Diameter 14" Yellow Poplar
A number of years ago after joining WOW I was struck by Pam Reillys mosaic enhancements. I realized then the potential for graphed designs similar to but not limited to those used in cross stitch.
Last fall Mike Cunningham posted a photo of one of his pieces. I contacted him to see if he would share some of his information about the basics of creating a canvas for a graphed design on wood. He was gracious and generous with his advice and direction.
Even though I love looking at the American Indian designs used by a number of other turners I didnt feel comfortable with going in that direction. Since last October I have made three pieces using graphed geometric designs. The first two were plate forms with the same design on front and back. One of those sold before Christmas.
The idea of turning a disc, convex on both sides, rather than a plate evolved during the creation of the second plate. I made several Christmas ornaments to try the idea out. This is the first of my Mandala Disc series. As you can see from this picture and the next the design is the same on both sides however the colors are not.
The word Mandala is from Sanskrit and is loosely translated to mean circle. It is used in several Eastern religions. My favorite definition is taken from You Are the Eyes of the World by Lipman and Peterson. An integrated structure organized around a unifying center. I find thinking about the design, creating the canvas and transferring the design to be very relaxing.
Any constructive criticism is appreciated.
