Earth Works

I have always been drawn, in a complete all encompassing way, to earth monuments of the past: tumuli, mounds, megalithic arrangements of stones, pyramids and towers. Some function as geodetic markers indicating place on earth, some as astronomical observatories studying position and pattern in the Universe. Some have evolved to become altars, shrines, and temples. They have become or always were our sacred buildings.

One expression of such a building is the Buddhist Stupa. Stupas are powerful textural conditions of structure, space, color, light, and form.  They are buildings of content and intention, symbols of knowledge, statements of truth and understanding. Stupas are known to inspire people, energize land, remove obstacles and promote peace and compassion. Designed and built according to ceremonial order, many Stupas contain relics and written prayers. My study of Stupas and my own experience building with earth has led me as a sculptor to begin my present exploration of reliquaries and a laymen’s form of Stupa.

A reliquary is a repository or time capsule, a place safeguarded by focused concentration.  It is also like the alchemist’s crucible – a place for transformation and future manifestation.  Reliquary #1 may be used as an actual cremation urn.  It has a sealable internal chamber of 220 cubic inches. It may also be used as a repository for one’s own sacred objects, heirlooms, records, pictures or writings. Simply, anything one would desire to enshrine for safekeeping and honoring within this conscious place.

Stupa of World Peace is a laymen’s monument that I have dedicated to world peace. It contains within its earthen body a metal chamber in which is placed a repetitive scroll. This scroll is a compilation of old and new prayers, vows, poems, and aspirations for peace. It is printed on continuous roll of paper upon which the entire compilation repeats every 22 inches. This work is in response to the recent events in the world and my own recognition of the significance of inner and outer peace.

It is my intention to continue this series of transportable sculptures, as well as larger “site built” works of various shapes and configurations dedicated to select themes and purposes.

Detail of the scoll that is rolled within

Overview of the scoll