"A mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the universe."
I've always been intrigued by mandala art and its intricacy, like a beautiful maze that you have to stare at for a good few minutes. I started sketching some freehand (while referring to some Google images) on my travels in Japan to pass some commute time away. I eventually started sketching them as gifts on cards/envelopes to loved ones.
[IMAGE: https://steemitimages.com/DQmcvk6myEZkBeMjNEHabetGxz7RpyPG4QfSYTFY8VUuusx/image1%20(1).jpeg]
Tantric Buddhists actually use mandalas as an aid to meditation. Studying and internalising every single detail of the mandala and then can be 'summoned' at will with an absolute clear and vivid visualisation of it. For me, it is a sort of meditation already when I'm drawing out the details and feel it being mapped out from its center point. The final detail drawn and then looking at the finished work feels like I have exited a maze!
![IMG_0580.jpg]
(https://steemitimages.com/DQmWCJmqEzoNZ8CrzB3S6KuxH343ARBBaiRbyQ4mbJJXnD3/IMG_0580.jpg)
[IMAGE: https://steemitimages.com/DQma2ydCD5LZoN54ryVnCQT68bUgGVWLbvTF617RigXwq9t/IMG_0597.JPG]
I hope these pieces help you look forward to a peaceful weekend!