Wood carving, creating a talisman associated with birds and their feathers has deep roots in many cultures. Providing protection in its many forms my carvings have their origins in the prehistoric Anasazi and Andean cultures and in Japan’s ancient connection to our surroundings spiritual tradition, Shintoism. In the Americas, for more than 2,000 years, the Pueblo people, descendants of the Anasazi have carved figures and used the prayer feather as a conduit to carry messages directly to the ‘great’ spirit. The Andean talisman like the Anasazi carvings are associated with spiritual expressions and beliefs. In particular my carvings carry the beliefs of guidance, protection, power, health, and good fortune – safe travel.
Talismans are carved representing birds like the crow, condor, eagle, and hummingbird. Maiden carvings from the Anasazi and Andean cultures accompany and compliment the power based talisman with protection for the home and community. Prayer feathers communicate and are used in blessings and in healing. Drawing power from the sky, in all cultures they establish a spiritual bond for the traveler. In particular the Andean condor and the eagle are a symbol of power carrying the belief of freedom, wisdom and leadership – safe travel.
All carvings are enhanced with a relationship to Shinto beliefs of protection by the spirits, represented by
交通安全 .
How I use them and view my work
When at home my prayer feathers and talismans are like art pieces, hanging on the wall and decorating my house. When traveling, I wear my prayer feather as a connection with the spirits and I carry a special talisman in my backpack. When I reach my destination they are placed in the room to cleanse and clear the space. Its amazing how different the room feels afterward.
Carvings can be seen at Martha Gallery in Cuenca. All carvings are one of a kind, hand carved and painted during my travels.
