World-renowned Maze artist Adrian Fisher’s latest Labyrinth can be found at Canonteign Falls where seven paved rings have been laid into a butterfly meadow with a back drop of the Devon countryside. A stainless steel mirror disc Torus by the artist David Harber can be found in the centre reflecting the countryside back at you. The Labyrinth is the vision of the owners Chris and Kate Baylis and to mark their 60th birthdays.
The labyrinth will be a legacy symbolising the Baylis family history and their Catholic faith. “It’s a marker of where we’ve got to in this life and how we feel about things,” Kate says, “and a thread of Christian ethics that reaches back centuries.”
The family hope visitors enjoy its circles and pathways as well as the quotes depicted in bronze plaques along the route. The quotes each holds a special story to the Baylis family. From A A Milne “I wasn’t afraid,” said Pooh, said he,”I’m never afraid with you.” To William Shakespeare ‘Macbeth’ “Life… is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.”
A labyrinth has one single route which twists and turns yet continues on the same single path. Labyrinths appeared in Greek mythology some 4,000 years ago. Unlike mazes, a walk through a labyrinth is intended as a reflective, contemplative, Christian or spiritual journey ending in the centre. Historically the centre was thought to be the point from which you rose to heaven making David Harber’s mirror-polished Torus in the centre of this Labyrinth, particularly poignant as it reflects both heaven and earth. David Harber who made the Torus comments “The torus was conceived to act as a portal to another place while boldly reflecting where we are. The labyrinth takes us on a journey of discovery both in time and space but also constantly opening up new vistas and options. With both elements, we are encouraged to stop, reflect, assess, and enjoy.”
Adrian Fisher MBE, Maze Designer describes his work at Canonteign “The Canonteign Labyrinth was born of the desire of Kate and Chris Baylis to celebrate their journey through life together. To me it has been a particularly special creative experience, working with Kate, Chris and their team at Canonteign, as well as the various contractors. The act of creation was as important as the finished result, as together we considered the idea of a Path of Life, chose its site in the landscape, and discussed its design with selected texts to be cast in bronze along the path. This unique labyrinth, set in the glorious English landscape, will bring pleasure to young and old for generations to come. It gives to our world of harsh reality and mindless speed a timeless oasis, a leisurely paradise, the substance of a dream.”
Entry to the Labyrinth is included in the admission price. For more details and to book tickets visit www.canonteignfalls.co.uk.
About Canonteign Falls
Canonteign Falls is a stunning natural attraction in the heart of Devon. Visit us for peaceful walks among the waterfalls and lakes and family fun in the gardens and playgrounds. Escape the crowds and experience the highest waterfall in Dartmoor National Park.
Set in 90 acres of park and woodland, Canonteign is a must-see for Devon visitors, with walks and activities for all ages and abilities. From a gentle stroll around the lakes, to a bracing stomp through spectacular woods up to the top of the Falls, our beautiful corner of the countryside is perfect for enjoying the fresh air and having fun with the family.