Reminiscent of an ancient temple, as well as a bunker (albeit open to the sky), one enters the structure through an opening that faces the rising sun (perfect east). Visitors then pass through a narrow hallway that leads to an intimate circular chamber. The hay bale walls muffle sounds, creating a silent, insulated environment that encourages deep introspection and a disconnection from the distractions of the present world. The intimate scale of the hallway and chamber alters our sense of time and location, resituating viewers to something more experientially internal, perhaps even ritualistic. The space, a container for energy, feels like a sanctuary, or perhaps a portal to ineffable truths.

 

The design of "Passage from Earth to Sky" emphasizes a direct connection to the elemental forces of nature. Upon entering, one can see only the sky above and the hay-covered ground below, with the surrounding trees deliberately blocked from view. This framing simplifies the visual experience, directing attention to the elements of earth and sky (and the space in between).