Description
Psychemagination: Into the Underworld is a visionary blend of lyrical memoir, symbolic art, and contemplative practice. Through poetic prose and evocative AI-generated imagery, Tahlia Newland guides readers on a mythic descent into the subconscious—inviting reflection, emotional insight, and creative renewal. With therapeutic art exercises woven throughout, this book becomes a mirror for those seeking transformation beyond traditional paths.
Ideal for introspective readers, creatives, and anyone curious about the patterns that shape their lives, Into the Underworld offers a rare fusion of story and self-help. It’s not just a book—it’s a journey inward.
Begin the descent. Awaken the truth. Return changed.
(This story was originally published as an audio-visual webbook set to original music by Kris Newland. Revisions of these videos will eventually be available.)
From the Introduction
‘Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.’ – Carl Jung
When I first investigated the possibility that I might be neurodivergent, I used an AI art generator to help me explore some of the concerns, memories, and images that arose in my mind. This book includes the images and story that arose as I took that journey into myself, as well as instructions to inspire others to use art in the same way. Though initially, I planned to use AI art merely to illustrate my feelings, something deeper emerged. I found that elements of the images I created in response to my introspection sparked deeper reflection that took me on a journey deep into my psyche. The word ‘psychemagination’ that I invented at the time encapsulates this combination of self-reflection and imagination expressed in art. Psychemagination is essentially the result of me using Jung’s ‘active imagination’ technique with art making expressing and deepening the reflection.
As I delved further into this process, I began to see how the images weren’t just decorative—they were mirrors. They reflected parts of myself I hadn’t yet named and sometimes hadn’t dared to look at. The act of prompting the AI, watching what emerged, and then sitting with those visual echoes of my inner world became a kind of meditation. It was raw, surprising, and often profoundly moving.
About the Author
Tahlia Newland is an award-winning author, editor, and visionary artist whose work blends metaphysical fiction, introspective art, and practical wisdom. Her novels – The Diamond Peak Series and the Prunella Smith Series – and non-fiction books on meditation, cult recovery, and writing techniques guide readers on journeys of insight and inner transformation. As founder of Alkira Publishing, she helps authors craft meaningful, high-quality books with emotional and spiritual depth. Tahlia lives in an Australian rainforest with her husband and two cheeky Burmese cats.
Charles Ray, author –
Tahlia Newland’s Psychemagination – Into the Underworld is a combination of words and pictures as she explores her neurodivergence. While the journey she describes in this fantastic collection of profound words and inspirational art is intensely personal for her, it’s also a window into the mind and psyche of us all—especially those of us who
are involved in creative endeavors.
With a collection of AI-generated art and brief, but penetrating descriptions, the author opens doors to the underworld of minds that are not wired like those of normal people,
answering the questions we’ve probably all asked ourselves at some point in our lives.
This is an amazing book. I found myself lingering over some of the images, gazing in wonder at how AI was able to translate the author’s words into such provocative pictures. At other times, I read and re-read the words, looking beyond the surface
meanings for the deeper context.
I highly recommend Psychemagination. I don’t think it’s hyperbole to say that it will change your life.
Barbara Scott Emmett –
After outlining her own journey of self-discovery, in Psychemagination: Into the Underworld, Tahlia Newland combines her experiences in meditation and art therapy to provide this useful guide to self-reflection. With a particular emphasis on neurodivergence, she shows how a journey through the unconscious can be accomplished using ancient myths and Jungian psychology. Facing the unconscious and integrating its lessons into daily life are important for healing, she suggests, as is rediscovering one’s inner child. The use of imagery is integral to this method of self-enlightenment; exercises, using either art or AI, are given which can aid visualisation. Each exercise is designed to help individuals engage with their subconscious and uncover hidden narratives.
I found the exercises in Psychemagination very easy to follow. The narrative is lucid and often poetic, and this, along with the dreamlike images, draws the reader in and induces an openness to meditation and self-reflection. Tahlia’s own story is fascinating and will resonate with others whether neurodivergent or not.
Diane Helentjaris –
With striking illustrations and clear, organized writing Tahlia Newland’s book offered me a fascinating introduction into her method of self-discovery. Ignited by her adult diagnosis of neurodivergency, she has tapped into the most modern of tools, artificial intelligence, along with the most ancient, visual art, to explore her own inner self. She then offers a template for others who wish to apply this technique to their own lives. I found the book an easy-to-read and absorb explanation of Newland’s approach. I particularly enjoyed the style of it. The color illustrations are lush and promoted imaginative thinking and the black and white sketches of the protagonist helped keep the reader on track. As a result of this interesting book, I plan to learn more about AI-generated art. This book was, for me, a good brain stretch. I received a free electronic copy and have worked with Newland in her role as publisher and editor for Alkira Publishing.