As I reflect back on my recent visit to NYC and the spontaneous visit to the Met, I find myself weeks later still in awe of what I discovered there.  Seeing and feeling handmade artifacts from the Buddhist Devotional Art exhibit somehow has internally captivated me. What left the most lasting impression was the incredible intricacies of the designs as well as the unique materials used, regal in design with gold leaf, gemstones, silk tapestries so beautiful they almost made me weep.  You could feel the Tibetan love, energy and  spiritual essence of the maker in the objects found in paintings, sculptures, textiles, costumes, weapons and instruments and an assortment of ritual objects.

My reflection of the Met exhibit has also brought thought to the broader implications of artistic creation and appreciation, weaving together concepts from various cultures to explore the profound relationship between creators, their art, and consumers. The Buddhist sand mandalas have left the greatest thought provoking ideals simply because this process of mandalas creation, destruction is in such great contrast to our modern world of efficiency and quick production to increase consumerism.  The modern world embodies attachment to our materialistic possessions oftentimes lacking the deeper appreciation to these objects.

The Buddhist sand mandalas obscure attachment and exemplifies the principle of non-attachment, a core tenet of Buddhist philosophy.  The painstaking creation and subsequent destruction of these intricate artworks serve as a powerful metaphor for the impermanence of all things.  This practice encourages a focus on the process of creation rather than attachment to the end product.

Mandalas are intricate symbolic diagrams that hold great significance in various spiritual traditions, particularly in Buddhism and Hinduism. Here’s more information on mandalas:

1. Meaning and Symbolism:

• The word “mandala” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “circle” or “center.”
• They represent the universe, cosmic order, and one’s spiritual journey towards enlightenment.
• The circular shape symbolizes wholeness, unity, and the cyclical nature of existence.

2. Types of Mandalas:

• Sand Mandalas: Temporary creations made by Tibetan Buddhist monks.
• Painted Mandalas: Found in Tibetan thangka paintings and Hindu art.
• Architectural Mandalas: Seen in the design of temples like Borobudur in Indonesia.
• Natural Mandalas: Patterns found in nature, like flowers or snowflakes.

3. Creation Process of Sand Mandalas:

• Monks use colored sand to create intricate designs.
• The process can take days or weeks to complete.
• Creation involves precise measurements and specific color symbolism.
• Often created for healing, purification, or to commemorate special events.

4. Spiritual Significance:

• Acts as a tool for meditation and concentration.
• Represents the journey from ignorance to enlightenment.
• Each element and color has specific spiritual meanings.

5. Use in Psychotherapy:

• Carl Jung introduced mandalas to Western psychology.
• Used as a tool for self-expression and exploring the subconscious.

6. Cultural Variations:

• Found in Native medicine wheels.
• Present in Islamic geometric patterns.
• Appear in Christian rose windows in cathedrals.

The destruction of mandalas, particularly sand mandalas, is a fascinating and profound aspect of Tibetan Buddhist practice. The dismantling ceremony or dissolution ritual usually occurs shortly after the mandala's completion and often accompanies chanting and rituals. The process of destruction begins from the outer edges, moving towards the center.  Monks use brushes to sweep the sand inward, mixing colors and then the mixed sand is collected in a vessel.  They then dispose of the sand by pouring into a flowing body of water.  It is believed this is completing the full cycle or circle of life by returning the sand into water where it was first created by the movement of water. This act is also believed to disperse the blessings of the mandala.  Sometimes, small portions are given to spectators as blessings.

As my thoughts move on from the monks to the artisan, both creators, I find myself thinking of the artisan process and the attachment to their creation. I find myself wondering what motivates an artisan to put their time and energy into creating to only detach from that object?  How must it feel to put your loving devotion into the creation to then release it - give it away, sell it or destroy it. Perhaps the act of creating itself can be a form of meditation and self-expression and as the East has done for centuries found in Tibetan Mandalas objects are more than just things, but vessels of energy, creativity and a conduit to the creators emotions, ideas, or spiritual energy.