Mandalas use symmetrical shapes and patterns to create a focal point around a central image. They symbolize spiritual meanings and can help people understand themselves and important life experiences. Mandala art comes from traditions around the world and has been used for thousands of years as a process of self-expression and spiritual transformation. This assignment asks students to create a self-portrait mandala using symbols, animals, colors, and shapes that represent themselves, their culture, spirituality, or interests to reveal parts of their identity. Research into personal symbols and spirit animals is encouraged to inspire designs.

1. Mandala

3. Mandalas use radial symmetry, lines and shapes mirrored both vertically
and horizontally with the center acting as focal point. A variation of this
could be a spiral design.
We will focus on creating unity with variety by repetition, creation of
pattern, the proximity of objects, and the way the piece creates movement
and rhythm.
How can you symbolize meaning in your work? Color, intensity, contrast,
strong shape and line work with drawing.

4. Mandalas can help us see what is going
on within us, in our heart and soul. They
can help us remain connected to our
Selves in fundamental ways and can help
us understand the meaning of important
life experiences when we learn how to
create and interpret them.

6. Mandala means 'circle' in the Sanskrit
language, and mandala art refers to symbols that
are drawn, sketched or painted in a circular frame.
Mandala art has been used throughout the world
as a process of self-expression, in the service of
personal growth and spiritual transformation.
Tibetan Buddhism has employed mandala art for
thousands of years to capture the images of the
countless demons and gods which it believes both
plague and uplift humanity. Navajo sand painters
use them in their healing rites. Many native people
use the Medicine Wheel, a mandala form, to
connect to earth energies and the wisdom of
nature.

11. This assignment is a SELF PORTRAIT.
What shapes, symbols, animals, objects, and colors symbolize you?
What do you want to reveal in your mandala?
What part of self do you want to focus on?
Heritage, ancestors, culture, spirituality, interests, personal symbols or
mythology or a combination of many?
Research totem symbols to find a spirit animal, read through journals to
discover unconscious imagery to explore, research talisman imagery for
symbols that express luck or ward off evil spirits.
However you become inspired for this project is great! Have fun!
Push yourself to really discover something new about yourself.
Create an ambitious project that will utilize all the time I have given.
Size and materials are completely up to each artist. Buying/ finding
materials is completely up to each artist. Be prepared!

26. Timeline:
Homework- research, sketch, gather all materials to
work in class.
Be prepared!!!!!!!
Thursday oct10- present ideas, decide on final compositions,
work in class.
Homework- work 2 hours
Tuesday oct15- work in class.
Homework- work 2 hours.
Thursday oct17- work in class.
Homework- finish.
Tuesday oct22- Critique