Losing Touch with Creativity

Throughout my education, I pursued creative subjects passionately, but upon entering the workforce, I found myself drifting away from that part of me.  The hustle and bustle of adult life, coupled with the pressures of a career, swallowed up my time and more significantly, my energy.  The years went by, marked by several bouts of depression, each one deepening my sense of disconnect from my creative self.

Rediscovering Art During Lockdown

Fast forward to 2020.  The world was in lockdown, and like many, I found myself with an abundance of free time.  I had recently changed careers and was now working from home with my brother.  The monotony of binge-watching endless series on Netflix in the evenings quickly grew tiresome, and I craved something more fulfilling to occupy my time.

In my quest for fulfilment and inspiration, I often turned to YouTube, where I would search for relaxing craft videos and I stumbled upon pouring art, which looked like a lot of fun, so I decided to give it a go.  It was fun, but also expensive, using a lot of paint and different mediums.  The mixing of the paint took longer than actually creating a piece of pouring art and this left me feeling somewhat unsatisfied.  I stopped doing this after a while and yet still craved for more creative outlets.

Then I came across videos of mandala painting.  The intricate designs and the meditative process of creating them struck a chord with me.  I was reminded of my younger days, doodling mandalas and finding joy in patterns and symmetry.  The simple act of creating these balanced designs made my brain happy.

The Healing Power of Mandalas

Drawing and painting mandalas soon became more than just a pastime—it became an addiction.  But beyond that, it turned into a form of meditation and a source of profound relaxation.  The process of creating mandalas allows me to focus my mind, leaving behind the chaos and stress of everyday life.  They take hours to complete which is more satisfying to me, I love the details and spending hours over them.  Each stroke of the pen or brush brings me closer to a state of inner peace.

Looking at my completed mandalas has a similar effect.  Their intricate patterns and harmonious symmetry help clear my mind, offering a sense of clarity and relaxation.  The act of creating and the resulting artwork both bring me immense happiness, acting as a balm for my soul during difficult times.

Sharing the Joy of Mandalas

My journey back to art, particularly through mandalas, has been transformative.  It has reconnected me with my creative spirit and provided a much-needed outlet for expression and relaxation.  Through my small business – Stari Art, I aim to share this joy and tranquillity with others.

I create these paintings not just for myself, but with the hope that they can bring the same sense of calm and happiness to others.  Whether you find peace in creating mandalas yourself or simply enjoy looking at them, I believe that these beautiful designs can offer a respite from the stresses of modern life.

Conclusion

Art has the power to heal, to bring joy, and to connect us with our innermost selves.  For me, mandalas are a testament to that power.  

They have transformed my life, providing a meditative practice that brings clarity and peace.   As I continue to create and share my mandala art, my hope is that you too can experience the profound benefits they offer.  Whether you are looking for a new creative outlet or simply seeking a way to relax and unwind, I invite you to explore the world of mandalas. 

Let these intricate patterns and harmonious designs guide you to a place of calm and happiness, just as they have for me.  I am excited to share this journey with you and help you discover the magic of mandalas.

Thank you for joining me on this creative adventure.  May my mandalas bring you the same joy and tranquillity that they bring me.  See more of my art here.

My Journey into Mandala Art

My journey into the world of mandalas began as a search for deeper fulfilment in my artistic endeavours.  Initially, I experimented with pouring art—a technique that, while enjoyable, left me wanting more.  The process of mixing paint often took longer than the actual creation, leaving me with fleeting moments of artistic expression but overall a sense of incompleteness and dissatisfaction that the process was over so quickly.  I still find this art form enjoyable to look at and I do love to watch some of my favourite creators still creating over on YouTube.

During my explorations of creative outlets I started thinking back to my youth, where being creative was at the forefront of my life.  I did GCSEs, A Levels and an HND all in creative subjects and I started to recall my fondness for patterns and symmetry.  The intricate designs and harmonious balance found in mandalas resonated with me on a profound level.  Unlike the fleeting nature of creating pouring art, mandalas offered an opportunity to immerse myself in meticulous details, providing hours of engaging and calming work.  This meditative quality made mandalas the perfect medium for my artistic expression.

The History and Significance of Mandalas

The term “mandala” comes from the ancient Sanskrit language, meaning “circle.”  Mandalas are intricate, circular designs that have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world.  Their origins can be traced back to early Hinduism and Buddhism, where they served as spiritual symbols representing the universe, the self, and the journey towards enlightenment.

In Hinduism, mandalas are often used in rituals and meditation practices, symbolising the cosmos and the divine.  The intricate patterns and symmetry are believed to represent the balance and harmony of the universe.  Similarly, in Buddhism, mandalas are used as meditation aids, guiding practitioners on their spiritual journey towards enlightenment.  The creation of a mandala is considered an act of devotion, and the process itself is seen as a meditative practice.

Mandalas for Meditation and Relaxation

Mandalas are not only visually captivating but also serve as powerful tools for meditation and relaxation.  Whether you are creating a mandala or simply observing one, these intricate designs can help promote a sense of peace and mindfulness.

Creating Mandalas

For those who create mandalas, the process is inherently meditative.  For me, the repetitive patterns and symmetrical designs require focus and attention to detail, allowing my mind to enter a state of flow and peace.  This state, I often describe as being “in my arting zone,” is where my distractions fade away, and I become fully immersed in the act of creation.  The rhythmic nature of drawing or colouring mandalas reduces my stress, lowers anxiety levels, and provides a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Observing Mandalas

Even for those who do not create mandalas, simply observing these intricate designs can be a form of meditation.  The complex patterns and harmonious symmetry can draw the viewer’s attention, encouraging them to focus and contemplate.  This can lead to a calming effect, helping to clear the mind and promote relaxation.  Many people find that gazing at a mandala allows them to experience a sense of inner peace and balance.

Incorporating Mandalas into Daily Life

Integrating mandalas into your daily routine can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your well-being. Here are a few ways to do so:

Art Practice: Set aside time each day or week to create your own mandalas.  Use this time as a personal retreat to unwind and focus on the present moment.  Check out my YouTube Channel for videos on tutorials and my process (I don’t have many yet, but filming and editing more over the coming months, so keep an eye out!) YouTube Channel

Colouring Books: Mandala colouring books are widely available and can be a great way to experience the benefits of mandalas without the need for drawing skills.  I plan to make my own in the near future, but check out this link for one of my favourites Mandala Colouring Book

Decorative Art: Surround yourself with mandala art in your living or workspace. These visually pleasing designs can serve as a constant reminder to find moments of peace and reflection throughout the day.  I have many for sale, check out my Shop Page for my mandala pieces for sale.

Meditation Aids: Use mandalas as focal points during meditation sessions. Allow your gaze to rest on the patterns, letting your mind settle into a state of calm and concentration.

Conclusion

Mandalas offer a unique blend of aesthetic beauty, spiritual significance, and therapeutic benefits.  For me, creating mandalas has become a deeply fulfilling practice that provides a sense of calm and joy.  Whether you choose to create your own mandalas or simply appreciate their intricate designs, these timeless symbols can serve as a powerful tool for meditation, relaxation, and inner peace.

At Stari Art, I celebrate the transformative power of mandalas and invite you to explore their benefits in your own life.  Discover the tranquillity and satisfaction that comes from engaging with these beautiful and meaningful designs.