Mandala
The mandala is a visual design. The word mandala derives from the Sanskrit for ‘circle’. Mandalas can be square, they can be three dimensional. They are often symmetrical, but again, not necessarily so.
Many cultures use mandalas in their spiritual expression, from Asia to the Americas. Many people think of mandalas as pertaining to India and Tibet, but one can rightfully describe Native American medicine wheels and dream catchers as mandalas.
The embracing shape of the mandala draws the eye to the centre, They invite focus and concentration.
Below is an Asian style mandala.
Mandalas can be quite complex in design. They can also be simple. The Yin-Yang symbol can be construed as a mandala. A circle can be a mandala.
Think of a circle. Circles imply a centre. Radii extend from that centre to the circle’s edge. The radii, of course, are all the same length. An infinity of radii reach from the centre to form the circle.
Circles, just by their nature, suggest wholeness, balance, and centering.
And here is a possible mandala. It is a plate with the familiar Blue Willow pattern. Within the ornate border is a world and a story. It is a mandala. What story would your put in yoiur mandala?