My batik mandala

My Batik Mandala

Rushyan Yen,  2008

Fiber reactive dye on China Silk

The term Mandala means "circle-circumference" or "completion." It is a plan, chart or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically - a microcosm of the Universe from the human perspective. They remind us of the relationship between the constantly expanding worlds that exist both within and outside of ourselves. 

Used in many spiritual traditions as way to create sacred spaces and an aid for meditation, I employ it now to illustrate and grasp my Watson journey.

Like all mandalas, mine has a center in which all points radiate. It is the image of our planet Earth and the woman holding it is myself. 

The orange square that surrounds me represents equality and points to all four corners of the world. From each of it's sides radiates a section of Earth that I will touch. Starting in America, I will go to Thailand, Malaysia, The United Kingdom, The Netherlands, Belgium, Ghana, Mali, and The Gambia before completing my circle home.

In between these globes are the modes of transportation that will be utilized. In the course of a year, I will fly, drive, sail and walk all over the Earth and it's elements of air, fire, water and land. 

A ring of osculating colors fluctuate from dawn to dusk while the phases of the moon keep tedium in check.

The cycle of the seasons - summer, autumn, winter, spring - mark the passage of a year as well as the beginning of the end of my Watson quest. 

A background texture of wax prints from my tennis shoes was the result of my walk on this sacred ground I have created.

Overall, this composition creates a giant compass, rotating with each change of direction I make. I know that it will help me find my way this year and no matter where I am, I will never be lost - because in the end, there is no direction. 

 

For it is the journey that matters, not the destination.