Patchwork Tee Pees

by Rachael Marshall

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I created Patchwork teepees to bring special energy to
the space, experience special moments with the peo-
ple around me, and to create space to open people up
and be free to express themselves through the beauty
of art. The traditional teepee was not only an efficient
structure, but also a symbolic expression of humanitys
relations with the natural and spiritual worlds. Espe-
cially in the case of ceremonial teepees, the process of
obtaining hides and poles was and is shaped by prayer
and ritual guidelines. Symbols and story drawings were
often painted on both the interior and exterior of the
teepee, and these drawings were often the expression
of visionary experiences. Like the Buddhist stupa or
the Hindu mandir, the space created by the teepee
is itself symbolic of the wider cosmos: time and the
seasons, space and the four directions are associated
with the circular floor space of the teepee. In its circle
are structured many of lifes activities, from the most
mundane to the most sacred. The circle of the teepee
is a profound symbol of the interdependence of all
of life. I have built the teepees for everyone to come
and create space in and share with everyone else to
collectively build energy that will grow and resonate
through the burn.