"The mandala is an abstract design, usually with an identifiable centre point and a geometric pattern in a circle around it. The word mandala is, in fact, a Sanskrit word meaning 'circle'. Creating a mandala can be a peaceful, meditative and often therapeutic activity; mandalas can represent the connection between our inner worlds and outer reality. As we navigate ageing and health, finding this balance and connection is critical. For me, creating a mandala like this one brings peace and balance, not only as I create, but as I move into daily activities and challenges."

"A tiny drop of water creates ever widening circles. A small act - to challenge the status quo, to disrupt a system of oppression, to question an ineffective policy - can have the same effect, and result in a spreading and deepening influence."

In this project, we learned to use art to express our thoughts and journeys. I tried to reflect that here - the trial and error, the tools used, the gentleness of the process in the subtle colours and subject matter, and ultimately, the joy of creation."

"A work of art which did not begin in emotion is not art." - Paul Cezanne