How Mandala Art is related to Math [5 Different Ways]

Mandala art is a form of artistic expression that has been around for centuries. At first glance, it may not seem like there is a connection between mandala art and math. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that mandala art and math are related in many ways.

The word mandala is a Sanskrit term that means “circle.” This is fitting, as the central feature of mandala art is the use of circles and other geometric shapes. The intricate designs and patterns that are characteristic of mandala art are created using geometric shapes, such as circles, triangles, squares, and hexagons.

These geometric shapes are arranged in precise, symmetrical patterns, which is where the connection to mathematics becomes evident. The use of symmetry and geometry in mandala art allows for the creation of complex, beautiful designs that are pleasing to the eye.

In addition to the use of geometry, mandala art also involves the use of mathematical concepts such as proportion and composition. The artists who create mandala art must have a strong understanding of these concepts to create balanced and harmonious designs.

Furthermore, the process of creating a mandala itself can be seen as a mathematical exercise. The artist must carefully plan and execute each step in the creation of the mandala, using mathematical principles to ensure that the final result is aesthetically pleasing.

In short, mandala art and math are related in many ways. From the use of geometric shapes and symmetry to the application of mathematical concepts such as proportion and composition, mandala art relies heavily on the principles of mathematics. This connection between the two fields makes mandala art a truly unique and fascinating form of artistic expression.

We will now go deeply into how math is related to mandala art.

5 Ways Mandala Art is related to Math

1) Golden ratio

In many different sectors of study today, there is a lot of discussion regarding the golden ratio, which is just the peculiar number 1.618, also referred to as the phi number in Greek.

There are many excellent designs in mandala art that incorporate the golden ratio and produce very visually beautiful and mathematically perfect designs. These designs are also believed to be sacred and divine, and many people use creating such designs as part of their spiritual practices.

2) Fractal geometry

Fractal geometry is essentially a pattern that repeats itself, adding layers to the subject or object. An example of a fractal that is simple to understand is a snowflake, tree branching, lightning, etc. Fractals are limitless, which makes them incredibly fascinating.

Fractal geometry is used as a spiritual notion to understand the universe much more deeply. It is quite similar to how we create mandala art by repeating patterns.

3) Hindu yantras

Hindu yantras combine the principles of mathematics and spirituality to create incredibly original mandala designs. A yantra is small and used to dedicate a place, but a mandala is larger and more commonly employed in architectural applications. This is the only distinction between a yantra and a mandala from a historical perspective.

However, the geometrical principles used in yantras and mandalas are the same.

Many mystical yantra patterns exist, including the Shri Yantra, Shri Mahalaxmi Yantra, and many others. Even though these yantra designs are quite reminiscent of mandala artwork, they have a special mystical geometry that elevates and sanctifies them.

4) Fibonacci series

The numbers in the Fibonacci series/sequence are 0,1,2,3,5,8,13, and the next number may be obtained by adding the last two numbers. It’s a highly intriguing mathematical notion that nature displays in many different ways, including the structure of the sunflower pattern, shells, and various plants.

This idea is widely used by artists to create mandalas that seem like sunflowers, which are visually highly appealing.

5) Energy flow and triangles

Looking for forms in mandala designs is a really simple way to understand arithmetic and geometry. Especially if the pattern is particularly precise and geometric, you will see many triangles in the design.

Triangles that face upward in any mandala design typically signify energy flowing upward, which indicates spiritual development, while triangles facing downward indicate creativity, fluidity, and more feminine energy. By observing and evaluating, you may always look for triangles and learn more about the design.

Thank you so much for reading this far; I hope this post has sparked your interest in how mandala art is related to mathematics, and I hope you will delve deeper into some of the mathematical concepts presented here and utilize them in your own mandala art.

Also, read What does Mandala symbolize [7 Important Things].

FAQs on How Mandala Art is related to Math

1) How does any art connect to maths?

Mathematical studies and art both require similar abilities like logical reasoning and pattern recognition, that’s how they are connected.

2) What is geometry in mandala art?

Geometry is an intrinsic part of the mandala design, as it is a combination of circles and patterns in mathematical order.

3) Is the mandala a geometric design?

Yes, Mandala art is geometric design.

4) Is mandala a symmetry?

Yes, it’s a symmetrical concept of art.

5) Can a mandala be of any shape?

Mandala art is mostly of circular and square shape.

6) Is a mandala always a circle?

Not really, many Tibetan mandalas are square in shape, and sometimes they can be triangular as well, but one thing is sure, they will be of cyclical nature.