The New Hot Shop in Alberta Arts

I stopped by Fantasma: an altar space, to welcome them to the neighborhood and check out the goods.  Jessica Rega, the founder of Fantasma, grew up in the Mission District of San Fransisco.  Among the many unique experiences of living in the Mission was her exposure to Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and its lasting impact on her.  Very simply put, Day of the Dead is a celebration, reconnection, and honoring of family spirits.  Living in the Mission gave her access to many of the tools traditionally used during ceremonies, rituals and spiritual practices to honor the dead, pray for good fortune and give thanks.

Rega has lived and worked in Alberta Arts for many years now.  Yet, she found herself having to make long car trips back to the Mission to load up on altar items.  On July 1, 2009, all that changed when Fantasma: an altar space was opened at 2314 B NE Alberta Street as a result of a need she saw in the community.  Here you will find candles, herbs, oils, incense, Mexican Folk Art, books, bones, handmade crafts and many other items used to adorn altar or other sacred spaces.  Fantasma’s myriad and changing offerings include tarot card readings, workshops, art displays and movie nights, just to name a few.

I found Rega to be very knowledgeable and non-judgemental in helping me choose some items for my altar.  With my green candle (flow of money) and incense in hand, I bid her farewell and headed for home.  There, awaiting me in my mail, was a refund check from the City of Portland for a long-forgotten parking ticket from months and months before.  (These results are not guaranteed).

Belief is a powerful thing.  Formulating requests and putting them out to the universe in a respectful way, making your intentions clear, and honoring those who came before is a good way to conduct yourself.  Fantasma provides the framework in which to gain knowledge in this realm and provides the altar items needed to help make beliefs manifest.  If you are serious about your altar, this is the place for you.  If you want to learn more, come by the shop or check it out online at www.fantasmastore.com to see a comprehensive list of events and offerings.  If you are feeling whimsical and just want to browse, this too is welcome.