Beyond the Light: the Bell Rock Series

The Series with an Example: The Bell Rock Energy Bolt

2A - Bell Rock Energy Bolt
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This image is titled "Energy Bolt" because of the obvious emanation from the peak of Bell Rock. The remnants of the previous day's storm and high winds were dissipating, leaving the sky a delightful mix of natural colors: blue, silver, blackand shades of gray. The bolt appears to gather itself just above Bell Rock and then ascend boldly to the center of the sky. This is the first image on this roll of film; it has the feel of raw energy being emitted from Bell Rock - or, perhaps, being drawn to it?

The light energy seen in the photographs is consistent with the beliefs of Native Americans and others who consider the Bell Rock area one of the most sacred and spiritual focal points on earth. In Native American folklore, there is a concentration of 4 such focal points - vortices - in the Sedona area;

I have shot landscape and scenic photography for 25 years and have never produced a series of images similar to these. I personally believe they are a gift of Spirit and that their purpose and intent are to help others see their own Truth through the Light of God's Love. At the least, they make one ponder the mysteries of the Universe and those found within each of us.

Some Other Images in the Bell Rock series

7A - Light Beings
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The light values in the sky above Bell Rock (visible in the distance about a quarter in from the left edge), have inspired many comments by viewers. Look closely at the image on the left to see an uncanny human profile. By contrast, the hooded image to its right remains mysterious in appearance. An appropriate title; wouldn't you agree?

8A - Light Energy (2 "loops")
The two loops of light rise above Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte in direct relationship to the natural light striking both formations. Fast moving cloud formations were intermittently casting both formations in light and dark - moment by moment. I waited for the instant then the top of Bell Rock was illuminated to take this photograph. A moment later it was in shadow.

15A - Stairway to Heaven
I have titled this image "Stairway to Heaven" because there appears to be a ladder of red light rays inside the aura on the far right. The aura rises and narrows, increasing in brightness before ending in a point just past the top of the frame. This is the only aural feature in the whole series that extends past the film frame. This provided an opportunity to check if the images of the series were simply processing artifacts: the development process would also show the aura in the film sprocket area. The first discovery that there was no artifact past the frame edge was an electrifying, celestial experience for both the professional film lab technician and myself. There are other "light ladders" in other series images, but this one is the most prominent - and clearly visible when enlarged.

16A - Light Energy (3 "loops")
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The three light loops above and on either side of Bell Rock have a mystical and ghostly quality to them - but there is more to these images than immediately meets the eye.The loop in the middle has a translucent face inside at the point where the clouds meet the blue sky. Can you see it? It is perfectly centered and positioned in the photograph. The loop on the far right is also intriguing, with its ghostly 'light being' appearance and inner violet hues. This photograph is among the most popular in the series because it allows the viewer to interact personally with its' elements. Look carefully at the image; many have detected other presences in the photograph!

17A - Bell Rock Gateway
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The light energy descending upon Bell Rock in this image has several interesting features. The "energy bolt" on the left appears to descend in front of the rock, while the one on the right gives the impression of bouncing off the formation befor continuing downward. In between there are four "light ladders" which look like flames rising up the rock face.

18A - Bell Rock Angel
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This image is titled "Bell Rock Angel" because of the obvious wing-like aura on either side of Bell Rock. Compare this photo with the others taken at the same location - only seconds apart.

19A - Red Canyon Light Dance
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"Red Canyon Light Dance" shows light patterns in the cloudy sky eliciting viewer responses ranging from birds in flight to angelic beings. The patterns end at the rock formations below and do not extend beyond them onto the foreground. Once again, these light values were not visible at the time the photograph was taken.

20A - Bell Rock Aura
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An aura of violet light surrounds the top of Bell Rock in this image. It was one of four frames shot at the same location, moments apart. Each contains completely separate light values; compare this image with the other 3 of Bell Rock.

22A - Madonna and the Guardians
This photo of the "Madonna" rock formation has an "energy bolt" coming in from the center of the bright cloud to the upper right of the image.The bolt appears to angle toward the rock formation to its lower left.

23A - Angels Over Madonna
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"Angels over Madonna" is an appropriate title for this image for several reasons. The rock formation consists of a single rock spire behind two larger outcroppings. The spire is popularly named "Madonna and Child", and is the inspiration for the world-famous Chapel of the Holy Cross located in close proximity to the formation. The larger stones are referred to by several names, including "The Two Nuns","The Praying Hands" and "The Guardians". A halo of light arcs over the formation with violet hues contained within. Look closely inside the arc and you might see a serene face in the clouds. I do; do you?

Click on the Victorola to hear an audio message from Paul.
( Please be patient if you have a slower modem )

In August, 1996, I met Paul in Sedona. As I talked with the people from the photo lab and a few of the people from around the area, my belief is that the photos of The Bell Rock Series have not been photo retouched or enhanced. While there may be a technical explanation for each of the seperate phenomenon displayed on these photos, the likelihood of having that many things happen to one roll of film is like "winning the lottery ten times in a roll ".
I decided not to worry about it and just enjoy the photos as they are presented...

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