Alchemical Distillation: Receiving the Powers of the Above and the Below

"Alchemical Distillation: Receiving the Powers from the Above and the Below" offers a practical, magical, and philosophical introduction to botanical distillation—an ancient practice used to produce alcohol, floral waters, and essential oils. Together, we will assemble and operate a traditional copper alembic still, developed within Islamic alchemical traditions, and observe how plant material is transformed into fragrant extracts. As we work, we will learn the anatomy of the alembic—its vessel, head, and channels—as both a functional apparatus and a mirror of our own inner structure.
In alchemical thought, distillation is not only a physical process but also a method for cultivating inner clarity. In laboratory distillation, a substance is repeatedly heated and condensed—rising, cooling, and returning—becoming gradually more concentrated and clear. This cyclical movement reflects a principle described in the Emerald Tablet: that the universe itself is clarifying its own consciousness through distillation, and that, at a certain level of awareness, we will begin to perceive our own thoughts and emotions as part of this larger circulation.
Seen in this way, distillation becomes a form of laboratory meditation on unity, transformation, and perception. As we observe the plant’s subtle qualities emerging through scent and water, we’ll consider the relationship between material processes and inner experience. By the end of the class, you will understand the fundamentals of distilling plants and water to create essential oils, as well as gain tools for relating outer laboratory work to inner practice.

This class is facilitated by Syd Buffman and Eliza Swann.

Eliza Swann, also known as Emerald, is an interdisciplinary artist, writer, and alchemist whose work explores mysticism and its relationship to contemporary art practice. In 2014, they founded Golden Dome, a nonprofit art school for mystics dedicated to experimental creative education. Eliza received a BA in Painting from the San Francisco Art Institute and an MFA from Central Saint Martins in London. Swann is the author of The Anatomy of the Aura (St. Martin's, 2020), Green Mary (Cosmic Dog House Press, 2024), and The Alchemical Imagination (Weiser/Red Wheel). Their writing has appeared in BOMB, Momus, Contemporary Art Review LA, Perfect Wave, and numerous anthologies. They serve on the faculty of Pratt Institute, where they teach alchemy.

Syd Buffman is a perfumer and multidisciplinary artist in Los Angeles, California. Her work is inspired by the poetry of nature, transformation, interconnectedness, and the emotionality scent can evoke. She creates immersive and ethereal fragrances informed by her background in design, incense making, herbalism, and alchemy.

Ticket price: $25 (in-person event only).

Please email [email protected] or phone 323-663-2167 with any questions.

CONTENT DISCLAIMER

The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed within exhibited works are solely those of their creators and may not represent those of the Philosophical Research Society (PRS), its affiliates, or any individuals associated with PRS. Screenings are intended for educational and entertainment purposes.

ACCESSIBILITY

PRS wants all guests to be able to enjoy our events safely and comfortably. If you require any accessibility accommodation, please reach out to [email protected] before showtime and we will be happy to assist you.

REFUND POLICIES

All sales are final. There are no refunds for PRS events , except in the event of a medical emergency, including but not limited to a positive COVID-19 test. Ticket exchanges may be granted on a case by case basis, pending circumstances.

In the event that PRS is forced to cancel an event entirely, tickets will be refunded or vouchers offered for a rescheduled event.

PARKING

We encourage attendees to consider carpooling, walking or biking to events if possible, and please be considerate of our Los Feliz neighbors when parking. Nearby street parking is available, as well as limited parking onsite at PRS in the front lot (entry from Los Feliz Blvd. when heading east).

PRS EVENT POLICIES

• We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.
• Events are subject to change without notice, including guest speakers and/or performers.
• We encourage you to arrive at least 30 min. before the scheduled event start time to find parking, enjoy the Bookstore and take your seats.
• Please turn off all mobile devices before the show. Talking and texting are not allowed during the events.
• No filming, audio recording or mobile phone recording of events, screenings, concerts or other programs by audience members is allowed without permission.
• There is no smoking permitted on PRS grounds.
• We strongly encourage guests to wear masks to PRS events to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
• PRS allows Service Animals into the facility under ADA and state guidelines. For further details please visit www.ADA.gov. No animals permitted whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support, under ADA guidelines and CA Health Code.
• Please do not bring outside food or drink into PRS events.
• Weapons are strictly prohibited at PRS events.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher The Philosophical Research Society