Karens first colour Mandala
As a teenager I drew 'doodles', or abstract patterns that grew of their own accord. Noticing that I felt different after drawing in this manner I kept visual diaries. I would draw spontaneously, without any pre-conceived idea of outcome, watching the patterns expand into a design of sorts of its own volition.
I realised that these patterns reflected my emotional being at that time. Searching to expand on this idea I found Carl Jung's theories about the subconscious mind and his use of Mandalas to access it and drew my first Mandala at 16.
Within the mandala parts of my inner world appeared in a workable pattern - like putting a jigsaw together. I felt a sense of wellbeing, of achievement, almost a sense of relief that I had been able to express myself where words or even thoughts had failed. The pattern - the story - was complete within the circle and what was invisible/intangible was now visible.
This process deeply impressed me and I have worked with mandalas both personally and professionally for many years. I have had numerous exhibitions and own a Studio in Upwey. My wish has been that Mandala art be utilized in schools and with the public as a means to improve personal well being.
Karen Scott C.V.
Karen Scott is the founder and director of mandala magic – her successful business of 12 years. She has a fully equipped studio in Upwey and offers a range of workshops to the public.
As an experienced teacher and trainer she uses art as the medium for self exploration, personal and professional development.
She conducts workshops and training in leadership, communication skills and self management.
She has worked in numerous Educational Institutions, Psychiatric Hospitals, Hospitals, Government departments, the ‘not for profit’ sector, Corporate Business with Health Practitioners, Teachers and other professionals.
Some of her clients include Monash University, Vic Health, Maroondah Psychiatric Unit, Victorian Education Union, The Forgotten Australians, Anglicare, Mission Australia, the Brotherhood of St Lawerence, numerous Community Houses and Schools.
She has significant experience (7 years) with youth at risk in VCAL programmes, ‘Life’ programmes, ‘Youthfutures’ and ‘Connectus’.
Karen teaches nationally accredited Personal Effective Training courses.She conducts Train the Trainer programs for Mandala Art Therapy and has successful clients now running their own businesses.
Karen completed a 2 year Community Leadership course with the Shire of Yarra Ranges and was invited as guest speaker to leadership masters students at RMIT.
She consulted and worked to establish a Hospital for Tibetan refuges in Northern India. She is a Division 2 Nurse who lived in India for three years where she studied meditation in both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
Karen also manages a Tour company taking groups on boutique art and culture tours of India, Tibet, China and Nepal several times a year.
Widely traveled her teaching utilizes a vast bank life skills and experiences in workshops that offer valuable and unique opportunities to individuals and professionals.