Jan 18: Mural graphics 1: Mandala & Kolam

Intro

Today we are going to each draw a mandala. Inspired by the Kolam that we draw on the ground during thaipongal, today we add a little twist. Each pattern will be a symbol that signifies something we want to have, see and do in the year 2026.

Drawn by Suren in 2020

You will need:

-paper

-ruler

-pencil

-compass / protractor

-felt pens or colored pencils

Symbols

Ask students to think about 3–5 things that matter to them for 2026.

Examples:

1. Something you want to grow

2. Something that makes you feel safe

3. Something you want to learn

4. Someone or something important to you

Guide (play music while students draw)

Step 1: Demonstration (5 minutes)

Show how:

1. A circle can be divided into sections

2. One symbol can repeat around the circle

3. Different rings can hold different symbols

4. Symbols should be simple enough to repeat

   There is no right or wrong symbol

Step 2: Draw a large circle on a paper

Step 3: Lightly divide into sections or rings.

Step 4: Assign one symbol to each ring or section.

Step 5: Repeat each symbol evenly around the circle.

Step 6: Add color if desired.

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Tibetan Mandala