Introduction

The Impermanent Earth Mandala Project is a public art initiative that draws from ancient spiritual traditions to create a modern meditation on impermanence, community, and our connection to the earth. Our artists travel to a location and spend days or even weeks on hands and knees, meticulously placing millions of grains of locally-sourced, naturally pigmented sand, crushed flower petals, rich soils, and various seeds to form breathtaking, intricate mandala designs. These designs often incorporate both traditional Buddhist symbolism and motifs inspired by the local environment and community, creating a unique piece that is deeply rooted in its place.

The process is open and performative; the public is invited to witness the painstaking creation, often in silence, fostering a shared space of contemplation and focus. The mandala grows slowly, a testament to patience and dedication, becoming a focal point for the community. However, the core philosophy of the project is the acceptance of impermanence. Once the mandala is complete and has been enjoyed, a dissolution ceremony is held. The artwork is ritually swept up, and its materials are returned to the earth, often poured into a local body of water as a blessing, symbolizing the constant flow and cycle of all things.

This act of non-attachment is a powerful statement in a world obsessed with permanence and ownership. It teaches the value of the process over the product and encourages viewers to find beauty in the present moment. The project is documented through professional photography and film, creating a permanent record of these temporary wonders. We also host workshops teaching the basic techniques of sand mandala creation, empowering others to explore this meditative art form in their own communities.

Funding from this campaign will cover the costs of travel for our artists, the procurement and preparation of natural materials in each location, and the documentation of the mandalas through photography and video. Your support helps us bring this powerful, transient beauty to communities around the world.

The Problem

Modern life often prioritizes the permanent and the material, leading to a disconnect from natural cycles and a fear of loss and change.

Our Mission

Our mission is to create profound public art that visually demonstrates the beauty of impermanence, fosters community reflection, and reconnects people to the natural world through the materials themselves.

How Your Contribution Will Be Used

Funds will be used for artist stipends, travel logistics, the sourcing and eco-friendly dyeing of tons of sand and natural materials, and professional documentary filmmaking.

Stretch Goals

If we exceed our goal, we will create a documentary film about the project and develop educational kits for schools to teach the principles of impermanent art.

Why This Matters

This project offers a peaceful, visual counter-narrative to consumerism, encourages mindfulness, and provides a shared cultural experience that celebrates letting go.

Rewards for Donors

• $10 – A digital download of a mandala photograph.
• $20 – A set of 5 postcards from different mandala installations.
• $30 – A small vial of sand from a dissolved mandala.
• $50 – A digital photo book of the best mandala designs.
• $100 – An online workshop on creating small-scale earth mandalas.
• $250 – A commissioned, small-scale mandala created for you (and dissolved) via private video link.

Support Us

Help us spread a message of peace and impermanence. Support this project and bring a temporary masterpiece to a public space.