There’s something oddly satisfying about watching French artist, Lx.one, draw large geometric patterns in the sand on a beach. It’s relaxing, almost. And if it’s any more relaxing to actually wield a rake and do it for yourself, well, it makes sense why someone would invest the time to produce a work of art that’s likely to be washed away with the next high tide.
Lx.one is one of many artists who stamp their work on their local beach (like Tony Plant from Cornwall, or Andres Amador). But the act of drawing patterns in sand or gravel actually has deep roots in Japanese culture.
Called samon, or alternatively shamon, the technique of making a pattern or design in sand or gravel is typical of the Zen garden, and has been for over a century, according to the Japanese Architecture and Art Net Users System. “The creation of large courtyards of raked gravel or sand originated at Shinto shrines,” explains JAANUS.
In other words, if sand art inspires relaxation, mindfulness, or a sense of calm, it’s connecting with its original intention. Classical zen gardens were designed as temples, to facilitate meditation. So think of this one-minute short as your moment of zen for the day.
