SIGNS OF LIFE - WHAT THE SHAPES MEAN

Vision Mandala - (Reflection Series) - © Sue O'Kieffe 2008
source image - shrubbery

If you've been following my posts recently, you know that I've been writing about Angeles Arrien's book Signs of Life. After studying the art of many different cultures, Arrien discovered five universal shapes common to all of them. The meanings attributed to the shapes describes universal aspirations, needs, and fears; each shape symbolizes a specific inner and outer experience relevant to humankind. (p. 29)

CIRCLE - wholeness, completeness, the process of individuation - the circle remains humankind's primary symbol for unity and stands for the mythic theme of individuation.

EQUIDISTANT CROSS - relationship. This is a coupling, synthesizing, integrating and balancing process, which carries a need for connection - to a creative project, a group, another person, or oneself.

SPIRAL - growth and evolution; a process of coming to the same point again and again, but at a different level, so everything is seen in a new light. Strong need for variety, novelty and change.

TRIANGLE - goals, visions, and dreams. The triangle is associated with pyramids, arrowheads and sacred mountains. An inate gift of vision may not be recognized. Those involved in the triangle process have a great need to follow their dreams.

SQUARE - stability, solidity and security. The act of drawing a square mirrors the process of constructing a foundation. Those attracted to the square are ready to build, to implement a plan and to manifest ideas.
(pp. 31-66)



NEXT - putting it all together...