Artworks: Kate Leppard

What is a mandala?

A mandala is a diagram or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically; a microcosm of the universe. They are often circular to represent the earth, sun, moon, universe and the circle of life and in Sanskrit the word mandala literally translates as circle. The design is usually focused around a central point called the
bindu, which represents the observer as a single point in the universe.
Mandalas appear in many different cultures although they are said to originate in Hinduism andTibetan cultures as an aid for meditation. Some of the most common mandalas, that are used to create a state of deep meditation are called Yantras and these are the physical form of a mantra. Another mandala that can bring deep peace is the geometric design of flower of life and
I will post a video and instructions, by art therapist, Charmaine Husum in heART space.

The Kalachakra mandala: photo taken in Dharamsala by Kate Leppard 

Mandalas in Art Therapy

Image by Katy Vinson

​Mandalas are used in art therapy as a way to centre and ground. They also offer focus and insight. Mandalas can often offer healing and help you perceive your inner and outer worlds and explore boundaries. Drawing a mandala may also help you to organize your ideas or goals. Often by creating a mandala levels of stress and anxiety decrease.

Carl Jung believed that “Mandalas are an outward projection of the psyche, representing a safe refuge and movement towards psychological growth and healing” (Jung, 1973). Jung believed that the mandala is a way to explore unconscious thoughts.

​Although different cultures use mandalas in specific ways, in therapy there is no right or wrong way to create a mandala.

Materials

Drawing

A resource, suggested by fellow art therapist, Katy Vinson, is ‘how to grow a mandala. This focuses on using basic shapes and geometric patterns to build a mandala. Starting in the centre and expanding out is often the way

Drawings by Katy Vinson

Adding Colour

Often people will draw a mandala and add colour after usually with colouring pencils but you may also use soft/oil pastels or paint. Colours may symbolize different elements or represent feelings or qualities. For example green may symbolize the heart. Or you may choose to do this intuitively or spontaneously.

Image left: Katy Vinson. Image above: Kate Leppard

Collage

One of my favourite ways to create a mandala is through collage. I cut a number of shapes, like 8 circles of exactly the same size and 4 triangles of colours that I like from a magazine.Then I begin to play around with designs before gluing them down to create a symmetrical design.This can be a low pressure way to start creating mandalas and a way to have fun!

Images: Kate Leppard

In Nature

​A incredibly beautiful way to explore mandalas is to gather materials in nature and start to play with them. You may start with creating a circle and then build circles around it using leaves, stones, flowers or shells.

Artist: Andy Goldsworthy

Artist: Kate Leppard

Mandalas in Ceremony

Mandalas are also often used in ceremony and as a way to mark an event or create an intention or make an offering. You may create a mandala where different parts symbolize what you want to create in your life.

I wish you playfulness, a willingness to experiment and explore and creativity with your mandalas.

Any questions, please email me at [email protected]