Mandala provides a quintessential example of the Eastern philosophical influences at the root of Morris Graves’ artistic practice. Mandala, the Sanskrit word for circle, is loosely defined as a geometric symbol or figure traditionally used in Eastern religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, as a tool to aid meditation and spiritual practices. Mandalas can be figurative or abstracted, elaborate, or simple, and they often represent the universe, or a sacred space through which one conducts a spiritual journey. The mandala serves as a map for these spiritual rituals to be followed from the outer edges of the design continuing through the visual layers to its core.