ARTIST’S STATEMENT for The Open Gate, at the entrance to Sedona, Arizon
by Reagan Word
Why the gate?
The Tlaquepaque Bridge has historically been the gateway into Sedona. The gate motif is a welcoming transition between our spectacular eight-mile scenic highway and central Sedona.
Why the heron?
For years, 30 of them now, my family and I have enjoyed seeing a Great Blue Heron peacefully wading in the creek north of the old bridge or flying above the trees. Missing glimpses of him and the creek made me want to feature a creek side atmosphere in the roundabout. I tried almost every animal indigenous to this area to be a part of the gate design. But, the Great Blue Heron just had to be the attendant at the gate.
The symbols for the gate?
My research revealed that the apple tree, a symbol of antiquity, and its apples, the fruit of creativity were natural choices. The red rocks, symbolizing beauty were a given. The bear, courage, (the open space below the apple tree branches) showed up unexpectedly as I worked to refine the red rocks. The more I tried to edit him out, the more he seemed to belong. The gate attendant, the heron, was discovered to symbolize the quest for our unique purpose in life.
Together, what are these symbols saying?
The timeless beauty of Sedona has inspired in many the courage to pursue their life’s calling, the fruit of which has been a blessing to our community and the world.
Searching for our personal expression in life, regardless of our ethnic or cultural background is the hallmark of Sedona. Both residents and visitors all share the common denominator of its spirit and the inspiring beauty of its natural wonders. Sedona is diverse in its paths and broad in its views. May all who journey here find an open gate to it’s inspiration.

In many Native American cultures eagle dancers  dance for rain and blessings. In uptown Sedona we have two eagle dancer sculptures by Reagan Word. Eagle Dancer~North is listening to spirit, depicted as a descending  flight of birds.  She directs these inspirations to Eagle Dancer~South, who sends prayers aloft. Spirit answers showering blessings below. The gabions and panels symbolize the earth and water  that receive  this nourishment for  our beautiful community. Let us remember that we are each a part of the balance of nature, giving and receiving as stewards of the earth.

“On new year’s day, 2017, my wife and I hiked into a remote redrock canyon where we were thrilled to witness a murmuration, a flight of thousands of starlings dancing in a synchronized aerial ballet. That unforgettable experience inspired The Eagle Dancer Sculptures, which are a unique blend of eagle dancing and murmuration!~ Reagan Word 

THE LOST SHEEP northwest Community Church, Phoenix, Arizona