Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Located in King’s Park, the Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth is a commemorative outdoor labyrinth garden for Manitoba's beloved citizen and writer. It is a circular, permanent and participatory outdoor space that reaches 45 m. (150 ft.) in diameter and extends approximately 1 km, from its entry to the centre and back out, along a circuitous path. The labyrinth is bowl-shaped and slopes down 0.9 m. (3 ft.) at its centre. The path’s edges are lined with a variety of native perennials, ornamental shrubs, engraved bricks and boulders, with strong material references to Carol Shields’ writing (i.e. Larry’s Party and The Stone Diaries). The labyrinth itself is fully wheel chair accessible. Phase 1 of the project was completed in the summer of 2008 at a construction cost of $160,000, which included the labyrinth’s interior features, tree planting and a feature quote wall. Phase 2 was completed in the fall of 2009 at a construction cost of $27,000, which included the interpretive signage and a gathering area.