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Home  |  Toolbox  |  M3 Visual Arts  |  Creation of mandalas in nature: Land-art

Creation of mandalas in nature: Land-art

This activity reflects on human creation and nature creation, and how through collaboration, participants can construct a visual symbol that unite both. Leaves, pinecones, stones and branches, among others, will be recollected because of their interesting aesthetic or expressive qualities, in order to create a mandala. The idea behind the mandala will be discussed within the group; environmental values will also be discussed. The process integrates communication, dialogue, listening and respect in teamwork.

THEME

Environment/ Ecology / Logical, Creative and Critical Thinking

COMPLEXITY

Beginner

GROUP SIZE

5- 10

participants

AGE

13+

TIME

45 to 90

minutes

Objectives

  • To acquire knowledge in the construction of visual models that encourage group creative expression through signs and symbols.
  • To develop collaborative work habits and generate collective awareness, encouraging participation and dialogue for the development of human values.
  • Encourage sensitive attitudes and respect for the natural environment.

Materials

  • We will use recycled natural materials and objects that have the value of ephemeral beauty, resources and interesting aesthetic or expressive qualities due to their shape and colour: leaves, flowers, stones, fruit, pine cones, petals, etc. NOTE: use only fallen elements of the environment to avoid damaging plants or animals.

Overview

The collaborative creation of a mandala with natural elements facilitates relational processes that integrate communication and awareness of environmental values.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Collection, selection, and organization of materials (15 min.)
  • Organization: materials should be organized in small boxes or trays, placed near the work area for easy access.
  • Selection and grouping: sort the materials by size, color, or type.
  • Distribution: arrange the materials in concentric circles around the work area, starting from the center and moving outward.
  1. Group discussion for composing the mandala (15 min.)
  • Gather participants in a circle.
  • Provide a brief explanation about mandalas, their symbolism, and their significance in various cultures.
  • Explain how land art as a visual expression is sustainable because of its ephemeral nature and how it is allowed to decay and return to the environment
  • Encourage participants to share their ideas on what they want to express through their mandalas.
  1. Choosing the place and progressive design of the shape (20 min.)
  • Each participant selects their spot within the designated circle or space.
  • Participants begin creating their mandalas progressively, starting from the center and moving outward, following the logic of concentric circles.
  1. Visualization, feedback and sharing (20 min.)
  • Organize a visualization session where participants can present their mandalas to the group.
  • Encourage dialogue and constructive feedback among all participants.
  • Record the mandala (with a smartphone or camera) so that it can be shown later without having to keep it intact in nature.

Debriefing and Evaluation:

At the end of the activity, there will be a group reflection on the experience: what emotions and sensations arose during the creation of the mandala, how the group discussion went and what they learned about this type of artistic expression and its approach to the respect for the environment. The exchange of opinions will be encouraged and collaboration.

Tips for Facilitators:

  • Motivate participants to respect the natural environment: avoid damaging plants or animals by only using fallen elements that are within reach of the selected place for the activity.
  • Promote active listening and the inclusion of all ideas during the discussion.
  • Adapt the complexity of the mandala according to the age and abilities of the group.

Variations and adjustments:

  • Make themed mandalas linked to the seasons, natural elements or emotions.
  • Incorporate recycled non-natural materials to contrast textures and colours.
  • Adapt the activity for indoor spaces using previously collected natural materials.
  • Introduce ambient music to inspire creativity during the making.

Disclaimer:
This activity must always be carried out respecting the natural environment, avoiding damaging plants, animals or ecosystems. It is recommended not to leave any waste and to remove all materials after the activity if necessary to preserve the site. The safety of participants must be a priority at all times.

Contact

Iuliana Adriana PAVEL (project manager)

iuliana.pavel@a4action.ro
A4ACTION – Antim Ivireanu Culture House, Islaz Alley, Ghermănești, Snagov, Ilfov District, Romania, 077170

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the ANPCDEFP. Neither the European Union nor the ANPCDEFP can be held responsible for them.

The project is conducted by the following organisations: A4ACTION (Romania) – coordinator, Udruga Delta (Croatia), InterAktion (Austria), Asociación Espacio Rojo (Spain) and GAIA Museum Outsider Art (Denmark).

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