I am excited to present the "Mandala Series" which, upon completion, will total seven quilts.

"Mandala" is a Sanskrit word meaning "circle." Although employed in Hindu and Buddhist religious tradition, Mandalas appear in many different cultures and spiritual practices.

My representation of this ancient art form combines spiritual and religious symbolism from Adinkra, Asian, Hindu, Christian and Egyptian traditions and cultures. I kept to the circle form in each piece, and in many instances combined different religious and spiritual motifs in a single piece.They are all hand appliquéd, quilted and embellished, and it is my hope that they bring you the kind of pleasure that I experienced while creating them. There will be a total of seven Mandalas when the series is completed.

I was commissioned to design a piece to be presented to one of my heroines of all time – Rev. Dr. Iyanla Vanzant. She is a brilliant, wise and spiritual woman who has authored several best-selling books, and who speaks all over the globe, bringing enlightenment and solid practical life lessons to all who are lucky enough to hear her.

The piece is titled "Yemoja's Repose" and depicts the Yoruban Goddess Yemaya who is considered to be a mother to all as she rules over the seas where all life springs from. The piece reflects the symbols associated with Yemaya, namely the ocean, and the crescent moon. The seven stars she is gazing upon reflect the seven seas over which she rules. Strong, protective and nurturing Yemaya is an African Goddess who has been embraced by numerous cultures throughout the world.

Also making their debuts are three more landscape pieces. Located in the Leaf and Petal page is "Blue Moon" while "Midnight Water", and "Topography Squared" are found in the Vistas section. "Arabic Lattice" can be found in the Bits and Pieces section of the Gallery. "Jewel Meditation" makes an appearance in the Studies and Explorations section.

Please check out the Gallery for all of the new additions.

Also, I launched a blog this summer – nadinemcuffy.wordpress.com. It's a place to meditate, deliberate and inspire. With my tongue firmly planted in my cheek, I cover a variety of topics, and hope that you join me there.

Yes, indeed... I've been busy!