In conversation with Boulder, Colorado (USA) based artist: @morganmandala
"I paint to visually explore our connection to the world, each other, and our inner selves living the conscious human experience. Mandalas are graphic representations of the universe - the multiplicity, and the singularity; the macrocosm, and microcosm. I re-interpret and merge objects and symbols in my paintings to narrate facets of humanity and spirituality. I aim to visually create metaphors for our seamless connection to the world, and open up a wider understanding (or questioning) of what we see and how we perceive." - www.morganmandala.com
You can purchase Morgan Mandala's artwork via her:
Read on below for our full interview...
How is life in Boulder, Colorado and how much has it sculpted your outlook on life being surrounded by such beautiful nature?
I love living in the mountains of Boulder, Colorado! Growing up in the city of Chicago, void of connection nature, I always felt that something was missing. The wilderness feeds the spirit, provides endless inspiration, and commands a deep respect. People treat each other and the land with reverence knowing that a fire, flood, landslide, or snow storm has the potential to change our reality. The power of the mountain dominates, no matter how much we try to tame it with our concrete and buildings. Being able to hike each day is key to my physical and emotional health. Even if I'm on the same trail I often do, seeing the small changes each day, wildlife, and listening to the sound of the rushing water are an endless source of rejuvenation.
What does spirituality mean to you and how does it inform your creative practice?
Spirituality, to me, is a connection with the essence of existence. It's what lies beyond the physical realm, and is the interconnecting thread of all things. I believe art can be a powerful medium to express and explore spirituality. I try to approach painting with mindfulness, intention, and a respect for the creative process as a sacred act. Painting allows us the space to open up into an intuitive state, to participate in the divine act of creation, and tap into a deeper part of ourselves. The process of painting can be like a meditation. It can be a way to process emotions, and a grounding practice. In addition to practice, my art often explores themes like transformation, unity, and the unseen forces that shape our experiences, aiming to evoke a sense of wonder and contemplation in others. In this way, spirituality also informs the content of my work.
Have psychedelics played any part in informing your creative process, if so how ?
Psychedelics have influenced my art - I often paint the 'patterns' many see when they have taken psychedelics, and often try to allude to the changing technicolor rainbow trails and auras that one often experiences on psychedelics. Many of my paintings aim to capture the essence of how it feels to be viewing a space under the influence of psychedelics. The vivid color, translucent patterns, and soft playfulness are qualities borrowed from my psychedelic experiences that make their way into paintings. Psychedelics also have the potential to open us up to embody the feeling of interconnectedness, which is a common theme in my paintings as well.
What does the Mandala represent to you on a personal level?
In addition to studying Painting and Art History in college, I studied philosophy and religion as my minor. It was at this time I was introduced to mandalas. I love mandalas for their symbolic meaning, stylistic characteristics, and as a creative practice... They are a symbol that represents both the singularity and multiplicity of the universe in one image. Mandalas are a symbol of our interconnectedness. They are a metaphor for you, and they are a metaphor for the world . They begin with one (the center, or bindu), and expand outward with infinite potential. Mandalas can incorporate meaning through numbers, sacred geometry, and symbols, and can be adapted to your needs. Stylistically, they provide focal points to a painting, as well as the freedom to incorporate more abstract colors and symbols into a painting. To create a mandala, with the repeated motions and shapes, is a focused, calming, and meditative process for me as well. Creating them is a grounding practice.
Where do you find that your inspiration stems from the most ?
Life, in all of its facets, can be a source of inspiration. Painting is a practice, so I don't wait until I feel "inspired" to paint... part of it is working through the times where you may not feel inspired. Much of my inspiration comes from amazing days in the wilderness, traveling to new places, and sharing of love with family and friends, but it can also come from times of emotional distress, loss, pain, and the need to process. There is a richness to life and experience that people can resonate with no matter which end of the spectrum it originates from, so I try to be inspired and create from the full spectrum of emotions and experiences.
Are there any artists / books / people that have had a strong impact on you as an artist ?
Artists: Martina Hoffmann, Robert Venosa, Alex & Allyson Grey, Mark Henson, just to name a few artists... Art was always something I did as soon as I could hold a utensil... so I think the encouragement from family and friends has led me to continue the obsession. I try to be influenced by myself and the world around me rather than too many outside ideas, but learning about the ways different cultures see the world has also had an impact on my art. -
What lights the flame of passion inside of you ?
The wilderness (hiking, skiing, plein air painting), and travel - to anywhere really! I love to experience culture, food, varied landscapes, and the novelty of being a foreigner. The world has endless beauty and experiences to offer, and I am endlessly captivated by both the cultural differences and similarities.
How has this past year been for you ?
The past year has been full of amazing times as well as challenges. In a climate of recession where things have quickly gotten more expensive, art is the first thing that people stop spending money on, so the financial challenge has been real. Although being an artist comes with its struggles, I am incredibly grateful for the life I live, and feel privileged even in times of uncertainty. It has been a lesson in trust, as well as perseverance, and accepting help when needed.
- Astral Magazine