What makes a work of art spiritual? How do you make a building transmit the uplifting qualities of the sacred? What is the relationship between the evolution of culture and the creation of sacred objects and structures? To find out, WIE‘s Ross Robertson speaks with acclaimed visionary artist Alex Grey, whose intricate, expansive canvases convey the cosmic scope and spiritual dimension of human life.

Grey begins by describing his recent visits to Damanhur, an extraordinary example of contemporary sacred space. Built into the side of a mountain in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Damanhur is the creation of a unique spiritual vision, brought to life with unparalleled levels of design and craftsmanship, and supported by an inspired and ongoing communal effort. Like the great cathedrals of old, this modern day temple to the universal sacred impulse serves as a permanent reminder of our higher purpose and untapped human potential.

According to Grey, the Temples of Damanhur and his own Temple of Sacred Mirrors in New York, serve as examples and reminder of just what’s possible even in our contemporary secular society when people come together to create something truly meaningful and of lasting beauty.

Listen to the audio at What Is Enlighenment? website .

For more informaiton, visit www.alexgrey.com

by Alex Grey

His book, The Mission of Art, traces the evolution of human consciousness through art history, exploring the role of an artist's intention and conscience, and reflecting on the creative process as a spiritual path. Transfigurations is Alex's second large format monograph containing over 300 color and black & white images of Grey's work. Sounds True has released The Visionary Artist, a CD of Grey's reflections on art as a spiritual practice. ARTmind is the artist's recent video exploring the healing potential of Sacred Art. Grey co-edited the book, Zig Zag Zen: Buddhism and Psychedelics (Chronicle Books, 2002). (http://www.wie.org/bios/alex-grey.asp)

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