Vessel of Hope Mandala - (Circles of Light series) - © Sue O'Kieffe 2007Representing the universe itself, a mandala is both the microcosm and the macrocosm, and we are all part of its intricate design. The mandala is more than an image seen with our eyes; it is an actual moment in time. It can be can be used as a vehicle to explore art, science, religion and life itself. The mandala contains an encyclopedia of the finite and a road map to infinity.
~ from The Mandala Project
As I was creating this mandala, I began to envision a very old container, something that might have been discovered in an archaelogical dig, that was believed to have held herbs steeped in oil used in healing rituals. I imagined that every time the ritual herbs were used, the dis-ease of the person being treated would be returned to the vessel and be alchemically transformed into radiant health.
Carl Jung said that a mandala represents a safe refuge of inner reconciliation and wholeness. I have long been attracted to mandalas for their healing potential, not only for the viewer but for the creator as well. This mandala was created from a photograph of daffodils for my friend Susan E., who is currently facing medical challenges.
May she be restored to wholeness.
