A spirit house, a shrine, an altar – each is a manmade object that offers a portal to the unknown. Throughout the world, both in ancient times and now, spirit houses have allowed peoples and cultures to actively engage in a dialogue between their beliefs and the mysterious natural forces that surround them.

Throughout my travels I have seen these iconic structures take many forms, from the most primitive pile of rocks to the most elaborate golden altar inside a Buddhist temple. What is true for all of these, however, is that their presence and power comes from the active engagement and belief of the people who build and use them.

In this, our rock and roll culture of the 21st century, many of us have rejected organized religion. An unintended consequence of this disaffection is that we have lost the opportunity to experience the power and effect that ritual, reverence and mystery can have on our daily lives.

Working outside of the parameters of organized religion, my goal is to create works that still resonate with the reverent presence of spirit. In building these spirit houses, I am hoping to provide a fresh vehicle for people’s spiritual expression and discovery.

Our perceptions define our reality. Spirit houses provide a focus and a repository for our spiritual attention and energy. Engaging with a spirit house every day — bringing flowers, burning incense — can open our eyes to mysterious possibilities and new potentials. The more our hearts are touched and our deep feelings stirred in the presence of these works, the more the work is fed by our energy. This give and take of inspiration creates a state in which both the viewer and the object are constantly transformed. This is true magic and true mystery.

Please email me if you would like to commission me to make an altar for you.

Coming soon are  images of various altars and spirit house’s I have made for ceremonies, communities, and individuals.