The Visionary State: A Journey Through California's Spiritual Landscape

The Visionary State: A Journey Through California's Spiritual Landscape by Davis, Erik. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780811848350.

With a rich cultural history and Hollywood stars publicly attesting to a wide range of faiths, its no surprise that Californias spiritual landscape is as diverse as its natural surroundings. The Visionary State weaves text and image into a compelling narrative of religion, architecture, and consciousness in California, from neopaganism to televangelism, UFO cults to austere Zen Buddhism. Acclaimed culture critic Erik Davis brings together the immigrant and homegrown religious influences that have been part of the regions character from its earliest days, drawing connections between seemingly unlike traditions and celebrating the diversity of Californias spiritual composition. Michael Rauners evocative photographs depict the sites and structures where these traditions have taken root and flourished. The Visionary State is a landmark look at what is likely the most varied locale for religious activity anywhere.