Bridging the Ancient and Modern: A Revolutionary Approach to Spiritual Traditions
I have always believed that the true essence of ancient spiritual teachings transcends time, form, and space. My path has been deeply shaped by this belief, particularly through the Dzogchen teachings, which emphasize that what matters most is not the rigid adherence to form, but the essence—the living, breathing wisdom that adapts and evolves to meet the needs of the time.
I had the rare privilege of studying with Rishi Choni Dorje, my teacher, who was recognized by his own Rinpoche as an emanation of the Buddha, tasked with spreading the teachings of Dzogchen and Vajrayana Buddhism to the West. Rishi was not only a transmitter of ancient wisdom but also a pioneer, transitioning these profound teachings into forms more digestible and relatable for the modern world. As his student and daughter of this tradition, once called Primordial Freedom, I carry forward this lineage with my own unique voice, blending tradition with innovation to make it accessible for today’s seekers.
When I met Rishi, he was still firmly rooted in Vajrayana Buddhism but had begun his transition into something that bridged the ancient and modern—a dynamic, evolving form of spirituality that honored tradition while addressing the challenges of the Western mind. Through him, I was formally initiated into the paths of Dzogchen, Chöd, and Vajrayana Buddhism, along with guidance from revered teachers like Namkhai Norbu and Lama Tsultrim Allione. These teachings are a solid foundation of my being, and their essence permeates everything I do—whether it’s in my art, my offerings, or the tools I share online.
A Living Tradition
As I work to bring these teachings into the modern world, I’ve faced questions and challenges, particularly around cultural appropriation. To me, this journey has never been about borrowing or extracting. These teachings are not a passing interest or aesthetic—they are a cornerstone of my growth and becoming, deeply integrated into my life and practice. My use of traditional items, symbols, and rituals in my art and offerings is not a detached appropriation but a heartfelt homage. It is my way of preserving the traditions that shaped me, honoring them by making them visible to a broader audience that might otherwise never encounter them.
The truth is, I could never turn my back on these teachings—they are woven into the fabric of who I am. By sharing them in ways that resonate with a modern audience, I strive to ensure that their essence remains alive, rather than allowing them to become sterile or frozen in time. My commitment to this path is not only spiritual but also tangible. We actively send contributions to Tibetan monasteries in Tibet, supporting the traditions and communities from which these teachings originated.
Revolutionizing the Sacred
My approach to spirituality is, by nature, revolutionary. I believe that the modern world requires a modern approach—one that is bold, innovative, and unafraid to challenge rigidity, but always rooted in deep respect for the wisdom of the past. This is not about diluting or discarding tradition; it’s about breathing life into it, allowing it to evolve and remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
I carry this revolutionary spirit into every aspect of my work. The items I use in my practice and art—ritual daggers, drums, human femurs—are not just tools but symbols of the profound inner work I’ve done, of the lineage I am part of, and of the sacredness of transformation itself. They are reminders of the essence of Dzogchen: the recognition of primordial freedom, the unshakable truth that remains even amidst chaos and change.
Honoring the Lineage
Through my work, I aim to balance the tension between tradition and modernity, holding the lineage with reverence while meeting the needs of the world we live in now. I do not claim to teach Dharma teachings in a formal sense, but the depth of my realizations informs everything I share. Whether it’s through my art, my courses, or my presence online, I aim to convey the timeless truths that these teachings have revealed to me.
In a world hungry for meaning, my role is to serve as a bridge—a humble carrier of wisdom who integrates the old and the new. My path is not just about preserving traditions but about allowing them to thrive, evolve, and touch the hearts of those who are ready to receive them.