association. This was my first contact with the AA and my first conference. It was an exciting week of full immersion in astrology. I truly enjoyed it. The second scholarship was for the Sophia Centre (University of Wales) course on Chinese astrology, which I found quite interesting as a departure from the astrology I normally engage with. Finally, I was also awarded a scholarship for the American NORWAC conference, with which I had a great experience.

Q: What is your long-term aim? To be a full-time astrologer? A teacher? Which branch of astrology interests you most?

KM: I engage with astrology through various forms of expression – speaking, writing, working with clients. Refining and improving my ability in all of these areas is a constant goal. As someone who loves learning, I find the idea of continuous self-improvement motivating and exciting. I have not yet been in a teaching position, but there is a possibility that I may soon step into this role.

When it comes to astrology branches, my preferred focus is on natal astrology. Synastry is another area I find highly interesting. Various predictive/timing techniques are also part of my practice.

Through various forms of activity, I am also active in the field of culture, music and fashion. I graduated in Arts and Culture from Maastricht University in the Netherlands. I strive to successfully combine these fields, allowing myself the freedom of versatile expression and growth.

Q: Do you think astrology has a divinatory component? And if so, how will this work as astro-AI gets more sophisticated?

KM: It is difficult to deny a divinatory component in astrology, which is possibly most evident in horary practice. Depending on the type of astrology practised and the approach of the individual astrologer, the divinatory aspect is possibly more or less pronounced.

When it comes to AI, while it is fairly good at providing interpretations of single chart factors, it generally seems less able to make a good synthesis of the different astrological factors combined, especially when it comes to features of the chart which are seemingly contradicting each other. This is where I would say the human astrologer continues to have a very important advantage. The role of intuition and emotional intelligence, as well as the personalised approach and the special rapport created between an astrologer and a client, are also factors which are potentially more difficult to artificially simulate.

Q: Which astrological software program do you use? Ever hand-draw charts?

KM: I currently use the most recent version of Solar Fire. I do also have experience with calculating and hand-drawing charts, as this is part of the mandatory curriculum at the Faculty. For time concerns, I do not practise this often, although I would say there is something valuable to be gained from this practice (other than a greater sense of appreciation for software). While drawing the chart by hand, I fi nd it is possible to experience a closer sense of connection to its contents, which may potentially lead to more profound interpretations.

Q: Have you ever seen a ghost? If so, please tell all.

KM: I have not. If I ever was in the presence of one, it was to the lack of my knowledge (which I must say I appreciate, as I have no desire to seek that kind of interaction).

Q: Karla, would you say you are powerful

KM: At the risk of sounding arrogant, I would say yes. Unfortunately, power is often associated with a variety of morally questionable behaviours and misuse of authority. I connect power to the ability and freedom to make choices, whether they seem big or small, on a daily basis. Even though we sometimes take it for granted, we are constantly involved in the act of (co-)creating the reality of our lived experience. Being aware of this creative ability is in itself immensely powerful.

Q: And finally, how do people get hold of you?

KM: My website is currently undergoing a reconstruction (which may actually be completed once this issue is published) but you can reach me through the following e-mail address: karlamiranovic@outlook.com.