Willow Labyrinth 2004

Willow labyrinth (7 paths, temporary), land art exhibition "silent visitors" on the Lake Ibm in Upper Austria
Material: 1210 willow branches (1.6 m high)
Diameter: 18 m

Concept: the willow, a tree which is well-suited to damp meadows, demonstrates very well growth and change within a short timespan. Nature (the meadow, wind and the weather) also helps to create the labyrinth. In April the willow branches were dug into position in the earth; during Summer they took root and grew leaves. At the end of the environmental installation in August they had to be removed.
The tracks formed by the many visitors created very visible Ariadne threads. The centre, where there was a stone seat, was used by many as a picnic spot and by others as a meditation space. Although the space was not enclosed, there was a feeling of security because of the movement of the tall, delicate willow branches while wandering amongst them.

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