The indigenous ancestors recognized that this Valley, at the convergence of four distinct geographic locations was special, and were drawn here by the life-giving springs. They were intimately connected to Mother Earth, able to feel the energy within the land, a sense many of us city dwellers have lost. But here in Echo Valley that connection is still strong and felt by all who visit – an overall sense of wellness, peace and bliss – awakening wonder.
Restorative Energy of
Echo Valley
Center of the Energy
Room 12
At the centre of the energy felt in Echo Valley lies Room 12 of our Lookout Lodge. Here the spirit is made visible through art created by our resident artist Michael Blackstock.
Michael is a renowned artist who developed the peer-reviewed theory of Blue Ecology, an indigenous water-first approach to the environment. Michael has crafted the intangible feeling into something tangible, by creating several carved masks depicting the faces of Indigenous ancestors whose energy he felt in Room 12.
One of Michael’s latest works of art is his interpretation of this special place.
The centre circle represents Room 12 in our Lookout Lodge, the centre of the energy felt at Echo Valley Ranch.
The second circle represents the artwork of two other indigenous artists, consisting of wood carved murals on the North and West facing walls of the Lookout Lodge, the Shaman and the Circle of Life. They cradle Room 12 as if to protect it.
The third circle depicts the four geographic regions that converge upon Echo Valley Ranch. The borders of the three circles symbolize the active aquifer that flows beneath our land. Indigenous people believe that water is alive and is spiritual. Amazingly enough, there are five springs on the ranch alone!
”Water is a living entity. It is the sacred centre from which all other activities radiate.
Michael Blackstock
Michael Blackstock
Resident Artist
About the Artist
Michael began exploring his First Nations heritage through visual art in 1986. He is a Northwest coast Gitxsan artist and has studied under the Gitxsan Master Carver, Walter Harris, who won the Governor General’s award for his artistic contribution to Canada. Michael expresses his vision through paintings, carvings and photography.
Pacific Editions of Victoria has printed Michael’s work over the past 20 years, and he has sold his prints in galleries all throughout BC.
Curriculum Vitae: Michael D. Blackstock RPF, C.Med., MA
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