Mirror Labyrinth NY

This interactive work was created in 2016 by Danish artist Jeppe Hein. He lives and works in Berlin, Germany. His sculptural maze, Mirror Labyrinth NY, is made up of 75 highly reflective posts made of stainless steel and aluminum. The posts are equally spaced apart and vary in height. They stand in three radiating arcs that form a labyrinth. Together they mirror and distort the surrounding environment. 

Sometimes the posts seem to blend into the landscape. At other times they stand in bold contrast with their surroundings. The reflections on the posts disorient the viewer and challenge their perception of space. As viewers move through and around the mirrored panels, they see reflections of themselves, other visitors, and the environment.

Mirrors alter and question our perception of our surroundings and ourselves. Mirrors make us reflect on our own presence by addressing our physical and mental experience of an environment and our position within it. My mirror installations always refer to the presence of the visitor and the artwork in the space, asking the audience: Why are you here? What are you doing here? How do you observe artwork and space? How are you observed by artwork and space?

Jeppe Hein

Hein is known for creating interactive public art installations that explore human perception and illusion. They also bring attention to the impact that humans have on the environment. Hein’s sculptures encourage viewers to focus on their experience and perception of the space that surrounds them. He uses minimal forms to emphasize connections between art, architecture, and technical innovation. His work often challenges viewers’ spatial awareness (knowing where things are in the space around them).

Mirror Labyrinth NY was curated for the Museum Park in 2020, but it took two full years to complete the installation during the COVID pandemic. The installation process was delayed due to supply chain issues, staff shortages, and travel restrictions.