University of Redlands Labyrinth

November 2, 2004 - Election Day

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One of the first steps, after finding the center and entrance, is to layout the axes of the Labyrinth. This determines the symmetry for the pattern. We also mark all the paths' radii on one of the axes. We'll use these marks to set our saw when we begin to cut the circles.

Some people ask, "Why do you go to such rediculous lengths to make this pattern? Isn't it easier to just print a template on a big printer, attach it to the concrete and then paint or sandblast the pattern?"

It is a lot easier. The final product looks like it was a lot easier. It's a lot cheaper for the labyrinth builder to make a labyrinth that way. The profit margin is much higher for a contractor to build a labyrinth that way. Don't get me wrong. We're interested in profit too. But more importantly, we're interested in creating a very high quality, hand drawn, cut, and colored pattern. By cutting the grooves on either side of the lines, we create an illusion of relief in the pattern. The cut grooves make the colored lines stand out. There are tiny shadows in the grooves that matter in the overall impression that the pattern creates. By hand coloring the lines, we are able to touch every part of the pattern, imparting a "human-ness" and depth of quality that cannot be created any other way.

I like to think that these grooves will make the pattern more permanent, too. I imagine that in a few hundred years that sandblasted and stained patterns will be all worn away by the feet of pilgrims. The patterns made using Robert Ferre's techniques will be set down into the concrete. It will take a lot more wear and tear to use up the pattern.

Imagine if the builders at Chartres had only stained the pattern onto the stones. Do you think that the original pattern would have lasted 800+ years? Probably not. The pattern would have been worn away in a matter of a century or less.

I hope that your distant progenitors (gad, I hope that's the right word!) are able to enjoy walking this pattern. May they lead happier lives from the insights that they harvest here.

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