🌿 SPIRITWOOD PORTAL — “WHERE SPIRIT GROWS”
Rainbow Spirit 2026
Spirit Hugs Art Installation Application
It all begins with an idea…
‘Spiritwood Portal’ is an immersive, walk-through art installation, designed for Rainbow Spirit Festival 2026
The installation consists of:
🌳 The Portal Archway
A three-layered arch constructed from hand-cut wooden ply, arranged front-to-back to create depth and the feeling of entering another world. The arches are painted with swirling branch formations, glowing accents, and enchanted forest imagery. Moss, leaves, mushrooms, butterflies, and sculpted clay roots build a tactile, 3D surface that makes the portal feel alive.
Below is a 3D mini module that was made to demonstrate the design and layout.
✨Concept Overview✨
🍃 Side Panels
Two smaller side pieces frame the entrance, each representing a different aspect of the journey and the duality of life, day and night!
Right Panel
A sunlit forest scene with warm colours, a forest goddess, and uplifting magical creatures.
Symbolises renewal, transformation, discovery, and stepping into new beginnings.
Left Panel
At the entrance, a wooden-style signpost reads:
“Old Paths Taken” (pointing away)
“New Beginnings” (pointing into the portal)
This sign ties the narrative together and roots the visitor in the symbolism of the installation.
Three freestanding ply arches positioned in sequence
Two side panels for framing and storytelling
Hinged timber supports for easy transport
Optional grounding points and sandbags
Designed to be stable, safe and accessible
All pieces break down flat for transport
🛠 Structural Design
🌿 Artist Reflection
Spiritwood Portal was created during a time of personal transition, healing, and growth. The process became a way to honour old wounds, recognise patterns that no longer serve me, and step forward into a more aligned version of myself. This installation mirrors that journey — offering others a space to pause, reflect, and choose their next beginning. I think it ties in beautifully with the re-imagined 'Rainbow Spirit Festival.
Spiritwood Portal is more than an archway — it is a symbolic threshold where nature, magic, and transformation meet.
A place to breathe, to release, and to step forward with intention.