You Are Welcome to Visit the Elemental Shrines During Sunwise Celebrations

For each of the four seasons we invite you to celebrate the essence of the season, Sunwise Celebrations, with an event that will inspire a deeper connection with the earth and your creativity. Last winter we dedicated  shrines to each of the four elements as places for contemplation. The winter was long, but quite beautiful for photographing them. 

Winter Scene of the Water Shrine, Earth & Fire Shrines in the distance at Sunwise Farm & Sanctuary

The Water shrine is prominent in the foreground. Water is of particular importance to me, having lived for 30 years in Colorado where I acquired extreme water conservation practices that survive in me even though there is plenty of water, as seen in the next photo, just taken. I was thinking of water when I created several Talismans for Water, naturally.

Beyond the driveway, past the three forsythia bushes is the Earth Shrine. It is a circle of eight Ash trees we brought from Colorado sixteen years ago. They surround a small Medicine Wheel. Here I practice the Eight Directional Exercises from the Tao. I can show you how – it’s simple and quick. I was thinking of the earth when I created several Talismans for Earth. Our lifestyle is all about integrating art, gardening, honoring the earth and philosophy, and sharing this.

Beyond that you can barely make out a bench that is next to the Fire Shrine, where we have bonfires on occasion.

Spring Scene of the Water Shrine, Earth & Fire Shrines in the distance at Sunwise Farm & Sanctuary

The Water Shrine is overflowing right now, you can barely see it in two places, right and left. My cistern is overflowing also, the cause of great joy. Good time to do laundry.

Winter Scene of the Air Shrine on Top of the Hill at Sunwise Farm & Sanctuary

The air shrine is at two trees, with Tibetan Prayer Flags, at the highest spot on the land. Connecting with this place inspired Talisman for Air, which is easier to see the art version, below, than in the photo of the trees. It and Talisman for Fire is still on exhibit until April 28 at MS Rezny Studio/Gallery.

“Talisman for Air”, MM Collage, detail, by Kathleen O’Brien, 20 x 20″

“Talisman for Air”, MM Collage, by Kathleen O’Brien, 20 x 20″

“Talisman for Fire”, MM Collage, detail, by Kathleen O’Brien, 20 x 20″

“Talisman for Fire”, MM Collage, by Kathleen O’Brien, 20 x 20″

When you come to the next Sunwise Celebration, which is about “Spiritual Gardening” with guest master gardener, Fox Hutt, please feel welcome to visit the shrines. She will have a guest post here next week. To attune us to the rhythms of the earth I will beat my Arapaho Drum, made by Eagle Robe.

Arapaho Drum with Spring Flowers & Rose Hearts 1 by Kathleen O’Brien

And if you cannot come this time, keep checking the event page for the next one, scheduled at mid-season, four times a year. Or contact us if you want to visit on a whim, we’re here working outside or in the studio most times.