The creation of an American Indian Inspired Mandala is an artistic endeavor that begins with a salient starting point, a dot that symbolizes the birthplace of all existence in space and time.  Navajos call such a point Hajíínéíí (a spiritual place of emergence). The circle and other geometric shapes are born of it.  To the American Indian, the circle—beautifully simple and unchanging—is much more than just a circular shape.  It is a metaphysical doorway to Oneness. Accordingly, the completed Mandala symbolizes wholeness—all that is important to the wellbeing of our physical and spiritual self.

Native American cultures historically and presently use the circular form in their art and in their ceremonies, such as those around a “Medicine Wheel,” a circular pattern of stone surrounding a center stone.  Hehaka Sapa (Black Elk), a holy man of the Oglala Sioux, called the medicine wheel the “Sacred Hoop.”  Recognizing that the circle is a powerful form, Black Elk said, “The power of the world always works in circles and everything tries to be round.” The underlying theme in American Indian spirituality is to honor the sacredness of the great circle of life.

Throughout history, sacred traditions around the world have used “mandalas,” the universal term for sacred circle, as images that direct individuals to the center of their being and to their relationship with the universe. Mandalas are found everywhere in human cultures; especially, where awareness of unity is understood and celebrated.  By studying mandalas (especially from a Native American perspective) as geometric designs intended to symbolize the universe, Anselm strives to stay connected to his Native American circular roots through the exploration of mandala imagery, which also serves as a means to an expanded way off thinking.