Creations

Gouverneur High School

Students in fine arts classes created sand mandalas following study of mandala images in diverse cultures. Students used straws and other implements to mimic the monks' use of chakpu, vajra, and shinga tools, and chose symbols and images connected to their personal beliefs and dreams. After sweeping the sand used in the mandala into a pot thrown and glazed in pottery class, students planned a ceremonial walk to the Oswegatchie River to disperse sand.

	Ruth demonstrates the use of homemade tools in Gouverneur's mandala construction.
	Alicia and Lee sweep up extra sand as the final image takes form.

Vikki and many hands help refine the image.		Amanda completes her section of the mandala.

Aerial view of the nearly-completed mandala.