Oct 5

Oct 5 Making a Nature Mandala

creativity, craft, Fine motor skills, outdoor play, Science, sensory

Looking for a way to connect with the natural world through play and creativity? Making ground art is a simple activity that you might really enjoy (I do!)

In the example shown in these images, you will see a mandala created by a group of children, but you could make any shape or image that you choose.

Creating art like this can be fun. It can also be mindful and relaxing (and exceptionally beautiful). Visit artist Andy Goldsworthy’s website to see amazing images of his work.

Making your own Mandala

Collecting is a task all of its own; it could happen over days, weeks, months or on a single day. Spend time hunting out a range of materials.
Materials could include: rocks, seedpods, pinecones, sand, sticks, shells, bark, leaves, flowers, and grasses. Materials like these give children options to explore and experience the natural world. Different elements provide colour, texture, shape and weight for small hands and eyes to enjoy.
Create an outer border and a centre point to provide structure and give a starting point.
You might like to work from the centre out in consecutive circles or divide the circle up into quarters (there’s no right way!)

Let colour and repetition play a role.

As it begins to take shape, you might notice your child’s concentration (and your own) developing.

This is such an enjoyable activity - I cannot recommend it highly enough!

I think one of the things that makes it enjoyable is knowing the mandala won’t be there forever. This releases you from trying to create something ‘perfect’ and allows a more playful artwork to develop.

It can be a great collaborative project with your family or wth a group of friends.

Have fun creating your ground art!