Sand Mandala Dissolution Ceremony

From Tuesday, September 30, to Saturday, October 4, the monks of Gyuto Wheel of Dharma Monastery will assemble a sand mandala depicting Avalokiteśvara, the Buddha of Compassion, in Groot Gallery. At the conclusion of the sand mandala’s creation, all are invited to a dissolution ceremony and procession to the Cannon River. Guests are invited to gather in Groot Gallery at 2 p.m. then join the monks of Gyuto Wheel of Dharma Monastery for a 2-mile walk to Bridge Square to disperse the sand in the Cannon River.

The walk length is two miles. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather. No transportation will be provided, and the walk is one-way, with attendees responsible for arranging their own return to campus after the ceremony.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTE: The walking route from St. Olaf College to downtown Northfield is designed to be accessible and inclusive, but involves steep downhill inclines. Visitors wishing to drive and meet at Bridge Square are welcome to do so. The walking distance is approximately two miles. The path utilizes city sidewalks, crosswalks, designated pedestrian routes, and intersections with curb ramps to ensure safe and accessible travel.

This event is presented in conjunction with the Flaten Art Museum’s fall exhibition Gateway to Himalayan Art, on view September 12 – December 7, 2025.