PERSONAL MANDALAS AND RADIAL DESIGNS
How to draw a mandala
Virginia Fleck - Mandala Artist - Re-purposed Materials
Motion with the Phenakistoscope
How to draw a mandala
Virginia Fleck - Mandala Artist - Re-purposed Materials
Motion with the Phenakistoscope
BIG IDEA: You will create a personal radial design while discovering both cultural and scientific origins. Different techniques will be explored for each grade level. 1. Printmaking and printing blocks, tessellations (6th grade) 2. Shape, texture and form with color – large single paper (7th grade) 3. Paper-mache bowls with radial designs, Icosidodecahedrons & Polyhedra (8th grade)
ESSENTIAL QUESTION: How can a mandala design be connected and reflect science, math and world culture? KEY KNOWLEDGE: You will review and know:
Cymatics with Evan Grant Navajo Chant - Cymatics Visualized Cymatics & Resonance Video How to make a cymatic sounder How to make a cymatic plate |
Look closely for hidden words in the pictures
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1. Relationship of radial design to water crystals and the power of water. We are all made of 70% water
2. What you give out is what you create.
3. We all have our own unique “sound”, pattern and signature.
3. Sanskrit for circle - The single point at the center of the circle is called the "Bindu."
4. YANTRA – Sanskrit for “instrument” is a geometrical diagram meant to inspire inner visualizations & meditations.
DESIGN PROCESS: (Activities)
MAGNET THEME CONNECTION: Engineers study the radial balance of birds, insects and other animals (BIO-MIMICRY) to develop aircraft for aerospace technology. Bio mimicry is the examination of Nature, its models, systems, processes, and elements to emulate or take inspiration from an order to solve human problems. As symmetry underlies nature, science and mathematics, many problems can be solved and many issues resolved by the application of principles based on symmetry in engineering and science. Biomimicry is innovation inspired by nature.
How do I know when I am finished? (Goals, 6 &7th grade)
When I am finished:
MANDALAS LINKS:
History of the Mandala
Asia-Mandala History
Native American Mandalas/Dream Catchers/Symbols/History
Traditional Mandala Symbolism
SACRED GEOMETRY:
Archimedean Solids – Fold Up Patterns
Sacred Geometry
2. What you give out is what you create.
3. We all have our own unique “sound”, pattern and signature.
- Know what a MANDALA is:
3. Sanskrit for circle - The single point at the center of the circle is called the "Bindu."
4. YANTRA – Sanskrit for “instrument” is a geometrical diagram meant to inspire inner visualizations & meditations.
- GAIN INSIGHT TO CULTURE: It is hard to find a culture (past or present) that has not recognized the symbolic qualities and transcendental potentials of the circle and its various geometries. The circle is the first two dimensional archetype, a metaphysical doorway of Oneness.
- Use SYMBOLS (and patterns) to communicate ideas.
- REVIEW ART ELEMENTS and basic vocabulary of (sacred) geometry – pattern, unity, balance, symmetry, radial design, golden mean, PI, geometric ratios, and geometric figures were often employed in the design of Egyptian, ancient Indian, Greek and Roman architecture. Medieval European cathedrals also incorporated symbolic geometry. Indian and Himalayan spiritual communities often constructed temples and fortifications on design plans of mandala and yantra.
DESIGN PROCESS: (Activities)
- On large paper trace a circle template and neatly cut out. Recycle extra paper.
- Fold the circle in half, then in quarters, then in eighths. Crease
- Select a design: Words (Positive), Abstact (Shapes and Line), Symbol (Personal)
- Unfold and draw on only one of the "pie slices." At this point check with teacher to make sure design is approved.
- Transfer image to each square by folding paper and tracing image to the next triangle slice using light table or window. Continue process until it is a full radial design.
- If necessary due to smudged lines or ripped paper – take design and retrace again without having to fold paper.
- Color according to your needs. Select a color plan. May outline with black or colored sharpie. Blend colors and values with medium of choice.
- Mount on black paper when finished.
MAGNET THEME CONNECTION: Engineers study the radial balance of birds, insects and other animals (BIO-MIMICRY) to develop aircraft for aerospace technology. Bio mimicry is the examination of Nature, its models, systems, processes, and elements to emulate or take inspiration from an order to solve human problems. As symmetry underlies nature, science and mathematics, many problems can be solved and many issues resolved by the application of principles based on symmetry in engineering and science. Biomimicry is innovation inspired by nature.
How do I know when I am finished? (Goals, 6 &7th grade)
- Art demonstrates well organized composition, symmetry and blending skills to create form.
- You have been approved by teacher.
When I am finished:
- Create another version of a mandala. Make more than one.
- Research mandalas in books provided or links provided.
- Free draw.
- Silent read.
MANDALAS LINKS:
History of the Mandala
Asia-Mandala History
Native American Mandalas/Dream Catchers/Symbols/History
Traditional Mandala Symbolism
SACRED GEOMETRY:
Archimedean Solids – Fold Up Patterns
Sacred Geometry