Sunday, April 6, 2014

Ceremonial Gourd Rattles as Spiritual Tools

Ceremonial Gourd Rattles as Spiritual Tools
Every religion and spirituality has a set of Spiritual Tools that facilitate a deeper connection with ones faith and beliefs. Some are specific and unique to the philosophy, and others are common among many. Altars, Flowers, Incense, Music, Songs, Chants, Drums, Candles, Statuary, Rattles.....all are tools that can be kept in the Spiritual Toolbox.
One that is  very important to us, and that we create many of, is the Ceremonial Gourd Rattle. These Ceremony Rattles have many uses and their diversity can lend to many cultures and faiths. The Rattle can be used in Prayer as a calling, an asking, and in gratefulness. It can be used in spiritual and energetic Cleansing, to remove negativity. They are often used to space clear homes in the making of Sacred Space, especially after an argument or illness in the house. The Ceremony Rattle is common to have at Gatherings of the Spirit, to assist in a Collective Consciousness, and even Drum Circles to celebrate and rejoice in our humanity on this Earth in song and dance. Those who explore Shamanic Journeying can use the Rattle as they enter and depart the other world or state of consciousness. And simply, they can assist us in Meditation, as a focus, as the slow rhythmic shake reminds one of the heartbeat. 

Painted Gourd Ceremonial Rattles from Conscious Art Studios
Creation Process of a Ceremonial Gourd Rattle
Our creation process is done on an intuitive level, and when we create we only do so when we ourselves feel balanced and peaceful. We use Gourds when we craft the rattles, and enjoy working with this Earth element and feel that it lends to the character of the piece. It brings a naturalness and integrity to the purpose of its creation. 
The Gourd are carefully chosen, cut, and cleaned. Focused attention is paid to the addition to the noisemakers that are placed inside the gourd. Sometimes the intention is to create a rich, full, and deep sound. Other times it is to create a light and delicate sound. We use a variety in the combination, including  dried beans and seeds, gemstone chips, and metal beads. Once the perfect assortment is found, the gourd is sealed and we attach a wooden handle. Handles are wrapped with leathers and suede and then adorned with extra embellishments such as cord wrapping, feathers, wooden pony beads, tin cones, or additional gemstones. We add leather loops at the very end of the handle to serve as a wrist wrap for when you are shaking them (optional to use), or to attached the rattle to your belt loop or waistband of regalia while at large gatherings or ceremonies. 
We paint our Ceremonial Rattles with leather acrylics, usually with animal totems or other spiritual symbols.  Many times this gives people a more  personal attachment to the piece and allows them to resonate with it more fully. We offer custom paintings on our Rattles.






Blessing Trees Ceremonial Gourd Rattle
 SOLD



Black Bear Totem Ceremonial Gourd Rattle Staff
SOLD


Peacock Goddess Ceremonial Gourd Rattle
SOLD


Sea Turtle Totem Ceremonial Gourd Rattle
SOLD


Moon Goddess Ceremonial Gourd Rattle


Dragonfly Totem Women's Winter Ceremonial Gourd Rattle
SOLD



5 comments:

rose AKA Walk in the Woods - she/her said...

These gourd rattles are so beautiful.
But, I really LoVe all of your work and have honor for the sacred way in which you create.

Garden Gate Designs said...

Your blog is so interesting. I had no idea that ceremonial rattles held so much symbolism. Very interesting content.

Rosemary, Garden Gate Designs
www.gardengatedesigns.blogspot.com

Jeanne Fry Art said...

Thank you so much Rose, and I honor the way in which you create as well. I respect the way in which you live what you love. Kindred Spirits.

Jeanne Fry Art said...

Thank you Rosemary. I love being able to share through our blog what I would normally share with people in person. I love how the internet has allowed so many of us to meet people that we might never have had the opportunity to. Thank you for sharing your blog, I will visit it this afternoon.

Anonymous said...

Amazing, Interesting and Educational. So far I love your site. Plan on visiting often.

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