Many people may know visionary artist Alex Grey from his contributions to Tool’s use of his artwork from such albums as Lateralus and 10,000 Days (both Volcano Entertainment). Alex and his wife Allyson have much of their life’s work on display at the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors, now located in Wappingers Falls, NY. However, there is so much more to the environment and artwork at CoSM that must be experienced and felt that makes a trip to Dutchess County, New York definitely worthwhile.
On August 1st, 2015, Alex and Allyson held their “164th Full Moon Ceremony” at the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors. With their intricate artwork lining the walls of the house, the beautiful ceremony commenced at 7:30p.m. as the Greys appeared from behind a doorway adorned with a tapestry of Psychic Energy System. They began the ceremony by playing a rhythm on gongs set on opposite sides of the stage.
Alex Grey at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Allyson Grey at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Allyson spoke briefly at the beginning of the ceremony, bringing to stage two poets in order, Brett Bevell and Fun Yung Moon. Following their appearance was Joness Jones, who gave her Astrological weather forecast in disguise, discussing Leo and Aquarius as well as Venus being in retrograde. To conclude the ceremony, that had been primarily a reminder of love, Alex read a passage from his book, Art Psalms. The Ceremony left a clear impression on those who attended and set the stage for the evening’s festivities to follow.
Full Moon Ceremony, at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
As the night continued, inside, there was live painting by artists Caren Charles and Alexia Velez; a Sand Mandala was created by guests in another room, as well as Tarot Readings by Marcy. All the while Alex and Allyson sat in the main room speaking with guests and signing books and posters. Outside there was a gorgeous laser light show, and music ensued. In addition, there was everything from Reiki therapy on the patio, a fire spinner, acrobatics, and a bonfire to entertain the onlookers.
Alex and Allyson Grey at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Full Moon Ceremony, at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Full Moon Ceremony, at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Full Moon Ceremony, at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
Later in the evening, Alex painted a Supportrait of one of the attendees. The proceeds of the Supportrait go to helping build Entheon. Entheon is their latest project on the property, a building to house the Greys CoSM Art Collection.
Full Moon Ceremony, at CoSM, by Melina D Photography
More information about the Greys, The Chapel of Sacred Mirrors, and the Entheon project can be found at their website here:
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WORDS AND PHOTOS BY MELINA DELLAMARRGIO