mandala – WRITING INSIDE VT

As mentioned in the previous post, we created visual mosaics after our writing last session. The invitation was to consider placing the visual within a large circle to indicate the sense of the moment, as a mandala does.

Our materials were simple: torn pieces of bright-colored magazine pictures of landscapes, animals, sunsets, black-and-white trees — plus shreds of bright tissue papers. It is always surprising to see the range of products from similar materials, as well as the variation in feeling that can be created from such simple materials.

The few images below capture some of the intensity and mood variations around the table that night. Please do enjoy them.

sunrise to sunset – AMc

the missing pieces – MGa

hearts on fire – TD

don’t try to figure it out – AG

confusion – RS

quiet – KW

bliss – LB

From time to time we augment our writing circles inside prison with art-making. These mini-projects take many forms; yet, however simple, they have one feature in common. Art in any form allows women to access feelings that often sit deeper than words, even deeper than conscious awareness of their existence. Almost universally, sharing the artwork around the circle at the end of our time together permits an ‘aha’ connection. The experience has taught the woman something about her inner process or her world view. And more often than not, this ‘aha’ leads to a new understanding of what is needed, now.

The mandala below, completed by NL during a recent session, places into focus the whole of her intentions in response to this prompt: ” A mandala is a sacred circle containing an image or message of wholeness for your life – to inspire you, to live by. Use words that feel strong and true, that remind you of the possibilities of living a whole life, neither in the box nor given entirely up to fate.”