Photos

A couple of monks create a sand mandala in Tauranga.

The Sand Mandala is a Tibetan Buddhist tradition which symbolises the transitory nature of things. As part of Buddhist canon, all things material are seen as transitory. A sand mandala is an example of this, being that once it has been built and its accompanying ceremonies and viewing are finished, it is systematically destroyed. (from Wikipedia)

My work mates told me about these monks who were in town creating a mandala and I just had to go take a look. It must take incredible patience to sit there sifting sand into intricate patterns. They make it look easy, but it is definitely a lot harder than it looks.

Edit: I've added a couple of Workshops showing the Sand Mandala up close with macro shots.