What is the Concept of a Mandala?

1
What is the Concept of a Mandala?

• The concept of mandala is drawn from the ancient
  idea of the circular shape as an archetype that
  includes many elements to make it a whole. These
  special drawings were first created in Tibet over
  2,000 years ago.
• A mandala is made of a meaningful design made in
  the form of a circle.

2
Where Did the Mandala Begin?

• Tibetans used mandalas for calming themselves and
  for thinking about the meaning of life.
• Today, people often create mandalas to form a
  simple representation of who they are.

3
Why is the Mandala a Circle?

• The shape of a mandala is a circle because a
  circle is the most universal simple shape we
  find in the world around us.
• Also, since there is always a center to a circle,
  as you look at a circle it exercises your mind
  draws you to the center of yourself or your topic.

4
How Do I Create a Mandala?

• To make your own mandala, begin by thinking of
  symbols that represent who you are as a person.
• The mandala is a picture of who you are in
  symbols. It should represent your values and
  beliefs, not your possessions.

5
How Do I Create a Personal Mandala?

• To begin, you will need to spend a few moments
  thinking about whats most important to you.
• That thing/person/concept will go in the center
  circle.
• Then, you will depict the second most important
  thing/person/concept in the next circle out from
  the center. Etcetera.
• MOST IMPORTANT Try not to be literal in your
  depictions. Think symbolically. If your mother
  is most important, dont try to draw a picture of
  her, draw something that symbolizes her.

6
Presentations

• You will present two of the 5 elements on your
  mandala. You may choose which two you present,
  but you must explain the symbolism and importance
  of each element.
• We will present tomorrow at the beginning of class