Dear All,
I do not usually talk about a project in process as I find talking about it steals away my energy to express it in wood. However, in reworking this project, I was struck by the brilliance of the artisans of 800 years ago.
I cut the Chartres Labyrinth three years ago. I took the 800 year old design and then modified it to make it ‘scroll saw friendly’. When I designed the pattern, I left the ends squared off because it is easier to have squared ends my graphics tool.
I have a new idea on how to execute the cut and I reconsidered the design. I took half a day and reworked the design closer to the original and printed my 2018 design next to the 2021 design and was stunned by the difference.
For me, the 2021 design transcends the mechanics of the labyrinth and adds a layer of stillness to the image. I can now sense the cool of the great cathedral, the calm serenity of the space. The gentle edges of the labyrinth move me to the quiet of a woodland glade with colonnade of trees creating an arched canopy far above my head. I am moved to stillness. I embrace the quiet. I come to peace. And in that gentle place, I walk the labyrinth.
I am humbled by the brilliance of my artistic forebears and grateful for their gifts.
Stay save, Stay well:
Love to All,
Paul
