A mandala is a decorative design that starts from a central point to create a circular image. Mandalas are often made up of intricate geometric designs - repeating colourful patterns using lines and shapes.
A mandala can often have a special meaning to the person who created it. In Hindu and Buddhist cultures, for example, mandalas are often used as meditation aids designed to support the person’s spiritual development. The circular patterns represent the universe, the interconnectedness of living things and the cycle of birth, life and death. Mandalas are especially significant in Hinduism as they are considered to be a spiritual tool to help ‘centre’ the focus of believers.
Click here for more information about mandala designs, patterns and how they are used in different cultures around the world.