FEATHER FAN WORKSHOP

I am offering a sacred space and my guidance to explore the 'wisdom of feathers' and make a smudge fan or a smudge feather along the way. At this instructional workshop, you will be supported in the creation of your fan, and more importantly, learn about traditional and contemporary understandings of the 'meaning of feathers'; proper handling and care; understandings shaped by diverse cultural awareness; and also tune in to your own intuitive cognitions with the nature of this offering.

All materials are inclusive, including feathers, natural and coloured hide, crystals, beads, etc. You are also welcome to bring your own special feather or decorative element if you have one to include in your creation.

Duration of the workshop: 2 hours

Investment: $ 120 

MEANING OF FEATHERS

The meaning of feathers plays an important role in the awareness of many cultures. Most understanding embodies the spiritual idea that all natural things within the universe, including birds, have spirit forms. That spirit exists not only in humans, but also in birds — who imprint their fluidal energy onto their feathers — and in animals, plants, and all living beings. The doctrine is that everything is alive, and possesses an inherent virtue, power and wisdom.

The generalized meaning of feathers signifies honour, and connects the carrier with Creation and with the bird whose feather it came from. Feathers are perceived as gifts from the sky, the sea and the trees. They arrive unexpectedly, but not without purpose.

Birds were revered as bringers of messages and symbols of change, often embodying light-hearted freedom. Their feathers carry many spiritual, ceremonial and ritual uses. Decorated feathers were sometimes attached to sacred objects and tools. In the ancient cultures and traditions of First Nations, the meaning of feathers is inextricably tied to the understanding that birds, as spirit guides, appear through different stages of life to a person — teaching, guiding, and in some instances protecting them.

The meaning of birds and their feathers carries great significance, as they are considered to possess Creational energetic powers that can embody, attach to, and influence a person — empowering them with the powerful traits, attributes and characteristics of the bird.

Over the course of this workshop, we will also discuss the meanings of various birds and explore the significance of each bird's attributes and symbolism, along with the purpose, teachings and proper ways of smudging and handling sacred objects.

All ages are invited to attend this fun feather-crafting afternoon at SpiralGate of Art & Wellbeing.

— Biljana Webb