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Finding Calm in Chaos: Shantell Martin’s Times Square Labyrinth

On October 1st, renowned artist Shantell Martin will transform the frantic energy of New York City’s Times Square with her interactive installation, “The Path: A Meditation of Lines”. Known for her bold, flowing designs, Martin invites visitors to step into a space where art meets mindfulness. This 160-foot-long walking labyrinth, filled with her signature looping lines and playful motifs, serves as a meditative experience, encouraging visitors to slow down, breathe, and truly be present.

In a city that rarely pauses, Martin’s work stands as a reminder that art can offer moments of peace and introspection, even in the busiest urban landscapes. As participants weave through the labyrinth’s winding paths, they are encouraged to reflect on phrases like “breathe” and “are you you,” which reappear throughout the design, forming a mental map as much as a physical one. By merging her artistic practice with mindfulness, Martin’s installation highlights the therapeutic potential of visual art—a principle deeply connected to our mission at the Art Therapy Initiative.

Photo by Jac Benson II

Art as a Path to Healing

At the Art Therapy Initiative, we believe in art’s power to transform lives by providing an outlet for emotional expression and self-discovery. Whether through guided workshops, community art projects, or installations like Martin’s labyrinth, creative expression becomes a bridge to mental well-being. Her project aligns with our core philosophy: that art can be more than a visual experience—it can be a journey toward inner peace.

Martin’s labyrinth will be accessible to the public daily through November 20th, offering a much-needed respite for New Yorkers and visitors alike. In a city defined by constant movement, “The Path: A Meditation of Lines” invites you to pause, explore, and reconnect. Step in and see where the art leads you.

For more information on how art can support emotional health and healing, visit therapy.art.art.

.ART Team

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