Within Art We Hear Our Soul-Self Speak Mandala 1

‘The aim of art is not to represent the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance’
~ Aristotle

Around twelve years ago I was called to embark on a sacred journey using plant medicines.

In preparation for this journey the Shaman requested that I sit quietly and allow my higher self to guide the creation of a piece of art in the form of a mandala that would represent my soul’s intention for my trip.

Traditionally a mandala is a spiritual symbol representing the Universe. In various spiritual traditions, mandalas are employed to focus attention as spiritual guidance tools.

As I hadn’t done any art since I was a small child, I was curious to what would transpire as I nervously put borrowed colored pencils to a page of dull white paper whist sitting on a damp beach in Carlsbad CA.

It was a captivating experience, one that I’ll never forget. Time slipped into no time as I allowed my unconscious to guide color, texture and design. I had no investment in the outcome, and I felt free to be.

Later, as the Shaman interpreted its meaning through various art interpretation methodologies (elements, color, astrology, numerology, symbology) I was amazed at how the mandala spoke volumes to my current state of being and offered insight to my future.

He encouraged that I use the mandala during the journey, to look deeply into it and to call on it if I found myself needing extra support.

It was an experience that I shall never forget. Not only did the mandala provide me with support and a portal in which to travel but it also brought a deep desire to create more art. It was as though a long-lost piece of expression hidden inside of me had suddenly seen the light and was desperate to shine forth.

Since then, I have created many mandalas to help facilitate my spiritual growth and development. During meditation I am constantly offered images and symbols and often feel a needy compulsion to render them into existence. I see them as gateways to a better understanding of my higher self. And when I allow space to ‘hear’ their messages they transport me to realms of being so otherworldly I am transfixed.

Because I am so enamored by the insights provided through the creation of mandalas, I now incorporate their creation into my client practice. Every new client is requested to paint or draw a mandala that represents their intention for working with me.

This process has allowed for my better understanding of where they’re at, and what they need (even a returned piece of blank paper speaks!) as well as inspiration and motivation for their commitment to my programs.

Along with incorporating art interpretation into my practice, I also occasionally create pieces for any client that requests this service. The significance of these mandalas, whilst not necessarily pertinent to me, is typically very powerful and relevant to the client.

I therefore have no doubt that art is a direct line of communication for Divine guidance, and I recognize that my relationship to art and spirituality is that of a two-sided coin.

Within art we hear our soul-self speak.