The creation of a labyrinth begins at its center, where a point of inception is chosen, grounding the design in time and space. From the moment of conception, the journey unfolds through imagination and intention. We form a compass, orbiting the origin and shaping the circuits that engage our environment and form a pattern of perspectives. The outer circle creates the container, establishing the sacredness of the space and defining its domain.
Orientation is key— directing the entryway and determining what will be faced in the middle. A simple string will guide both the entrance path and the one that leads to center. A perpendicular line calls in the four directions, becoming an axis mundi connecting heaven and earth. Smaller arcs drawn from the line ends yield 180 degree turns, giving the walk rhythm and balance. At the center rosette, sacred geometry infuses the design with symbolism, while the perimeter lunations radiate a field of energy. The archetype is awakened, and the journey is yours.
In this workshop, we will discover the universal patterns and symbolism woven into the design and experience of the labyrinth. Participants will learn to easily draw a 5-Circuit Chartres Variation, using it as a map, mirror, and mandala for exploring the metaphors of life. The labyrinth can help us better understand our life journey as we return to our center and the source of creation. Together, we will reflect on our orientation, perspectives, and connection with the universe, using the labyrinth to behold our personal cosmology. Through drawing, tracing, and walking labyrinths, we can find our role in the evolving universe.
“Symbols enable us to enter into experiences that are otherwise impossible.”
– Brian Thomas Swimme
Lars Howlett, Faculty
Lars Howlett builds, walks, and photographs labyrinths as a practice in mindfulness. He is a Veriditas Faculty Member and Certified Advanced Labyrinth Facilitator having trained with the leader of the labyrinth movement, Lauren Artress, at at Grace and Chartres Cathedrals. For three years he was the apprentice to Master Builder Robert Ferre, learning the art of sacred geometry and his methods of creating proportional and precise Classical and Medieval patterns. In 2015 he launched Discover Labyrinths LLC based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Lars inherited his mentor’s custom tools, labyrinth library, and workshop curriculum. In 2017 Lars was named a Master Builder by contemporaries in his field.
Now leading a new generation in designing and building labyrinths, Lars works hand-in-hand with individuals and institutions. In workshops, writing, and tours, he shares his experiments and experiences. He has been an invited speaker at schools, retreat centers, art museums, and at Grace Cathedral, as well as the 2011-16 conferences of the Labyrinth Society (TLS). He is a member of the Wisdom Circle of TLS, serving as a board member from 2014-17 and was the coordinator for World Labyrinth Day from 2014-18, a global event with more than 5,000 participants in 30+ countries on the first Saturday in May. In 2021 he became a part-time staff member of Veriditas as the webinar coordinator, social media manager and resource developer.
