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MANDALA TUTORIAL
What is a Mandala?
The word
"Mandala" originates in the ancient Sanskrit language and simply means
"circle". A circle is where a series of points are all the same distance
from a central point, although that point itself may not even be visible.
The centre of the circle represents a metaphysical 'source' point from
which form flows inward and outward. Nature creates it's own mandalas in
many forms, such snowflakes, flowers and even the planets.
A mandala can help with inner healing by
providing a focus of energies - the symmetry and flow of colour and symbol
draws the eye towards the centre, then outward again, with a defined
boundary and helps with contemplation of our inner energies. There is no
beginning and no end to a circle, and yet a sort of universal wholeness
contained within it. They can be a source of inspiration, of reflection
and of gaining insight into the patterns of life.
How to Draw Mandalas
There are no rules to drawing a mandala,
whatever you create is as it should be. You can either start from a
central point and work outwards, or draw a circle and work inwards. I have
found the easiest way is to draw a circle with a compass, perhaps add a
few inner circles, then mark 30 degree points around the edges using a
protractor, and simply 'connect the dots in whatever form comes to mind.
Here are some basic forms to work from and combine.
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Draw a
circle with a compass and mark points each 30 degrees. You can make
the points closer together, say 20 degrees, or further apart. |
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Look at the
ways those points can be connected. Two squares form an 8 sided star
for example. |
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The same
basic circle, using two triangles, makes a 6 pointed star. Add circles
and you soon see patterns emerging. Let your eye and feelings tell you
which 'dots' to connect. You may be surprised at the result! |
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Place the
compass on each of the angles and draw a semi-circle for each one. If
you do this for each 30 degree mark (for example), you create a lovely
pattern. |
I personally use watercolour pencils to
colour, as it is easier to be precise. However any form of colouring, from
paint to charcoal can be used. Let your imagination take over - if you get
a feeling to add a particular colour, picture or shape, then go with it!
Have fun!
Mandalas I have for sale on Oztion!
Click on the image.
Other examples of some of my mandala work. |
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