Mermaid retailer Mandala 9L

This is the second of two mermaid mandalas that I made when our fireworks were cancelled for the fourth of July. It's red, white and blue on a royal blue background. This stone is 3" in diameter and 1" high. It weighs 8 ounces.

I started painting mandalas on beach stones as a meditation practice during Covid when I found myself needing to bring calm and focus to my day beyond my morning ocean swims. The process of choosing colors as I go and the organically developing patterns were soothing and satisfying. This is the true nature of a mandala. I like to say that my mermaid mandalas are inspired by a mermaid with imagination and a deep love of the ocean.

This hand-painted beach stone was carefully chosen from the Rhode Island shoreline retailer where it was smoothed by southwest breezes and clear salt water.

It has been painted freehand with acrylic paint and varnished for protection from the elements. I haven't used any stencils or guiding aids so irregularities may be found but I believe that is the beauty of any handcrafted work. Every stone is a natural shape and textures vary. It is water resistant but not waterproof and is not suitable as a toy or for young children. It should be handled with care. Blows and scratches can affect the surface in some cases.