One People, Many Paths

Celebration Circle hosts an annual artist-based fundraiser called "One People, Many Paths: Sacred Art of Altars." Each year, local artists are invited to share their creativity by participating in the exhibition where 60+ duplicate boxes--each with identical dimensions--are created and distributed. The artists are encouraged to express their divine inspiration in transforming the altar boxes. Then, at the end of the closing reception, each altar receives a new home.

19th Annual

SACRED ART OF ALTARS:
ONE PEOPLE, MANY PATHS

60+ artist-crafted altars of identical shape/ size display the common threads of our humanity and creativity.

SEPTEMBER 1 - 16, 2023

SAN ANTONIO ART LEAGUE

AND MUSEUM

130 King William Street, 78204

The Start

One People, Many Paths was envisioned as an annual fundraiser and exhibition for Celebration Circle after the longest-serving member of our Council of Stewards, Edward “Butch” Sagebiel, had the idea to give a group of artists similar wooden box shapes to create and transform as a fundraiser for a gala. His concept was the impetus for this project which remains our signature fundraising event to this day.

The Goal

This exhibit is a reflection of the growing embrace of “nichos” or small, personalized shrines, in the popular culture of the Southwest. This artistry has long been an integral part of San Antonio’s spiritual heritage.

Altars are becoming increasingly evident in secular settings such as art galleries, museums, homes and businesses alike. Using the same altar blank showcases the creativity of the artists.