CIRCLE MAGIC
is a short workshop series exploring the extraordinary geometry of the most basic of mandalas – the circle.
Suitable for beginners and those who wish to revisit the beginner’s mindset, Circle Magic introduces tools and techniques to help you get started with the Mandala Magic process.
This short course is an exploration into the remarkable geometry of the circle – the most basic of mandalas.
Although not all mandalas are circles, circles are the most common form of the mandala symbol.
In Circle Magic, you will discover some of the geometric properties of the circle that you can employ to create an endless variety of mandala designs and practice your unique mandala style.
Depending on your experience and depth of interaction, this course will take between 5-10hrs to complete and can be revisited to create new and interesting designs at any stage in your mandala practice.
Topics Covered in Circle Magic
Circle Geometry
Practice + Preferences
Constructing Circle Grids
Compass Skills
Identifying Patterns
Working With Colour
Refining Your Design
Universal Patterns
Observation & Recording
What Others Are Saying About Circle Magic
“Thank you Julie for a very instructive and foundational course; so helpful in laying the groundwork for mandala making and/or for reviewing it; very interesting too, to see how you create and build the varying parts of your workshops – like interlocking gears, built on a solid foundation; and which allow the student to become increasingly aware of the connections and relationships that play a part in her/his own lives and in our worlds, within and without.
“I really loved Julie’s teaching on “circle magic.” The pacing was ideal for me. Each exercise was easy to follow. Each step was small enough that I could accomplish it with ease, and that accomplishment gave me the confidence to try the next exercise.
I liked that Julie encouraged us to be as accurate as possible but to be OK if our diagrams were not perfect.
I looked forward to each video and found the exercises relaxing and centering.
In addition to learning fundamental principles of geometry, some basic human tendencies that connect to geometry, such as our need to find patterns, were also shared. I found those principles very interesting.
Julie eased us into writing about the exercises in a way that felt natural. I found taking time to write my reflections after exercises added value.“
“When basic geometry takes you to the next level is impressive.
How with very simple geometric elements you can build and paint an astonishing mandala, your mandala art!
Easy to follow, easy to perform!
You find geometrical resources as well as intuitive ones referring to circles, points and lines.”
Start Your Mandala Practice Here
If you are a creative individual who is prepared to practice, then you are already on your way to becoming a confident mandala artist.
However, if you don’t know where to begin, you can become frustrated when you come to make marks on the page and don’t know how to pull them together into a pleasing form.
Whilst it is true that Mandala Magic practice is all about working through a process and making meaning from it, no matter the result, it is also true that we want you to create mandala art that you love.
In Circle Magic, we provide you with the very beginnings of your Mandala Magic process and from the outset, encourage you to create your own designs, by learning how simple geometry can offer you a starting point from which you can create beautiful custom mandalas.
Along the way, you will practice identifying patterns available to you in the mandala grid framework using different methods you can go on to employ in your future practice.
You will also have the opportunity to;
- practice using tools to help you with your mandala construction,
- experiment with colours,
- learn some methods for refining your design to make it pop on the page,
and learn how simple observation can be the cornerstone of the written elements on your page, helping you combine words and images that hold meaning in the moment and beyond.
What if You’re Already a Mandala Artist?
There’s the famous Zen philosophy of Shoshin, which encourages us to adopt the beginner’s mindset. Loosely translated, this philosophy put into practice helps us practice mindfulness through a sense of being open and curious, just as are when we are a child.
“In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” – Shunryū Suzuki
It’s an incredibly useful practice when it comes to the creative process, particularly as a way to overcome artist block or discourage the loud inner critic that perches on our shoulders, being sanctimoniously judgemental about every mark we make.
Rewinding back to the very basics can help us understand more about our preferences, introduce forgotten techniques and develop our skills further.
There’s also the irresistible invitation to keep practicing beyond the first attempt, and cross the boundaries of the known into the unknown to create something beyond your conscious awareness.
These Circle Magic exercises can even be used in the same way that the pianist will practice scales to encourage dexterity and flexibility.
They’re incredibly helpful as the basis for experimenting with a fresh colour palette, or new medium and offer you a perfect way to overcome the fear of making your first marks in your brand-new, precious art journal!
I really enjoyed the whole process, including the review of basics. I
think the progression from “I think I can do this” to “Wow, I can’t
believe I made that” is brilliant!
Recommended Supplies
What you’ll need to participate is simple;
- sketchbook or paper (cartridge paper is usually fine)
- graphite pencil and eraser
- ruler
- drawing compasses
- round objects to trace around (like coins, bottle lids or similar household objects)
- colouring materials (we used coloured pencils in the demonstration exercises)