Testimonial
From: Dian Coleman Winingder
Re: The
Labyrinth at Audubon Park, New Orleans, LA
In 2006 I was honored to have the privilege of working with Marty Kermeen to
build the Labyrinth at Audubon Park. This project was in the works for several
years. It was the first public labyrinth to be built in the City of New Orleans.
Construction began in January following the devastation caused by Hurricane
Katrina to the City of New Orleans.
This labyrinth is a symbol of hope and renewal for our city. This construction
represented the first project to be started and completed after the storm.
The construction site became a place of hope and renewal for many citizens
who had lost everything. Marty and his workers were on the site from sunup
to sundown. They never stopped working for two straight months, with one
exception - they always stopped and found a few minutes to visit with each
inquisitive passerby. They explained their work and gave encouragement to
those in need. The labyrinth site became a healing place and a place to witness
actual rebirth. The work was fascinating and at the same time encouraging
to so many.
The final result, the exact replica of the eleven-circuit labyrinth from
the Chartres Cathedral is truly a masterpiece. I am convinced that Marty
Kermeen, with the constant support of his wife Debi, and the assistance of
his faithful workers and stone cutters, is the best labyrinth builder in
the world. He understands the complicated geometry and has the passion and
perfection to create this ancient design. Each stone is cut and placed with
care and intent. Marty seems to have a special gift that goes beyond our
understanding. It was a great honor to work so closely with Marty and I will
always treaure the opportunity I had to be so closely involved on a daily
basis with this project. Today, one year later, the labyrinth stands as a
symbol of hope and renewal for the New Orleans community. It is as beautiful
today as it was the day of completion. This labyrinth will be with us for
centuries to come and will always be a place of hope and renewal.
On behalf of the friends of the Labyrinth at Audubon Park and the staff of
the Audubon Institute, we thank Marty for his contribution to rebuilding
the spirit of the city of New Orleans. He went beyond what was expected and
created a masterpiece in stone. Dale Stastny, Director of Audubon Park joins
me in thanking Marty and his team. They all proved to be perfectionists,
were a joy to work with and we are all proud of the process and the end result.
If I can of further assistance or can answer any questions, please contact
me at 504.586.8305, or by mail at 400 N. Peters, # 203, New Orleans, LA 70130.
Sincerely,
Dian Coleman Winingder