8th-Mandalas and Radial Balance

The mandala is one of humankind's most ancient art forms. With the circle as its basis, it reflects eternity and all of nature: the sun, the moon and even the bird's nest. Types of mandalas may be found in all religions, as well as in psychology.

The word "mandala" is Sanskrit for "circle." According to mandala artist Charles Gilchrist, creator of "Sacred Geometry," a wandering guru may have brought the first meditation mandalas to Tibet in about the eighth century. Mandalas have been found across the Far East, and Native Americans symbolism is based on the "sacred hoop." Mandalas are considered to be of Eastern origin, but it would be difficult, if not impossible, to find any civilization without some awareness of the circle's symbolism and potential for spiritual self-examination.

Mandala History
Mandala History 2


















For this project, you will create two mandalas. One on the iPad, using procreate and one physical mandala using paper, pencil, and colored pencils.

DIRECTIONS:

Use the video below for step by step instructions on making your physical mandala. 

 

For the digital artwork, you will use procreate on the iPad.

To set up your drawing in Procreate

1. Click the plus sign for a new piece and choose square.

2. Click the wrench icon and turn on Drawing Guide

3. Click, Edit Drawing Guide

4. Click Symmetry, Radial, and Assisted Drawing

5. For a square mandala you are ready to go.

6. For a circle mandala turn on Rotational Symmetry.