Meet the Artist – Isa Barrios –

I want to share a journey that began for me in an unexpected yet magical way, one that unfolded with profound purpose and healing. It all started at the Moon Mná Festival 2022, a place alive with the energies of powerful female leaders, sacred rituals, and vibrant sisterhood. In that space, among ceremonies, breathwork, and card readings, one experience changed me: a rose healing session with Celine Florence. As she opened my heart chakra, a radiant pink light filled my vision, flooding me with an intense energy that felt like a beacon. For the first time, I felt my spirit beyond my thoughts, an energy in my hands that was both new and urgently seeking expression.

Then, during an Akashic Records reading, my guides nudged me towards drawing—something I hadn’t done since childhood. It surprised me, but also sparked something inside. As I picked up a pencil again, I was immediately reconnected with my inner child and a forgotten joy. Drawing became a way to heal, to create from a place of pure authenticity. Each illustration felt like a channeling of that beautiful energy, and soon enough, I realized my drawings had a name—Lola. She represents many sides of womanhood: playfulness, freedom, mindfulness, balance, and calm.

Let me talk to you about Lola. Lola embodies the essence of every woman reconnecting with her inner child, her strength, balance, calm, and playfulness. She is a symbol of the spirit guides that gently lead us, the nurturing love we hold, and our deep sensitivity. Society often tells us to grow up, be responsible, and conform. But we are so much more than that; we are our own scenes, dancing uniquely, each of us beautiful in our own ways. This is why I created Lola—to capture the energy of my clients in a gentle, beautiful manner, to remind us all of the importance of connecting deeply with our own inner beauty and curiosity.

Each time I sit to draw Lola, I do so with rituals that ground me: a cup of my favorite cacao from Saoró, with cinnamon, and a quiet moment seeking guidance from my fairy oracle cards. The Celtic Wheel of the Year helps me channel the energy of each season into my art. Right now, I am inspired by Cailleach, the wise old woman guiding us inward as winter approaches, and you’ll see a quieter, introspective tone in my recent pieces. This journey has taught me to honor our cycles, to see and celebrate the beauty in each of our unique energies.

Living here in Ireland, a place that feels like my soul’s home, has deepened this journey even more. Outside my spiritual practice, I’m also deeply connected to my “inner sweet child.” This is the part of me that delights in drawing cakes, playing with colors, and creating things that simply make me smile. You might not think of cake illustrations as spiritual, but for me, they absolutely are. It’s about following what brings pure joy, letting myself be unapologetically playful. Drawing cakes feels whimsical and healing, a sweet reminder to savor life’s small joys. I see it as a way to honor a simpler, purer kind of spirituality—one that isn’t always serious or separate from creativity, but rather deeply intertwined with it.

So, here’s my message: create what makes you smile. Whatever form it takes—drawing, baking, dancing—let yourself be playful and joyful. Life’s sweetness is something we all deserve to taste, and in embracing it, we honor our own unique paths.

Thank you for being here, reading this far, and supporting my journey. Please remember how unique you are, imperfections and all, and know that each step we take is a testament to our courage and growth. To all the incredible women who have touched my heart, like Celine Florence, Lorraine Hogan Festival Mná, and the powerful Moon Mná community—thank you.

With all my heart and creativity, I am stepping onto this path as an illustrator and creative mentor. If my story resonates with you, I’d love to hear what part made you spark. If you feel the call to have your own Lola with your beautiful essence please email me to isabel.barrios.rios(at)gmail.com, or find me on www.isabarrios.com or @Isa Barrios (soyisabarrios) 

Le grá agus míle buíochas!

Isa