Altered States: African Ritual and Sacred Art

The Esalen Institute

September 9-13, 2024

Over the course of five days, participants were immersed in a transformative retreat blending visual art, traditional African cosmology, and ritual. Summaries of some of the sessions offered by Marques Redd are provided below.

Deep Currents: Navigating Altered States with Khonsu

Embark on “Deep Currents,” a transformative journey guided by Khonsu, the ancient Egyptian deity of the moon, meditation, and the ocean. This figure is a member of a pantheon of queer ancient Egyptian deities featured in a sculpture project entitled Myth-Science of the Gatekeepers. This workshop begins with an exploration of Khonsu’s role within this unique pantheon, which sets the stage for a profound aquatic visualization journey. Through the interplay of meditative music and immersive visuals, participants will delve into serene, fluid states of consciousness. Discover how engaging with Khonsu can expand awareness and foster a deeper connection to the subconscious realms, enhancing both personal enlightenment and collective understanding within the flow of altered states.

Dreamscapes & Ink: Crafting Consciousness Through Writing

“Dreamscapes & Ink” invites participants to explore the transformative interplay between dreaming and writing, positioned as a gateway to altered states of consciousness within African spiritual traditions. This workshop emphasizes how capturing and translating dreams into written form can deepen personal insights and spiritual connections. Participants will receive tailored prompts and engage in exercises that encourage the melding of waking thoughts with dream experiences, facilitating a unique form of self-expression. Discover how this creative process not only alters our state of mind but also connects us with broader spiritual narratives, fostering a deeper awareness and exploration of the self.

Ancestral Echoes: Navigating Altered States Through Sacred Temples

“Ancestral Echoes” offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of connecting with ancestral wisdom within sacred spaces. This workshop begins with a viewing of Blackstar Sanctuary, a virtual reality film that explores an ancient Egyptian temple. This will set the stage for meditation techniques that facilitate encounters with the ancestral realm. Participants will learn how to activate these sacred temple spaces within themselves, using them as conduits to altered states of consciousness. This session is designed to bridge the gap between the past and the present, providing tools to access inherited wisdom and enhance personal growth through the power of altered states.

Roots Reclaimed: Ancestral Gateways to Altered States

Join us in “Roots Reclaimed,” a workshop that integrates the profound traditions of African ancestor veneration with the exploration of altered states of consciousness. Learn the ancient art of pouring libations to connect with ancestors and discover how these rituals can serve as gateways to expanded awareness and deeper self-discovery. This session offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and personal transformation, providing insights into how ancestral engagement can influence our consciousness and contribute to global healing.

The Cosmic Dance of Creation: A Screening of Obi Mbu (The Primordial House)

Join us for a screening of Obi Mbu (The Primordial House), a 30-minute experimental dance film that vividly animates a Nigerian-Igbo creation myth. In a sumptuous cosmic setting, the film features the deities Eke-Nnechukwu and Chukwu, who embody the dual aspects of the primordial androgynous deity existing as the expansive blackness of space. As they dance together, a chain of irrevocable circumstances is sparked, which leads to our current world and condition. This screening provides a profound visual and emotional journey into altered states of consciousness and offers a unique intersection of mythology, dance, and cosmic spirituality.

Divine Messages: Crafting Oracles with Tehuti-Maa

Explore the mystical realm of oracles and divine wisdom in “Divine Messages,” a workshop centered around Tehuti-Maa, the ancient Egyptian deity of universal wisdom. This session invites participants into the world of oracular divination, a crucial aspect of traditional African spirituality. Participants will create their own mini-oracle decks with cards that use images from the Infinite Essence photography series of Mikael Owunna, each of which provides a potent portal for uncovering hidden messages. The workshop offers hands-on experience with and discussions of the transformative power of oracles to guide, enlighten, and offer a unique pathway to altered states of consciousness.

Sacred Grounds: Building Altars for Altered States

“Sacred Grounds” invites participants to immerse themselves in the ancient practice of altar making, a vital component of traditional African spirituality designed to bridge the visible and spiritual realms. This workshop explores the significance of altars as tools for transformation and connection, offering insights into their creation and use to access altered states of consciousness. Participants will engage with the natural beauty and energy of Esalen to collaboratively construct a collective altar, creating a physical and spiritual space that encourages deeper interaction with the mystical. Learn to harness the power of sacred spaces to elevate spiritual awareness and foster a profound connection with the unseen forces that shape our existence.