Labyrinth
For years I’ve been photographing offerings that people leave in public place—expressions of love, of loss, of memory. I find these mementos in many locations, but my favorite grouping is at a labyrinth of unknown origin by the Pacific Ocean. Unidentified builders make regular pilgrimages to leave offerings in memory of their loved ones. These mementos turn public spaces into memorials to loved ones, with expressions of community loss and steadfast memory.
The labyrinth symbolizes the spiritual journey to one’s center and back out into the world, or the journey of life from birth to death. It offers a path to growth and healing. To fully appreciate the offerings at one’s feet, the viewer must join them in humility, low to the ground.
These works of memory speak to my own losses. In making these images, I pay homage to the unknown creators, celebrating the memories these artists wish to honor. My images acknowledge our connections to each other through shared memory and loss, all of which becomes blurred and degraded through the ravages of time and weather.
“Labyrinth” is available as a boxed set of memory cards, which the viewer can use for contemplation or meditation. A booklet containing many of the images is also available for purchase. Contact Jenny for more information.