An Insight Into The History Of Mandala Art

Brought to you by The Farah Saeed team, the Artistic Virtual Exhibition Season 6 is an international and open opportunity that aims to yet again present artists worldwide of all levels, whether beginner or professional to share their talent without borders.

The Origin Of Mandala Art

The significance of Mandala art can be traced back to the fourth century in Tibet, India, Nepal, China, and Japan. While extraordinary as a standalone work of art, mandalas hold symbolic and meditative meanings beyond their vibrant and colourful appearance.

The term ‘Mandala’ originates from the Sanskrit language and is primarily illustrated in the artworks of Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

The creation of mandalas has long been viewed as a therapeutic art form.

Whether colouring one or designing one yourself, the repeating patterns can replicate nature. They bring balance, reduce stress, express beauty, and inspire creativity.

In their most basic form, mandalas are circles contained within a square. They are arranged into sections that are organized around a single, central point. Mandala art aligns with the principles of Islam as long as no figurative images are presented.

Photo by Alesia Kozik on Pexels.com

Types of Mandala Art

There are three main types of Mandala art:

Teaching Mandala: This is a visual symbolization and mentoring guidance of what they have learned. It is connotated through colour, line shape, and form,

Healing Mandala: This form of Mandala is therapeutic and aims to channel focus and ignite calmer emotions.

Sand Mandala: This holds spiritual and cultural significance in Buddhism and Navajo culture (Native American) where each design narrates a story of unspoken words.

How to Participate?

Our Submission Deadline is closed. The art exhibition is active and open to allow you to view the amazing art submissions and other features related to Mandala Art.

Mandala Art Exhibition

References

Invaluable (2025) What is a Mandala? History, Symbolism, and Uses. Available at: https://www.invaluable.com/blog/what-is-a-mandala/ . (Accessed: 1st May 2025)

Prismacolor (2025) The History of Mandalas As Art. Available at: https://www.prismacolor.com/blog?cid=history-mandalas-art (Accessed: 1st May 2025)

Virpara, J. (2023) What is a Mandala? History and Uses. Available at: https://www.endmillkalakruti.com/blogs/news/what-is-a-mandala-history-symbolism-and-uses (Accessed: 1st May 2025)

Interested in learning more about the Mandala culture?

Please have a read of this article by https://oraworldmandala.com/