Mandala painting follows a clear, almost meditative structure: you start in the middle and work your way outwards, layer by layer. This creative process has taken on a deeper meaning for me – it's like embarking on a little journey each time, which begins inside and unfolds outwards.
The journey outwards begins within
When I start a new mandala, I focus first on the centre. It is the origin from which everything unfolds. The centre is not just a geometric point, but a kind of anchor. This is where I place the first dots and draw the first brushstrokes – concentrated, mindful and in complete harmony with the moment. It's as if I block out the whole world for a moment and focus only on this tiny centre point.
As the work progresses, the shapes grow outwards. Point by point, stroke by stroke, something larger emerges. Each new ring builds on the previous one; each new ring depends on the one that has already been painted. The centre point always remains present, no matter how many circles, patterns and shapes unfold around it.
From the inside out – a metaphor for life
Much begins within: thoughts, ideas, desires, and beliefs. Just like mandala painting, these inner impulses shape what we experience on the outside. It reminds me how important it is to look within first before expecting change on the outside. We often try to control external circumstances in order to find inner peace – but it's actually the other way around: peace and clarity begin within, and from there they unfold outward.
The final step: from the outside into the world
Perhaps this is why mandalas have such a meditative effect on so many people. The movement from the centre outwards is like a mirror of one's own inner world. Step by step, you build something up, anchor yourself in the centre and let something beautiful emerge from there.
But that doesn't mean the process is complete. Just as every dot in a mandala painting finds its way to the outside, a work of art also needs this final step: it must be released into the world. At first, it wasn't easy for me to show my work – revealing something so personal and intuitive to the public always takes a bit of effort. But perhaps that is precisely what makes it complete. The creative process does not end on the canvas, but only when other people see it, feel it and connect their own thoughts to it.
Perhaps this is the greatest gift of art: that what once began inside finds its way outwards and touches other people.
If you would like to experience this meditative process for yourself, please feel free to join one of my courses. I will show you how to create your own mandala from the inside out – step by step and at your own pace. You can find all the information you need here. I look forward to embarking on this creative journey with you!
