The Mandala Social

A Must-Experience Event: The Visual Festival! At The Mandala Social, we are always inspired by events that push the boundaries of creativity, and the Visual Festival is a shining example. Created by Kari Kola, a world-class light artist and a valued collaborator on many of our projects, this festival transforms Finland’s winter darkness into an extraordinary canvas of light and imagination. Held in Kari’s stunning Botania Gardens in Joensuu—500km north of Helsinki—this festival is where nature and visual art come together in perfect harmony. Since 2018, Kari and his talented team have built this event into an international platform for experimentation and collaboration, providing inspiration for both artists and audiences alike. This year’s lineup is extraordinary, featuring: ✨ Studio Toer – Renowned for their innovative light installations and interactive design that push creative boundaries. ✨ Kari Kola – Presenting “Learning Colors,” an awe-inspiring exploration of how light transforms perception, highlighting his unparalleled artistry. ✨ Janez Grošelj – Showcasing “Alchemy of Atmospheres,” a luminous journey that channels the raw power of nature’s forces. The Visual Festival is more than an event—it’s a transformative experience that immerses you in beauty, creativity, and connection. 📅 When: November 28 to December 1, 2024 📍 Where: Botania Gardens, Joensuu, Finland We wholeheartedly recommend this festival for anyone passionate about light art and the magical interplay of light and nature. 👉 Learn more and secure your tickets: visualfestival.fi #LightArt #LightFestival #TheMandalaSocial #KariKola #LightAndNature

Lights On Romania 2024: A Beacon of Awareness and Radiance From November 23 to December 8, 2024, the vibrant city of Cluj-Napoca will once again shimmer with the luminous brilliance of Lights On Romania, a festival that transforms how we perceive art and reimagine public spaces. Curated under the auspices of the Daisler Association, this year’s festival continues its tradition of enchanting audiences with grand-scale artistic displays, all while embracing the profound theme of Awareness. This cornerstone ethos weaves together three pivotal dimensions: 🏙️ Architecture – Honoring the edifices that forge our urban landscapes and cultural essence. 🌱 Environment – Kindling a reverence for our planet and advocating for its stewardship. 🤝 Individual-Community Synergy – Contemplating the threads that bind us within the societal fabric. A Glimpse into the 2024 Edition Immersive Artistry: An enthralling tapestry of light-infused installations that not only dazzle but provoke thoughtful discourse and emotional resonance. Citywide Wonder: Installations dispersed across Cluj-Napoca and its environs, uniting celebrated landmarks with overlooked treasures in an exploratory odyssey. Unveiled Mysteries: Hidden surprises and exclusive novelties poised to unfold as the festival progresses. Since its inception in 2018, Lights On Romania has championed the transformative power of public art—a force that enlightens, educates, and weaves communities closer together. Through guided walking tours connecting these luminous masterpieces, attendees embark on a singular journey through creativity, urbanism, and collective humanity. As a seasoned Creative Alchemist, I find profound inspiration in festivals like Lights On Romania, which challenge our perspectives and illuminate the extraordinary in the everyday. The Mandala Social has over 25 years in the live events arena, we have borne witness to how these gatherings merge artistry and communal spirit to ignite unparalleled magic. Let us continue to brighten the world—one radiant moment at a time. 📅 Dates: November 23–December 8, 2024 📍 Location: Cluj-Napoca, Romania 🔗 Learn more: lightsonromania.com #LightsOnRomania #IlluminatedArt #AwarenessInFocus #ClujNapoca #PublicArtMovement #TheMandalaSocial #CommunityThroughArt #InteractiveInstallations

Illuminate Uppsala 2024: Be the Catalyst for Change From November 8th to 24th, Uppsala's cityscape will shimmer with extraordinary artistry during the much-anticipated Uppsala Light Festival: Allt ljus på Uppsala 2024. This enchanting celebration of light transforms the urban heart into a luminous tapestry of creativity and meaning, welcoming all to experience the city in an entirely novel dimension. Wander through captivating illuminations and evocative installations daily from 4 PM to 10 PM—a radiant symphony for the senses, entirely free of charge. ✯ The Festival Unveiled ✯ Since its inception in 2008, Allt ljus på Uppsala has evolved from a biennial gem into an annual beacon of Nordic ingenuity, bathing November’s chill in the warm glow of artistic expression. Spearheaded by Uppsala Municipality and Uppsala City, this luminous endeavour thrives through a coalition of visionary artists, venue hosts, strategic partners, and co-organisers. Destination Uppsala steers its project management and marketing, weaving innovation into every facet of this cherished tradition. Beyond the light installations, the festival brims with a mosaic of activities, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere that inspires curiosity and connection. Whether traversing its wonders alone or alongside loved ones, attendees are invited to rediscover Uppsala through the prism of light. 🌟 This Year’s Theme: "You Make the Difference" 2024’s festival embraces a compelling narrative—a call to action that beckons each individual to ponder their role in forging a sustainable tomorrow. Each installation embodies a unique perspective, offering moments of reflection and awakening. The luminous art becomes a dialogue—a shared language—inspiring visitors not just to observe but to participate in the collective journey toward a brighter, more conscious future. 👨👩👦 Gather and Revel This festival’s magic lies in its inclusivity. Whether exploring solo, with family, or in the company of friends and neighbours, the experience fosters a shared sense of wonder. From intricate sculptures casting ethereal shadows to profound messages embedded in beams of light, Allt ljus på Uppsala invites all to see the city anew. 📅 Essential Details Dates: November 8–24, 2024 Time: 4 PM–10 PM Location: Uppsala City Center Admission: Free 🌐 Discover More: Visit alltljuspauppsala.se/en for full details. You can unite under Uppsala’s glowing canopy to ignite meaningful conversations and foster change. Together, step by step, thought by thought, let’s illuminate not only our surroundings but also the path forward. See you in the light! 💡✨ #AlltLjusPåUppsala #UppsalaLightFestival #LightArt #SustainableFuture #TheMandalaSocial #DreamlikeJourneys #InclusiveArtistry #ImmersiveExpression

🏮 Celebrating 50 Years of Wonder at Lumières Sauvages Festival! 🏮 This year, the WILD LANTERNS FESTIVAL in Auvergne Rhône Alps is pulling out all the stops for an unforgettable experience. As part of the park’s 50th anniversary celebration, the fourth edition of Lumières Sauvages promises to be breathtaking. The festival takes visitors on a magical journey around the world, expanded this year to new territories, including stops in Peru, North America, Lapland, and Australia, alongside favorites like Africa, Asia, and Mongolia. It’s more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s an exploration of iconic animals from each of these regions. The Château itself is now part of the enchanting journey, with a captivating sound and light show projected onto its majestic facade by the talented team at Les Allumeurs de Rêve. Dive into the park’s rich history and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of seas and oceans with new illuminated marine life, plus a journey through prehistory with life-size dinosaurs. Get up close with life-sized wild animals like giraffes, elephants, and wolves, and explore a larger-than-life insect world made accessible to all. Overhead, gaze in awe at magnificent birds in flight. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience! The festival runs daily from October 19, 2024, to March 30, 2025, starting at 7:30 PM. Ready for the wildest lantern adventure? 🌍🐘🦜 #WildLanterns #LumièresSauvages #AuvergneRhôneAlps #FestivalOfLights #LightArt #ImmersiveFestival #Joy #FamilyAdventure #TheMandalaSocial 🏮🏮 https://lnkd.in/gWFZDm4a

Its humbling to be nominated from my peers for the Eventex International Event awards and also a great feeling. Every vote counts; 🗳️ Cast your vote now: https://lnkd.in/gn4NYqgJ 📅 Voting is open from October 14 to October 25, 2024.

At The Mandala Social, we are constantly inspired by the intersection of creativity, culture, and innovation. One incredible example that caught our attention is the artistic and engineering marvel of Japanese manhole covers. These once-utilitarian street elements have been transformed into vibrant works of art, reflecting local culture and history while serving a functional purpose. What’s even more fascinating is the engineering behind these covers. Designed with precision, many incorporate anti-slip surfaces, advanced drainage technology, and innovative materials that enhance durability. This perfect marriage of form and function highlights how even the most practical elements of our cities can become opportunities for creative expression and innovation. As a Creative Alchemist, I’ve spent over 25 years leading dynamic projects that showcase the best in creativity and design. Japanese manhole art serves as a powerful reminder that with the right vision, anything can be reimagined to engage communities, spark conversation, and bring beauty into everyday life. At The Mandala Social, we are passionate about applying similar principles to events, creating immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. Let’s continue to innovate and push boundaries, ensuring that creativity, critical thinking, and technology walk hand in hand. #CreativeAlchemy #UrbanArt #EngineeringInnovation #PublicArt #ManholeCovers #EventProduction #CulturalExpression #InnovationInDesign #TheMandalaSocial #CriticalThinking #CreativityAndInnovation #Inspiration

🌟 Discover the Istanbul Culture Road Festival: A Celebration of Art, Innovation, and Global Creativity 🎨✨ This year, the Istanbul Culture Road Festival marks its 13th stop as part of the Turkish Cultural Road Festival series, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 16 cities across Türkiye. Kicking off last weekend, the festival promises to elevate Türkiye’s brand value by blending history, art, and innovation across more than 100 venues and 500 events from the Anatolian side to the European side of Istanbul. Among many other innovative experiences, don’t miss “FRAGMENTS” by Visual Artist & Director Can Buyukberber This 8K circular LED installation, part of the “From Sketch to Pixel” Digital Art Exhibition at Galataport Istanbul, offers an unforgettable generative AI film experience, blending music and visuals in groundbreaking ways. Other Noteworthy highlights include: 🎨 “Pablo Picasso - A Journey from Painting to Ceramics” at Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), featuring 170 pieces, including Picasso’s original engravings, drawings, and lithographs, all certified by his heirs. 🎨 “Warhol’s World - The Icon of Pop Art” by Andy Warhol at AKM, running until Dec 31, which showcases the artist’s revolutionary vision. 🎨 “Leonardo Da Vinci - Renaissance Genius” at the Lale Museum, offering 230 pieces that provide a modern perspective on Da Vinci’s groundbreaking inventions. 📸 Sebastiao Salgado’s “Genesis” at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, displaying 245 stunning black-and-white photographs focused on the climate crisis. 🎨 Frida Kahlo’s Diaries at the Grand Pera Historical Building, presenting an intimate glimpse into Kahlo’s world, running until Oct 26. 🌍 Refik Anadol’s “Dreams of Earth: Anatolia” at AKM, using data-driven art to craft immersive experiences with pixel-based visuals. This is a must-visit festival for art lovers and creatives alike, where the convergence of past, present, and future is showcased in every corner of the city. 🗓️ Festival Dates: Sept 28 - Oct 29 📍 Location: Istanbul #IstanbulCultureRoad #ArtAndInnovation #Picasso #Warhol #FridaKahlo #SebastiaoSalgado #LeonardoDaVinci #RefikAnadol #DigitalArt #GenerativeAI #CulturalInnovation #ExploreIstanbul #TürkiyeKültürYolu #criticalthinking #creativityandimagination #themandalasocial

It’s truly exciting to see the vision for Sarab revealed to the world. A pavilion like no other, it brings together geometry and reflection, embodying both the idealism and unpredictability we find in life itself. At The The Mandala Social alongside Molten Immersive Art, we’re incredibly proud to have commissioned this stunning concept from Laboratory for Explorative Architecture & Design Ltd. for NOOR Riyadh 2022. Prefabricated and ready to travel, Sarab is a structure that adapts to its surroundings, reflecting, absorbing, and projecting its environment to offer visitors an immersive, ever-changing experience. While the design is ready, we eagerly await the right space to showcase its brilliance, where people can fully experience the intricate duality that Sarab represents. Once this incredible work finds its home, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on everyone who steps inside. #criticalthinking #creativityandinnovation #architecture #pavillions #worldexpo #design #lightart #lightfestival #leadarcitecture #eventspace

✨ As the nights get longer, the magic of light art festivals around the world is set to illuminate our cities and inspire our souls. ✨ 🗓️ Mark your calendars for these upcoming spectacular festivals: 🌟 Essen Light Festival, Germany: 2nd - 10th October Witness Essen transform into a canvas of color and creativity, where stunning light installations reimagine the urban landscape. 🔗 Essen Light Festival 🌟 Klanglicht Light Festival, Austria: 24th - 26th October Graz will shine bright with incredible projections, immersive light shows, and captivating soundscapes that push the boundaries of imagination. 🔗 Klanglicht Light Festival 🌟 Fjord Oslo Light Festival, Norway: 31st October - 3rd November Oslo's waterfront will come alive with mesmerizing installations by international artists, blending art and nature in an experience that can't be missed. 🔗 Fjord Oslo Light Festival 🌟 Amsterdam Light Festival, Netherlands: 28th November - 19th January The historic canals of Amsterdam will be illuminated by breathtaking light sculptures, showcasing the best of global creativity with art installations that reflect on the theme of connection. 🔗 Amsterdam Light Festival 🌟 Lumiere Durham, UK: 14th - 17th November This biannual event will once again transform Durham with installations from renowned artists, offering audiences a new way to explore and engage with the city's architecture. 🔗 Lumiere Durham 🌟 Illuminate Adelaide, Australia: 1st - 31st July (2024) Bringing together art, light, and technology, Illuminate Adelaide is set to light up the city with dazzling installations and immersive experiences, showcasing the forefront of digital creativity. 🔗 Illuminate Adelaide These festivals are more than just light—they are experiences that spark curiosity, bring communities together, and challenge our perception of space. They are a celebration of creativity and culture, something I hold dear as a Creative Alchemist and advocate for innovative and engaging events. 💡 Which of these light art festivals are you most excited to experience? #LightArtFestival #CreativityIlluminated #EssenLightFestival #Klanglicht #FjordOslo #AmsterdamLightFestival #LumiereDurham #IlluminateAdelaide #EventProduction #CreativeAlchemy #ImmersiveExperiences #CultureAndCommunity #themandalasocial

🎶 The Power of Rhythmic Entrainment and Sensory Engagement in Event Design 🎶 As a Senior Producer and Creative Alchemist with over 25 years in live events, I’ve seen how Rhythmic Entrainment—when people move, feel, and synchronise through rhythm—creates powerful connections. The scientific foundations of this are highlighted in studies like this one (https://lnkd.in/ePNqmj-J) neurobiological mechanisms, which shows how rhythm optimises motor and emotional responses. At The Mandala Social, we combine rhythmic entrainment and sensory engagement to curate immersive, multi-sensory experiences that foster deep emotional connections and lasting memories. Through rhythm, we tap into our innate ability to synchronise, creating shared, transformational moments. Here’s to building meaningful, multi-sensory connections—one beat and one sense at a time. 🎶✨ #TheMandalaSocial #RhythmicEntrainment #SensoryEngagement #EventDesign #CreativeAlchemy #LiveEvents #MusicConnects