Clay Díps

One of the ongoing art projects for the 50th Celebration is working with clay – a medium that is very alive and responsive to touch. Here is a project that anyone can do. During the Festival of Light festivities, a group created díps for our New Year’s Eve celebrations! Díp is Sanskrit for any container that holds the sacred flame on the altar.

One of the ongoing art projects for the 50th Celebration is working with clay – a medium that is very alive and responsive to touch. Here is a project that anyone can do. During the Festival of Light festivities, a group created díps for our New Year’s Eve celebrations! Díp is Sanskrit for any container that holds the sacred flame on the altar.

Directions

For the clay bowl:

  • Take a small ball of clay (about 2 inches in diameter), blindfold yourself and repeat the Divine Light Mantra or a mantra that you love.  Take 5 minutes and let the clay speak to you.  See what it presents you with.
  • Now you can take another ball of the same size and press it against your elbow (this is an ancient Japanese way of making tea bowls).  Begin to work the bowl shape with your fingers and thumbs, turning it until the bowl emerges.
  • Dry both pieces in a very low oven overnight.

For the candle insert:

  • Melt wax:  soy wax or bees wax is sustainable; paraffin is OK too.  Pour into bowls (or díps) and when it begins to firm up insert a wick (you can buy small ones at a candle store, or make one from string).
  • When the wax hardens, place it on your alter and offer the light to your practice.

Note:  Use caution with the bowls – since they are not fired the bowls are fragile, especially if bumped or banged.

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