Neve Cromer 9/23/2014 A2

 The word Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning “Circle”  The traditional Mandalas belong to the Tantric Hindu and in Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana Buddhism) and they are also used in Jainism.  Mandala art began appearing as early as the 3 rd century B.C.E.

 When the first Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, started teaching his ways the student created art to symbolize his beautiful concepts. These images were spread with the religion across all corners of Asia.  The word Buddha comes from Indian languages Pāli and Sanskrit which means "Enlightened one".

 Mandalas can be described as visual representations of the ideal universe were all the cosmic forces have struck a perfect balance and when the mind has achieved enlightenment.  To the artist, the Mandala can have a significant personal meaning. The artist’s purpose can be concerned with the process of invocation the calling in and realization of the spiritual force within the contemplator himself. It is most commonly used in meditation.

 Tibetan monks create the large (~2.5 ft in diameter) Mandala out of sand and the dust of precious gems. After ritual they destroy the Mandala, symbolizing how the visual aid will never amount to the concept of which they are trying to represent.  It can be painted onto paper, wood, stone, cloth, and walls  They can be made into tapestry  In some traditions they can be reproduced in ephemeral material such as butter or colored sand.  The role of the Mandala is so significant that architectural structures and temples may be built to resemble giant mandalas.

 In today’s fashion mandalas focus on the lotus concept of peace, balance and unity. Designs, like the traditional Mandala, are intricate, complex and unique.

 Mandalas today can simply be used as an expression of one’s creativity and self. They can also be used as a form of meditation.

 · Blume, Nancy. “Exploring the Mandala.” Asia Society. N.p., Web. 20 Sept  · ž”Buddhist Art and Architecture: Symbolism of the Mandala.” Buddhist Art and Architecture: Symbolism of the Mandala. Buddha Dharma Education Association, Web. 20 Sept  · Violatti, Cristian. “Mandala.” Ancient History Encyclopedia. N.p., 07 Sept Web. 20 Sept