Tree of Life Mandala Print

Submitted by: Julie Jacobs, art teacher/artist at Bay Laurel Elementary School, California
Title of Lesson: Tree of Life Mandala print
Grade level / Age: K - 5

Lesson Description:

Show students examples of tree of life and mandalas that emphasize the importance of balance. A motivating introduction might include having a Tree of Life Wall Hanging in the classroom as well as a poster to get students into the mood.

Have them create borders with shapes cut from sticky foam. Students then cut out shapes from the sticky foam for the trees. It may be helpful for students to draw the shapes first before cutting them out so they have fewer mistakes.

Roll out ink with brayers on Plexiglas or wax paper and then roll ink over the foam shapes that have been stuck on the cardboard cake circles. Place rice paper on top and run baren over paper. Any tool that can be used for burnishing can be used; wooden spoons, linoleum tool handles, etc. Embellish the background with Pastels if desired.

Goals / Objectives:

Introduction to Relief Printmaking
Introduce the concept of symbols and art
Introduce the concept of Mandalas
Collage concepts
Borders/ Framing

Assessment(s):

Do students follow directions? Can they print a clean print without excessive ink? Can they create consistent prints in a series? Do they vary the shapes of the foam sheets to have thick and thin lines as well as large and small shapes?

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Book: The Rubber Stamper's Bible - Technique-led projects that introduce new and unusual methods that beginners and intermediate crafters will love, but also ensures a creative level that will inspire and challenge even the most experienced rubber stampers.

Materials Needed:

• Sticky foam sheets

• Scissors

• Cardboard cake circles

• Drawing Pencils

• Plexiglas ( You can get away with wax paper )

• Water based Iridescent Open Acrylics)

• Brayers

• Japanese Rice Paper

• Baren - or large Wooden spoons

• White Drawing Paper

See the wonderful collection of mandalas on Pinterest!

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