Finding your center: Mandala art for everyone
Mandalas are rather ubiquitous in art and design, and with good reason. The circular, symmetric designs are pleasing to the eye, mind, and spirit. I’ve been making mandalas for years - they are a bridge connecting my creative practice with my spirituality, uniting two parts of my life that sometimes feel disparate.
No matter if you are into yoga or meditation, and you certainly do not need to be Hindu or Buddhist to explore this concept. Mandalas are simple and fun to make, and allow the mind to relax by focusing on a singular task. Anyone need that right now?
First, a bit of background. Mandala in Sanskrit translates to circle. The circular designs represent the entire universe, and symbolize the idea that every being is both unique AND that we are all interconnected. Traditionally, many mandalas feature deities and are used as a tool for meditation and contemplation.
Mandalas also exist in nature- you’ll find the radial symmetry in flowers, succulents, spiderwebs, tree rings, and more. Next time you (and your kids) go for a walk in nature, see if you can find a few examples of mandalas.
TUTORIAL
Materials:
Paper cut into a square (any size is fine, but I like working with 8”x8” or larger)
Paints/colored pencils/markers (whatever you already have is perfect)
Directions:
If you can, find a quiet place free from distractions and take a few deep, cleansing breaths. If this isn’t a possibility given the current state of things, it’s all good…just take the deep breaths. Begin with the art tool of your choice and make a mark in the center of your paper. It can be as simple as a dot, or more complex. Then, pick a different color or art tool and make a new layer of marks around the center. Continue to add layers (or rings) around your focal point, experimenting with various colors, tools, and techniques as you go. Once you reach the edges of your paper, feel free to go back and add details if you feel inclined to do so…or don’t. Entirely up to YOU.
Let your intuition guide you rather than overthinking. Allow your feelings to guide your color choices and style. Try incorporating words and phrases that come to mind, combining written word and marks. Once your mandala in complete, observe it from a place of non-judgement, and reflect on your experience. Note how you felt before, during, and after.
Variations:
Make it a family activity by working together on one mandala. Let each family member take a turn, allowing your unique styles to merge.
Bring stamps and stickers into the mix.
Create delightful meals or snacks by arranging fruits, veggies, or even pasta into artful mandalas. My friend creates fine art photography mandalas using her CSA produce box goodies!
Use natural objects to create an ephemeral mandala (shells, seaglass, and driftwood on the beach, or leaves, flowers and acorns in your backyard). Some amazing inspiration here.
Honestly, the possibilities are endless…this is merely a starting point. Have fun and please share photos of your creations by tagging @elworthystudio on Instagram!