FORMER MAP MAKER SPENDS HOURS WALKING IN THE SNOW TO CREATE GIANT GEOMETRIC PATTERNS

For the artistically inclined, snow is a vast blank canvas. However, it is frequently restricted to snow sculptures, such as snowmen. Simon Beck, a geographer and outdoor enthusiast, had an alternative concept and has made a name for himself (literally) in the snow painting industry over the last ten years. He walks over fields the size of soccer balls that are blanketed in unspoiled snow to create enormous works of land art. His geometric patterns, when combined with light and shadow, are best seen from above.

Beck's mind is set up to create this kind of ephemeral art. In order to prepare his design in advance, he first makes maps; one millimetre on the page corresponds to one step on the ground. After completing the preparations, Beck heads out into the snow with a ski pole and snowshoes, among other equipment he may require. He also loves being outside, and he spends up to 12 hours a day in the snow to make his pictures come to life on paper. As a result, a wintry wonderland is transformed into a transient artwork.