Mandala Monday

 I love it when things come together.  I read about someone doing a 365-day art project.  I thought that sounded interesting but wasn't sure what I would do.  I was asked to speak at the university where my Mandala solo art show is.  They also wanted me to lead a short mandala-making workshop.  The common denominator of these two projects is a short time.   

I tested my idea for the workshop and decided it worked really well.  We start by writing or printing a word on a folded coffee filter.  Make sure the ink goes through to both sides.  We then use watercolour paint with liberal amounts of water to fill in the spaces.  Simple and quick.

This is meant to be a contemplative practice where you focus on the word you have chosen.  A process where you let the ink and paint flow and observe what happens.  The outcome is not important.  It is all about slowing down, being in the moment and enjoying it.

Starting my day with this short art meditation is a pleasure.  I am also excited to think about creating one each day of the year.  Knowing that it can be done in a short or long period of time makes it feel doable.  On days when I have more time I can spend longer on it.