Jeannette Bland

Jeannette believes that the inherent curiosity of life that each person holds dear can be satisfied and amplified with the help of mentors, experiences, and keen outlets of expression. From playing bassoon with the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra at age 9 and playing jazz under the tutelage of Sri Turiasangitananda, to coordinating Artists-in-Residence programs between the Washington State Department of Corrections and the Washington State Arts Commission, Jeannette finds harmony and beauty in the spaces between the obvious. She was a vital force in creating the nonprofits Gaia Knowledge Institute, which is dedicated to supporting underrepresented people in telling their own stories by connecting intersections of cultures and histories, and Alkhamiyah Consulting and Coaching, and Ile Ife Enterprises, Inc. Her academic background is in the arts and arts education–BAs in cultural anthropology and sociology (Western Washington University), graduate work in ethnomusicology, education, physics (University of Washington), and a doctorate in archetypal depth psychology and mythological studies (Pacifica Graduate Institute). Jeannette is an independent student of Talmudic thought, logic, and humor (Jerusalem, Tzfat, Austin, Los Angeles, Sado-ga Shima). Jeannette grew up surrounded in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest of the United States, achieving levels of initiations from Teachers to whom she bows with every breath when developing ceremony, teaching ritual methodologies, or listening to the still, small inner whispers of the heart. She publishes journals (Awakening! Journal of Encouragement/ Amazon.com), creates ketubot and other calligraphy pieces in multiple languages and designs ritual objects and tools. JR2D.bigcartel.com

Her personal philosophy is based on achieving the dynamic knowledge, understanding, and wisdom of a balanced life paired with attentive appreciation of everyday experiences with ease and kindness.