bookmarks & beads

The Mandala Bookmarks & Beads Project is a celebration of creativity and imagination!

Bookmarks:

The challenge- 500 activities inspired by this bookmark

The idea started when I was looking for a fun way to introduce my new learning approach to the community. When I found these bookmarks that also included herbs you could plant and grow, I started to imagine all of the potential that existed inside a seemingly little piece of paper. I collaborated with my friend Jett Green and he created the design of the bookmark to provide you with even more creative inspiration. One of the definitions of creativity is being able to imagine new possibilities from something familiar. I’m confident that if we all work together, we can come up with at least 500 activities that use this bookmark as it’s beginning inspiration. What do you think?

I started our list with 25 ideas: Try one or more of these activities, use them as inspiration to create your own and challenge yourself to come up with (and do) as many ideas as you can!

Check out the list so far!

          

Beads:

This part of the project began when I was visiting my mom and discovered containers filled with glass beads hiding in her art supply closet.  Since she’s moved onto another form of jewelry-making, she no longer had a use for the hundreds of beautiful, lampwork beads she had made.  I was determined to find something to do with her creations and I brought them back home with me.  I started by using them in crafts and giving them out as gifts, choosing beads for friends that reminded me of their style and spirit.  What inspired me most to bring this project into the community was watching the excitement and creativity that emerged when children had the chance to choose their own bead.  It’s fun to see how people are drawn to different colors, shapes and textures of the beads. Each bead is so different and inspires a variety of ideas for how to use it.  Beads have already been used by Mandala students as: hair decoration, good luck charms, and scavenger hunt treasure. What will you do with your bead?

The Challenge: Do something creative with your bead, by using it in an unexpected, innovative way.  Then, send a picture, a video clip, write the story of your bead’s life since you’ve had it...share your experience in any way you’d like.  With your permission, I’ll post your idea on Mandala’s website, so your creativity can help inspire others!

Ways to join the Bookmarks & Beads Project:

1. Participate in an event during the Bookmarks & Beads Tour- Mandala will be visiting school classes, clubs and groups around the community.  Along with the bookmarks and beads, I bring mini clay pots for kids to decorate and plant their herbs. Contact me if you’d like Mandala to visit you.
2. Attend a class or workshop
3. Email me and let me know your favorite colors and a little bit about yourself and I will send you a bead- you won’t be able to choose your own this way, but you will receive a fun surprise.
4. Sign up for the newsletter to receive updates on dates and times Mandala will be out in the community giving out beads to happy children (& adults)!