ColorNest
Ocean waves are created by wind transferring energy across the surface of the water — the water itself does not travel forward, only the wave energy does. In the deepest ocean trenches, the water is completely still and lightless, yet life thrives there. The shells depicted in this mandala are based on bivalve scallop shells, whose ribbed fan shape is one of the most ancient symbols of the sea, used in art and architecture for thousands of years. Many sea creatures build their shells using the same spiral mathematics — the Fibonacci sequence — that appears in flowers, galaxies, and mandalas.
Coloring ideas: use a full ocean color palette — deep navy and cobalt for the wave spirals at the center, turquoise and aqua for the mid-rings, and seafoam green and pale teal for the outer scrollwork. Color the fish in warm orange and gold against the cool blue-green background for maximum contrast. Give the shells a pearly cream or rose-pink tint.
Start with the darkest blues at the center and work outward, gradually lightening the tone toward the outer edge to create the effect of sunlight filtering down through ocean water. Fine-tip gel pens in metallic silver make the shells look pearlescent.
