Steve Blamires

Born in 1955, Steve Blamires is a contemporary researcher and historian specializing in Neopaganism, Celtic spirituality, and folklore. His academic pursuits have led him to author several books within these domains. Blamires's early studies involved twelve years dedicated to the western mystery tradition under the guidance of Gareth Knight, after which his focus shifted to Celtic subjects. He co-founded "Wandering Angus," an educational center for Celtic resources in Washington State, and currently resides in Beacon, New York.

His expertise in Celtic traditions is widely recognized, having represented Celtic peoples at the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions. Blamires established the Celtic Research and Folklore Society in Scotland in 1986, serving as the editor for its journal, Seanchas. He has also collaborated with Tibetan Buddhist monks on initiatives for spiritual retreats and is affiliated with organizations like the Company of Hawkwood and the Company of Avalon. Furthermore, he has contributed to the commemoration of the Highland Clearances through fundraising efforts. Blamires is also a recognized authority on the life and writings of William Sharp, also known as Fiona MacLeod.

Steve Blamires is a prominent authority on Celtic traditions, having actively represented Celtic peoples at the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions. His commitment to these studies led him to found the Celtic Research and Folklore Society in Scotland in 1986, where he also served as editor for its journal, Seanchas. Blamires has engaged in interfaith spiritual work, collaborating with Tibetan Buddhist monks to establish Holy Isle in Scotland as a spiritual retreat accessible to individuals of all beliefs. He holds memberships in the Company of Hawkwood and is a co-founder of the Company of Avalon. His academic contributions extend to teaching about Celtic Culture at Peninsula College. Additionally, he has been instrumental in supporting the Highland Clearances Memorial Fund since 1996, facilitating events to honor the memory of this historical tragedy.

A significant area of Blamires's scholarly work involves the life and literary output of William Sharp, who also wrote under the pseudonym Fiona MacLeod. Blamires has established himself as an authority on this complex literary figure. His research culminated in the publication of a biography of William Sharp in 2008, titled "The Little Book of the Great Enchantment." This work delves into the multifaceted persona and contributions of Sharp/MacLeod to literature and mysticism, reflecting Blamires's deep engagement with his subject matter.

Beyond his academic and research pursuits, Steve Blamires possesses extensive global travel experience, having visited all seven continents and circumnavigated the globe. His travels have taken him to over fifty countries, fostering a deep understanding of diverse cultures and histories. He holds particular expertise concerning the Celtic, Viking, and Inuit peoples, with a comprehensive knowledge of the societal structures, cultural practices, and historical narratives of Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, and Greenland. Blamires's practical experience includes working as an expedition leader for Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society since 2002, and he is a licensed Zodiac driver through the Royal Yachting Association.