Creative Spotlight | Pooja Mehrotra
Published on 21 May 2024
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I am a Mandala Artist and enthusiast. Having practised Mandala art since the COVID-19 pandemic, I have seen the benefits of practicing this extremely creative and therapeutic art-form on a regular basis. Mandala creation has helped me find balance, inner-peace and positivity in my everyday life. I am now keen to share the joy of Mandala creation with others.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
A Mandala is a representation of the universe in a state of harmony. One creates their own mandala by training their body and mind to calm down, centre themselves and find balance. One takes inspiration from just a dot called ‘shunya’ (zero) - a state of nothingness and learns to create their own beautiful universe of harmony around this dot. In other words, your own mind, in a state of calm, is the inspiration and guide to creating a Mandala. For me too, the inspiration is within me.
How does your personal history, culture or experience inform your creative work?
I started creating simple mandalas as a means for distraction from the anxiety and stress that I was feeling during the difficult COVID times. I always knew that it is a therapeutic and meditative art but had never imagined how deep the impact of this art was. The more I dedicated my time to creating Mandalas and reading about it, the more I was intrigued by it. I was fascinated by the concepts, belief, and various styles of Mandalas in Asia and across the globe. I was especially drawn to it, because I could see first-hand, how it changes our life, makes us more accepting, peaceful and joyful towards life!
Are there any special processes, techniques or tools you use to make your creative work?
Self-love, self-acceptance, discipline, dedication and being open to the infinite possibilities are some of the important tools and techniques required for creating a beautiful Mandala.
What is a creative project that you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of? Why?
Every Mandala that I create gives me immense peace and joy. I feel pride in each one of them. Give it a try, you will feel the same way!
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
My favourite part of being an artist is the unique opportunity to appreciate my own company, find my own purpose and create my own universe of joyful art.
When I teach others, it gives me an opportunity to introduce them to the possibilities of finding balance and harmony through the process of creating their own mandala.
What’s the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
When it comes to creating Mandalas, there are no challenges. There are only opportunities and possibilities!
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you to be more creative?
Paying attention to your every breath and being there in the present are some of the basic rituals that one needs to follow. One needs to be patient and dedicated to the process.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
You could see some of my work on my Instagram page
If you are keen to learn Mandala art yourself, organise a session for your corporate or with your family and friends, please email me.