Centros
Using the circle to unite our inner life with the world around us
Called a “mandala” in the east, the construction and reflection on the circle and its relationship to the square is a practice that was common in many places such as Ancient Greek philosophical schools, Cathedrals of the Middle Ages, Hopi and Navajo people, and mystical schools in Tibet and China.
The practice of creating circular patterns opened up theorems in Geometry for the Greeks, memory for the Renaissance philosophers, psychological spaces in Tibet and China, and artist expressions of connection with nature for indigenous peoples and contemporary artists.
With tools like compass and straight edge explore the basic patterns that can be created within a circle that can lead to fractal spaces, artistic improvisation and expression with the body and senses.
“the altar upon which consciousness and life are made.”
- from The Secret of the Golden Flower
The Platform
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The Interface will be any surface that allows you to draw a circle. Learn about creating a mind map by using geometric principles beginning with the circle and incorporating objects from your local surroundings to make it come alive.
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Using a compass and straight edge, create the basic geometric shapes triangle, square, pentagon, hexagon, octagon and see their relationship with the circle.
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Learn about the history and applications of the circle and its many applications to enhance concentration, imagination and memory through mental spaces. Cultures that we will look at include:
Greek geometry as a way of life
Renaissance creation of memory maps and evolution in modern brainstorming
The use of Tibetan Mandalas and Indigenous tools for memory
Mayan glyphs as a artistic calculus to handle images in space
Using geometry to create earth art to engage with the world
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Share your creations and experiences with others in the group. Find additional resources to explore further.