Chakana was a piece inspired by the Andean (Incan) cross and its role in ancient cosmology. South American civilizations like the Maya and Aztec have always been a source of inspiration for me—going all the way back to my childhood. When I was a kid, I created a comic book series, and some of the storylines took place inside ancient Mayan temples or Aztec ruins. So honestly, it was only a matter of time before I began exploring the deeper cosmology of this region of the world through my art.
For those unfamiliar, the Chakana is a sacred symbol in Andean culture—a stepped cross representing a cosmological map. It embodies the three realms of existence: the upper world (Hanan Pacha), the middle world (Kay Pacha), and the lower world (Ukhu Pacha). It also reflects the four cardinal directions, the cyclical nature of time, and the sacred center point that connects all levels of existence. It’s not just a symbol—it’s a spiritual framework for how life, nature, and the cosmos interconnect.
I wanted to take this ancient symbol and create it so it appears as a multidimensional map. Chakana reminds us that existence isn't linear—it’s layered, interconnected, and alive. Every step, every direction, every axis in the cross speaks to transformation, balance, and movement between realms. It invites us to remember that we’re part of something much larger—a cosmic order that flows through both the physical and the spiritual, the seen and the unseen.
Visually, the overall form of this piece is also meant to echo the cross-sectional geometry of the sacred vine Banisteriopsis caapi—a powerful plant spirit used ceremonially in Amazonian traditions. Its natural form mirrors the same cosmic structure embodied by the Chakana, reinforcing the idea that sacred patterns repeat across culture, plant life, and spirit.
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About Samuel Farrand
Samuel Farrand began creating psychedelic art in 1998 following his first visionary experience, but it wasn’t until 2007 that his visual focus began to crystallize into the body of work he is known for today. Inspired by the psychedelic styles of Alex Grey, Robert Venosa, Victor Moscoso, Luke Brown, and Xavi Panneton, his artistic path was deeply influenced by their ability to unlock new visual languages rooted in consciousness.
His work blends neon color palettes, intricate mandalas, and layered patterns to tell symbolic, often personal stories. Each piece carries intention—sometimes spiritual, sometimes emotional, always deliberate.
Over the years, Farrand’s art has been featured in exhibitions with collectives like Threyda and alongside artists such as Android Jones, Jake Amason, Glass Crane, and Justin Totemical. His visuals have appeared in immersive environments at Burning Man and psytrance festivals around the world, as well as in collaboration with renowned projection artist Jonathan Singer, known for his visuals on the Grateful Dead’s Fare Thee Well tour. His artwork has also accompanied live sets by Trip-Hop pioneer Dave Tipper.
Beyond the festival scene, Farrand’s creations have found homes in larger installations at Meow Wolf locations in Las Vegas and Santa Fe. A standout moment in his career came when one of his works was featured on the cover of Ayahuasca: A Test Pilot’s Handbook by Chris Kilham, a moment made even more significant when it appeared live on CNN.
Those interested in exploring the process and philosophy behind his work are invited to learn more on his dedicated artist page.