Cool Hunting

Mandala, a Sanskrit word of Hindu origin, most often refers to a symmetrical detailed pattern representing the universe and the unconscious self. In some religions it serves as an aid in meditation or to establish a sacred space as well.

For Japanese artist Mario Tauchi, who illustrated 108 black-and-white versions of Mandalas for Trolley Book's "Mario Mandala." the motif plays a slightly different role. Using the format of a traditional coloring book, Tauchi bends the traditional mandala into a more organic, jellyfish-like form to be filled in with color. The excruciatingly detailed illustrations take on different feels with each added color making for a rewarding, if not trance-inducing, experience.

Perforated pages allow the user to tear out colored works (perhaps to denote their own sacred spaces).

Purchase it from Trolley Books or Amazon.