Embracing the Ugly Stage in Mandala Art

The Journey of Creation

Sometimes, when I’m working on a new piece, I hit a point where I don’t love what’s in front of me. I call this the ugly stage. Not every design goes through it, but the ones that do often turn into something especially fun and unexpected. At least, that’s what I remind myself when I start to feel frustrated that it isn’t coming together yet.

The photo here shows my current work in progress, and it’s very much in that ugly stage. I love the colors, but I started with two very different ideas, and now I’m figuring out how to get them to “talk” to each other. I also haven’t committed to the full design yet.

If you look closely, you may see a variety of ideas I’m working through and trying to decide between. There’s a good chance I keep none of them and something completely different comes out.

The Time Investment

I’ve been working on this piece on and off for about four days. Most of my mandalas take one to two days to complete, so this one is already 'demanding' more time to develop. What’s interesting is that even the foundation began as a completely different plan before slowly morphing into this version.

This is one of my favorite parts of the process, even when it’s frustrating; letting a piece take its time and surprise me.

Finding Beauty in Imperfection

The ugly stage can feel daunting. It’s like standing at the edge of a vast unknown. I often wonder if I’ll find my way through it. Yet, I’ve learned that this phase is essential. It’s where the magic happens. It’s where I discover new paths and ideas that I hadn’t considered before.

When I embrace this stage, I allow myself to explore freely. I can play with colors, shapes, and patterns without the pressure of perfection. This exploration often leads to unexpected beauty. It’s a reminder that art is not just about the end result; it’s about the journey.

The Importance of Patience

Patience is a virtue, especially in art. I find that the more I rush, the less satisfying the final piece becomes. Allowing myself to sit with the discomfort of the ugly stage often leads to breakthroughs. It’s a gentle reminder that good things take time.

As I work through this piece, I remind myself that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away. Each stroke, each decision, is a step toward clarity. I trust the process, even when it feels uncertain.

Sharing the Journey

If there’s anything specific you’d like me to share more about in future posts, feel free to let me know. I love connecting with others who appreciate the meditative quality of art. Whether it's techniques, inspirations, or personal reflections, I’m here to share my journey with you.

In the end, every piece of art tells a story. It’s a reflection of the artist’s journey, filled with moments of doubt and discovery. I hope that as you follow along, you find inspiration in the process, just as I do.

Let’s celebrate the beauty of the ugly stage together. It's a part of the creative journey that deserves recognition. After all, it’s where we often find the most profound insights and unexpected joys.