These spirit houses are a unique interpretation of the spirit houses in Thai culture and are also inspired by ancient folklore and pagan practices. Made of recycled timber they reinforce the idea that beauty and spirituality exist in everything. During times of enforced isolation spirituality became a more meaningful part of my life and I became intrigued by the idea of providing a home for spirit and what this might mean. Spirituality is without time and physicality. When experiencing pain and challenges this concept brings me peace. These spirit houses represent the beauty and safety of that peace.

Recycled timber, acrylic paint, ceramic, gold leaf

For availability please see my online shop.

The moon has always symbolized our awe and wonderment at something greater than ourselves, that there exists something that is just beyond our reach.

I moved from an industrial area in Melbourne to a wonderfully bushy, beach side suburb in Lake Macquarie. For years I have performed moon rituals and ceremony on the beach twice a month, honoring the full and new moons with a group of local women. During isolating and anxiety filled lockdowns the moon has provided us with consistent monthly ritual, guidance, connection and devotion. The moon grounds and enriches us and puts everything into perspective.

Traditionally the moon is a powerful feminine symbol and worshipping the moon is a tangible way to safely engage with and honor being a woman.

My intention has been to capture the luminosity and powerful energy of the full moon as she rises over the ocean. It is a sacred time of release and gratitude, when the seeds we have sewn are growing and our truths are exposed. The full, incandescent light shows us what we must let go of in order to live our truth. We are called to be courageous. We are invited to shine.

Watching the moon rise over the ocean is one of the most magical experiences for me and never fails to fill me with awe. “Look at the moon!” I cry because I often feel I need witnesses to this marvelous, other-worldly magic. The moon takes us back into our childhood selves, invites us to be present in the moment, and connects us in our wonderment to one another, across all continents and throughout history.

Making the Moon paintings and then exhibiting has been empowering and healing. Come what may, the moon will rise and she is utterly glorious.

This body of work has been inspired by the Moon and explores the concept of art as devotion. The paintings and popular moon shrines provide a meditative journey into the cosmos. Worlds of magic beckon contemplation of the power of what is larger and open a portal to our deeper knowing.

This particular work represents spiritual awakening and is based upon a dream.

In a dark forest with a night full of stars, I looked down into a dark pool and fell inlove with the universe inside me.

This is a series of work that explores the relationship between two forms and how they are affected by shape and space. I have developed an abstract visual language to express a deeper, spiritual feeling. Underlying the work is a sense of magic, wonder and movement, reflecting the experience of impermanence and drive for connection and renewal.

The birds are strangely beautiful, otherworldly messengers. They are made with tenderness and courage. They flow and are unique. I am focused on overlapping two birds and seeking harmony in their exchange. The desire to connect, to know and feel truly known and loved by another. I want to experience two forms flying and dancing together in synchronization while retaining distinct individuation.

A river runs its inevitable course. A symbol of the great flow of life itself. It begins at Source and returns to Source, every single time, without exception. We are no different. Water contains darkness and beauty. I’ve never completely arrived at a destination until I’ve been in the water, if only to receive a blessing and give thanks with my feet.

This work is based on the shapes of water and land I observed at Horse Shoe beach, where the Hunter River meets the sea.

The patterns caused by wind can be mesmerising.

From my kitchen table I can stare out at the bush as it swooshes around in hypnotic patterns. Sometimes a heaving, dancing mass of chaos and beauty.

I can feel what's happening outside on my inside. Still chaos, but contained.

All ceramics are unique, created with hands and heart, and have been energetically cleansed, moon bathed and imbued with love and magic.

They are available to purchase online and in person.

Contact alanya.vdw@gmail.com

Birds

The birds are beautiful soul messengers and are intended to be used for guidance and protection. They can be hung like a talisman on a wall, above a mirror, over a door or placed on a table top or on your own unique altar.

Moon Shrines

Instructions:

Place moon shrine in the light of a full moon.

See the moonlight pass through, creating your very own private moon puddle or moon bath.

Get in.

Make a wish.

Let everything holding you back, go.

Release.

Give thanks.

Feel the BIG LOVE.

Remember that magic is real and wishes do come true, often in unexpected ways.

Sigils

Sigils are symbols that hold powerful energy and meaning. Each is unique and you’ll find particular ones speak to you. They can be hung in your space, used as part of your alter arrangement or as part of ritual eg. moon gathering.

Ask me about my intuitive sigils that I make especially tailored for your personal manifestations.

All available for purchase.

See shop (often being updated) and send me your enquiries.

Please email enquiries to Alanya.vdw@gmail.com