Concentric rings: A Unique Land Art Installation
concentric rings — The concentric rings of stones known as the Noospheric Resonator are a remarkable land art installation located between Limassol and Paphos, overlooking Avdimou Beach. Created by artist Pavel Muntyan, this site consists of three vast spiral labyrinths designed for reflection and reconnection with oneself amidst nature.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
A Vision of Meaningfulness
Muntyan’s inspiration for the Noospheric Resonator stems from a deep desire to establish something meaningful for the island that he now calls home. He articulates, “I wanted to build a place where people could come to meditate, take photos or simply be alone with themselves. It’s a non-commercial project and will remain that way, our gift to the island for its love, warmth, kindness, and openness.”
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Grounded in Local Energy
The installation is situated on a serene slope, on land generously lent to Muntyan by local resident Antonis. Muntyan describes this location as having a unique energy, a harmonious blend of wind, sun, and sea with a view of the Troodos mountains, making it an ideal spot for meditation and contemplation.
Symbolism at the Heart of the Resonator
The name Noospheric Resonator is derived from the term ‘noosphere’, which refers to the sphere of human consciousness. Muntyan perceives it as “the layer of ideas and consciousness that unites us all—the highest stage in the Earth’s evolution, when intellect becomes the main creative force.” He aims to manifest this connection physically through his artwork, creating a place that attracts kindness and rationality.
Labyrinths as a Means of Reflection
The labyrinths within the installation are infused with rich symbolism. Muntyan states, “Stone is the most ancient material, a symbol of stability and eternity. Spirals represent movement, evolution, and infinity. I wanted to unite these two forces, the eternal and the living.” At the core of the site is the Labyrinth of Knowledge, featuring 12 circles and 290 steps, a number symbolically aligned with the days of human gestation. For Muntyan, walking through this labyrinth serves as a metaphorical rebirth.
Balancing Energies
Flanking the Labyrinth of Knowledge are two smaller labyrinths: the Masculine Labyrinth, constructed from blue stones, and the Feminine Labyrinth, crafted from red stones. These formations invite visitors to restore balance within themselves. Muntyan notes that these planetary labyrinths, with their nine circles each, are ancient symbols found across various cultures from the Solovetsky Islands to the Mediterranean.
The Money Square
The layout culminates in a section called the Money Square, designed to channel “the energy of prosperity.” This space is adorned with intricate mosaics and bronze fish, all crafted by Muntyan himself.
A Decade of Creation
The Noospheric Resonator has been a decade in the making and remains a work in progress, continually evolving. Muntyan reflects on the early days of construction, stating, “At first, I worked there with my mother.” The project is entirely non-commercial, with each element created by hand and imbued with passion.
Natural Design Process
There is no rigid master plan for the installation. Muntyan explains, “Everything is born spontaneously, shaped by the climate, available materials, and sometimes coincidence.” An example of this spontaneity is the arrival of megaliths, large stones gifted by a friend who owned a nearby quarry.
Commitment to Local Materials
In keeping with the installation’s ethos, Muntyan emphasises the use of local stone while ensuring that the natural landscape remains undisturbed. “Everything is done by hand and from the heart,” he asserts. Typically, construction occurs on Tuesday mornings when the area is quiet, allowing the team to work without interruption. “By Wednesday, people already notice the changes we’ve made,” he adds.
The Intersection of Art and Meditation
For Muntyan, the act of creation serves as a form of meditation. He shares, “When you create something, especially in physical space, you enter a state of total concentration and presence. Art and meditation are the same act, just expressed through different means.”
A Personal Experience for Visitors
Visitors to the Noospheric Resonator are encouraged to engage with the labyrinths in their own way. Muntyan notes, “Visitors come for different reasons; some read tarot, others dance, and some simply sit and listen to the wind.” The only guidelines are to leave no litter and avoid causing damage. Ultimately, Muntyan believes the experience is about finding inner silence, rather than adhering to ritual.
Lessons from the Resonator
Reflecting on his journey, Muntyan describes the Resonator as more than just an artwork; it has been a teacher. “It taught me patience, gratitude, and humility,” he says, adding that it has deepened his love for Cyprus in a way that words cannot fully express.