The painting will consist of millions of particles of colored sand carefully laid into place to complete the spiritual work.

The mandala sand painting begins with an opening ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m., Monday, during which the lamas consecrate the site and call forth the forces of goodness. This is done by means of chanting, music and mantra recitation.

A lecture about the symbolism of the sane mandala follows at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union Great Room.

Traditionally most sand mandalas are destroyed shortly after their completion as a metaphor for the impermanence of life.

The closing ceremony is scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday.

For more information, and a full list of events visit www.ndsu.edu/campusattractions.