Birds
Freedom, guidance and the connection between sky and earth.
CARVINGS
Ancient Symbols, Living Meanings
Wood carving and the creation of talismans associated with birds and their feathers have deep roots in many cultures.
Shinto Influence
Harmony with our surroundings and protection through the spirits.
Andean Cultures
Ancient symbols that continue to guide, protect and carry meaning.
MESSAGES TO THE SPIRIT
Prayer Feathers
For more than two thousand years, Pueblo people — descendants of the Ancestral Puebloans — have carved figures and used prayer feathers as a conduit for messages to the Great Spirit. Prayer feathers are also used in blessings and healing, drawing power from the sky and establishing a spiritual bond for the traveler.
PROTECTION IN MANY FORMS
Talismans
My talismans represent birds such as the crow, condor, eagle and hummingbird. Maiden figures from Ancestral Puebloan and Andean cultures accompany these power-based talismans with ideas of protection for the home and community.
POWER FROM THE SKY
Andean Symbolism
Andean talismans are associated with spiritual expression and belief. The condor and eagle carry ideas of power, freedom, wisdom and leadership. My carvings carry beliefs in guidance, protection, health and good fortune — safe travel.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Shinto Connection
Each carving is enriched by a relationship to Shinto beliefs in protection by the spirits. The torii marks a passage into sacred space, while the characters 交通安全 express a wish for safety in travel.
LIVING WITH THE WORK
How I Use Them and View My Work
At home, my prayer feathers and talismans are art pieces that hang on the wall. When traveling, I wear a prayer feather as a connection with the spirits and carry a special talisman in my backpack. At my destination, I place them in the room to cleanse and clear the space. It is remarkable how different the room feels afterward.
Carvings can be seen at Martha Gallery in Cuenca. Every piece is one of a kind, carved and painted by hand during my travels.
