A man with glasses and gray hair, wearing a light gray shirt over a darker gray shirt, standing with crossed arms in front of framed artworks on a white gallery wall. The artwork behind him appears to be a black and white abstract or nature-inspired piece with intricate line work.

MANDALA 4

Brush and Ink on Fabriano Artistico, 22 in x 30 in (76,2 cm x 55,8 cm) unframed.
Production 2013

This drawing is part of the series of seven drawings developed in the style of Buddhist mandalas, that is to say, starting from the center going to the periphery. It is a long process involving the artist's capacity for concentration and presence. Over 100 hours of diligent work were required to complete each drawing. It was a question, at each work session, of finding the same state, the same peace of mind.

These are imaginary creations inspired by my years of work as a botanical illustrator and my observations of natural elements, and with the exception of No 6, these were executed directly in ink, without prior drawing. Which in itself constitutes a great challenge for the artist.

The execution of this series was for me very therapeutic, as it was developed during the first two years when I started working as a freelance artist again.

The number 4 of the Mandala series, by Canadian artist Marcel Jomphe.