CreativeMandala art is traditionally a design in a circular format, which in the modern context, represents a symbol defining mental focus and the centering of the mind. Usually drawn with a central point inside a circle within a square or another circle, today the design is not limited to necessarily the traditional descriptions but can be about a flower or any abstract design or anything else.
Undoubtedly, executing a mandala may seem like a daunting task. But the key is to remember that most mandalas are created out of really simple shapes or designs. All you need to do is use your concentrating power and focus on each shape to make the job not only easier but a happier experience too. Here is a step-by-step guide below for you to create creative mandala art and get you through the entire process smoothly.
- Start from the central point of the design
This is of course easy to guess; initiate your artwork by designing right from the centre and then work your way outwards. You need to fill your mandala design with different designs, shapes, and motifs through one layer after another. Remember to have fun because as you start the process and then slowly see it come through you will feel a sense of deep fulfilment, as your own creative mandala artwork comes to life in front of your eyes.
- Measure the design carefully
You will need the use of a ruler. With a ruler, the length of which depends on the size of your mandala design, you have to establish a connection with the marks leading to the central point. Try to draw the lines as lightly as possible because they are there only to guide you in executing the action and light enough to be effortlessly erased later.
You will also require a compass to create circles, with each circle varying in size creating interesting patterns.
- Repetitiveness is pivotal to creative mandala art
Look at shapes connecting the bottom of one of the grids to the top of the next one and then trace their way back to the next grid down. Now try to repeat the designs again and again around the entire circle, either with a pencil or a coloured pen and create a border for each grid later using a black-coloured pen at the end.
- Alternately create each pattern
Say, you’re trying to draw a flower, so what you need to do is to alternately ensure that the placement of the petals of the flower is carried out in each row when compared to the previous one, and once done, change the shape for the third row.
- Keep it simple
Try to start with just two or three designs within one circle and then repeat them however you like, for instance, say after every 2 sections. It is the repetitiveness of each design which will make your artwork visually impressive, so care about that and not about making a complex design, especially if you are just starting. Also, you can have as many sections as you desire, just make sure to not get into a complicated design for the smaller a section is the easier the design will be for you to bring through.
- Discover your own unique style and presentation skills
Do not fret about planning out every bit of the design right at the start. Understand one thing, your imagination is very powerful and it will give you the free rein to help you figure out your own style. But of course, basics, such as starting right from the centre, or diving the design into equal parts for better control, etc., are some of the rules that you need to follow regardless of whether you are a pro or a beginner.
Let your imagination take charge and you just be the facilitator and you will be happily surprised to see how you end up creating beautiful designs that you didn’t know you could create.
- Non-circular mandala designs
These are getting increasingly popular. So, you can explore these too once you have the basic understanding down pat. From a tribal and geometric design to creating your own style of creative mandala art, any shape you create will need to follow the same rules including repetitiveness of the grid designs. You may also try out the shape of an animal or any other object you fancy, just try to go for something simple and easy to create on paper.
Remember, do not be scared about your imperfections because it is these imperfections that will make them distinct, rendering a unique personality to your creation which only you can achieve by adding your personal charm. Besides, it always takes some time to discover one’s own style through years of practice and evolving as a creative mandala artist from one drawing to another. So, each of your creation matters for each of them is the stepping stone to your future success. Hence, have fun and experiment with various shapes, motifs, designs, and patterns, and notice how you will forget about how much time has passed while you create something incredibly beautiful in your undisturbed meditative state.
