Mandala Bowl

Come with me on this creative journey as I transform a blank piece of cherry wood into a beautiful bowl using my lathe. I start by shaping the cherry with my laser and then join it with a piece of walnut for the base. To add a touch of magic, I’ve infused the wood with ghost resin. It’s going to be an amazing piece! 

The design for this bowl is heavily influenced by Mandalas. What is a Mandala?

Mandalas have come a long way from their origins as sacred symbols in various religious traditions. Originally, they were used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other spiritual practices as representations of the universe and tools for meditation. The intricate, geometric designs were thought to help individuals focus their minds and connect with the divine. Whether drawn, painted, or even built in 3D, mandalas symbolized balance, unity, and the cyclical nature of existence. In these spiritual settings, creating or contemplating a mandala was seen as a pathway to enlightenment, a way to journey inward and explore the cosmos.

Fast forward to modern times, and mandalas have taken on a whole new life in the world of art and pop culture. Today, they’re not just spiritual tools—they've become a creative expression of personal style and inner peace. Artists and designers use mandala patterns to make everything from tattoos to home décor, turning the once-sacred shapes into vibrant, eye-catching works of modern art. Even coloring books feature mandalas, offering a therapeutic and fun way to unwind. The beauty of the mandala has transcended its religious roots and become a universal symbol of creativity, mindfulness, and even a bit of fun in today’s art scene.