Mandela Dot art. Painting mugs

Mandela Dot art.  Paint a plate or mug based on which is being done that week.  Every other week starting in October.  Jenna our teacher will education us on tips and tricks on this beautiful new trendy art. 

**Mandala Art Explanation**:

The word "Mandala" is derived from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit and translates to "circle." Mandalas represent wholeness, unity, and harmony. They are circular designs, often intricate, that start from a central point and radiate outward in symmetrical patterns.

**Key Features of Mandala Art**:

1. **Symmetry and Balance**: Mandalas are typically symmetrical, creating a sense of harmony and balance. This symmetry is believed to be visually appealing and calming to the observer.

2. **Center Point**: At the heart of every mandala is a central point, often considered the starting point of the design and representing unity and singularity.

3. **Layers**: Mandalas often have multiple layers or rings, which can represent deeper levels of the universe or the human psyche.

**Significance and Uses**:

1. **Spiritual Symbol**: In various religious traditions, especially Hinduism and Buddhism, mandalas hold spiritual significance and are used as tools for meditation and attaining higher levels of consciousness.

2. **Psychological Tool**: The Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung believed mandalas to be a representation of the unconscious self. He found that creating mandalas helped his patients express feelings they couldn't put into words.

3. **Art Therapy**: Mandalas are used in art therapy because of their ability to help individuals explore their emotions, improve self-awareness, and promote personal growth.

4. **Cultural Expressions**: Many cultures around the world have their versions of mandalas, such as the intricate rose windows in European cathedrals or the circular Aztec calendar.

5. **Aesthetic and Decor**: Apart from their spiritual and therapeutic significance, mandalas are also celebrated purely for their beauty and are often used as design elements in tattoos, artwork, and home decor.

Creating or coloring mandalas can be a therapeutic process, helping individuals to relax, focus, and tap into their inner self. The repetitive nature of the patterns allows for immersion into the art, which many find meditative and calming.