☀️ Get 13% Off! → Limited Summer Drop

Chakana - Visionary Art by Samuel Farrand

Chakana - Visionary Art by Samuel Farrand
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.

Explore the Details! →

Cymatech Collection Products

About Me

I started creating psychedelic art in 1998 after my first visionary experience, but it wasn’t until 2007 that I began dialing into a more focused vision—one that has shaped the body of work I create today. I was deeply inspired by the psychedelic styles of artists like Alex Grey, Robert Venosa, Victor Moscoso, Luke Brown, and Xavi Panneton. Their work unlocked something in me, and I’ve been exploring that visual language ever since.

My art blends neon color palettes, intricate mandalas, and layered patterns to tell symbolic, often personal stories. Each piece reflects something deeper—sometimes spiritual, sometimes emotional, but always intentional.

Over time, I’ve had the opportunity to share this work through exhibitions with collectives like Threyda, and alongside artists I’ve long admired—Android Jones, Jake Amason, Glass Crane, and Justin Totemical. My visuals have appeared in installations at Burning Man and psytrance festivals worldwide, and I’ve collaborated with projection artists like Jonathan Singer, known for his work on the Grateful Dead’s Fare Thee Well tour. Some of my pieces have also accompanied live sets by Trip-Hop legend Dave Tipper.

It’s been meaningful to see this work extend beyond festivals—especially through installations at Meow Wolf in Las Vegas and Santa Fe.

One moment that stands out was having my art featured on the cover of Ayahuasca: A Test Pilot’s Handbook by Chris Kilham, which was shown live on CNN. It felt like a rare alignment between art, message, and medicine.

If you're curious, feel free to explore more about my process and the journey behind the work on my page.

Leave a comment

Please note: comments must be approved before they are published.