Mandala and Inspiration for the February New Moon

copyright Lisa Kay 2016

February New Moon Mandala

I created this mandala drawing on a snowy gray day. The sky was oppressively beautiful;  Mother Earth  stunning! The set of gray pastels that used to draw the background, I have had since my undergraduate art school days. For some reason, this seems important to mention. The nautilus shell magazine image I recycled from a "Soul Collage" that I created years ago. This seems important to mention also. I hear the chorus of Joni Mitchell's Circle Game.  I "go round and round and  round" the moon cycle circle remembering my stories.

"And the seasons they go round and round
And the painted ponies go up and down
We're captive on the carousel of time
We can't return we can only look
Behind from where we came
And go round and round and round
In the circle game."

After listening to February's New Moon call, these words flowed.  

K/now
Know now,
Notice,
Taste a new vision,
Take note.
Notice.
Being mindful of old visions;
Welcome the new 
Truth(s)
Trust.
Honor the resolute.

Self-Reflection:  What in my history is circling round for me to contemplate?

Stereopsis Moon

Stereopsis New Moon , Lisa Kay, 9/30/16

 Looking into a black ceramic crock pot, soaking in my sink, I captured this strange and astounding photo that I titled,  Cyclops. The mandala image was created from the interaction of  vinegar and baking soda. I have been contemplating and wondering about the meaning of this image ever since the new moon. What does this have to do with the moon cycle? What I discovered is that a more fitting name for this mandala is Stereoposis rather than Cylops. This greek term (stereo meaning "solid" and opsis meaning" appearance") refers to one's ability to see with both eyes that which may is hidden from each eye alone.  For me, this is a reminder to stay open to seeing and perceiving with what Educational Philosopher, Maxine Greene has called a "wide-awakeness."