(This page is a proposal for the Deep Space Exhibit at Psychedelic Science 2025 and only accessible through the link provided.)

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The Sacred Fire is an interactive 12’ diameter artificial fire surrounded by comfortable seating at the heart of Deep Space. This immersive installation is a de-programmed space for ceremony, storytelling, song, and authentic connection. 

 

Gathering around a tribal fire is ingrained in our fiber as humans. It is where our ancestors have communed since time immemorial to share wisdom through ceremony, song, and stories passed down from generation to generation. In our current construct, the tribal fire surfaces in our most authentic spaces. They are integral aspects of shamanic ceremonies, festivals, and family campouts where we’ve spent intentional time and effort to retreat from the daily grind and reconnect with ourselves and with nature.

 

At its essence a sacred fire is the hearth, a source of warmth and community, our earliest form of shelter from the rugged wilderness; we are instinctively drawn to and captivated by it. Fire commands respect, and represents the endless cycle of destruction and rebirth. In these spaces we understand intuitively that it is not the most charismatic personality that is given the limelight, but the voices of experience that are respected, and where wisdom is cherished above all else. 

 

It is no small task to create this type of environment indoors and without the ability to include real flames. Had the Deep Space exhibit been connected to an outdoor area there is no doubt that an actual fire would have already been incorporated in some way. It will take experimentation and a combination of complimentary mediums to achieve an engaging environment. This immersive installation will need to reach deep down into the intuitive part of our psyche reserved for our ancestral way of gathering. But through artistry, the right material selections, interactive lighting, mapped projection, accompanying audio, and a variety of seating options we will create a captivating space that invites contemplation, connection, ceremony, and community. 

 

Honoring the sacred directions, the paths leading into the fire are from the east, south, west, and north. The mantle of the fire pit itself incorporates four altars and offering bowls where the paths meet the fire pit at the center of the installation. These are places to lay down sage, tobacco, written messages, or other offerings to burn in the sacred fire. Our team will steward these offerings throughout the week and burn them in a safe space after the conference is over. 

 

We are honored to contribute this immersive and essential environment to the already incredible Deep Space and we are excited to see the continued co-evolution of this cultural offering, Psychedelic Science conference, and global community this spring.

 

Thank you for your consideration!