THE META-IDEOCALLIGRAPH MANDALA

Meta-ideocalligraph mandalas vary the classic format of Hindu & Buddhist mandalas. Single or composite ideocalligraphs may be placed in the area surrounding a circular or rectangular border. The border itself may have openings at the corners of the rectangle or at any point along the circumference of the circle. The ideocalligraphs placed in these openings can imply movement in either direction, from or into the centre. Ideocalligraphs in a gap on the circumference line may also assume an integral and stable place as part of the border line itself. The events at these openings can increase the integration of the external and internal environments. Also, the observer’s initial intuitions may be guided towards an ultimate and personal interpretation by the nuances of the ideocalligraphy. This establishes a relationship between observer and calligrapher.

Some meta-ideocalligraph mandalas may well not overtly make use of the circle or rectangle, but one or other of these classic devices is likely to be suggested by the form of the ideocalligraphs used. The essential element in the design is always the centering effect of the content.

A meta-ideocalligraph mandala is like a constellation of ideocalligraphs found inscribed on stone beside the path taken that day through the mind by the calligrapher. A quiet journey pen in hand towards completeness and self-unity. It is not overly ambitious. It is simply the state of mind inscribed at that moment.

These cumulative inscriptions are made towards a personal destination without presuming an arrival - and yet perhaps finally there is one. C.G.Jung said of the mandalas that came to him that they  “… were cryptograms concerning the state of the self which was presented to me anew each day.” “There is no linear evolution; there is only a circumambulation of the self.” Meta-ideocalligraph mandalas are visual constellations which offer another way towards deeper understanding, integration and self-awareness.