Beach labyrinth artist taking project across Devon and Cornwall
Andrew Nicholson's creations include different elements, like positive mental health and environmental concerns
A beach labyrinth artist from Cornwall is looking to bring the project to Devon.
Andrew Nicholson has already created a number of beach labyrinths in the Duchy.
He says his work invites people to 'reflect on their individual journey and issues they may be facing'.
"During this past year I have broadened this out slightly at different labyrinths to include elements like positive mental health and well-being; environmental concerns, the significance of special places and relating Easter to the experiences of lockdown.
"There is always an invitation to let go of any burdens, to reflect, pray, pause and to be thankful, move forward, be transformed in some way."
Andrew Nicholson - Labyrinth Artist
Circular labyrinths have been used by Christians for hundreds of years as a way of praying and reflecting.
People are encouraged to walk the circular path from the outside in, as a symbolic physical and spiritual journey to be closer to God. Unlike a maze there are no dead ends.
Andrew said that he had created labyrinths during different seasons and for special events – working with charities and arts organisations as well as churches:
"Through the pandemic, when the lockdown restrictions have allowed, I have still been able to create a few beach labyrinths, plus a daffodil labyrinth I created in Tresillian Churchyard over the winter which bloomed this spring.
"I created one labyrinth last autumn at Porthcurnick as a fundraiser for Mind on World Mental Health Day, while in recent weeks I created one at Par for Kneehigh Theatre’s Random Acts of Art and in Newquay for a Youth Art Connects event which featured activities sharing the therapeutic benefits of art with young people and families."
While labyrinths, like the one at Chartres Cathedral, have stood for centuries, Andrew’s creations are more transitory - lasting until the tide comes in.