the story behind the name 'calcolo'
INTENTION...
SET IN STONE
Welcome to Calcolo Art, a place where art and intention come together to create meaningful, handcrafted mandalas.
Lisa Close, the artist & founder behind Calcolo Art, is passionate about creating intricate, hand-painted mandalas that bring a sense of calm, peace, and inspiration. Her work is rooted in mindfulness and self-expression, with each piece designed to serve as a reminder to pause, breathe, and set an intention. Through her creative journey, Lisa has discovered the transformative power of art, and she hopes to share that experience with others.
Meet the Artist
Lisa Close is a photographer at heart and a passionate creator in her soul. Her official artistic journey began carrying her Dad's Brownie camera when she was 3yrs old. After studying photography and graphic design in college she was then led to explore abstract expressionism, mandala painting, and the transformative power of intentional art. As an award-winning photographer recognized by Photographer's Forum, her love for capturing beauty has evolved into a deep appreciation for painting intricate mandalas—each piece carrying its own energy and purpose.
Born and raised in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Lisa now calls Colorado Springs, CO home. Living in the mountains was a lifelong dream—one that once felt far-fetched but became her reality through determination and passion. For nearly 12 years, she has been surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that continue to inspire her creativity every day. Lisa shares her life with her husband, Gary, and their golden retriever, Monte, cherishing the magic of their home and the artistic inspiration it provides.
The Meaning Behind Calcolo
Lisa’s father was 95% Italian and 5% Egyptian. To honor her heritage, she chose an Italian word to represent her business. Calcolo means "stone"—a perfect reflection of her artistic journey, where each hand-painted mandala becomes a vessel of mindfulness, balance, and beauty.
The Heart of Her Work
At Calcolo Art, Lisa’s mission is to create artwork that resonates on a deeper level. Mandalas have been used for centuries as tools for meditation, healing, and self-discovery. Their intricate patterns and rhythmic designs help bring focus, clarity, and serenity to those who engage with them.
With every dot and every brushstroke, Lisa sets an intention—whether it’s for calmness, balance, gratitude, or transformation. Her hope is that when someone finds a piece that speaks to them, it becomes a meaningful part of their own journey.
More Than Art – A Connection to Intention
In a world that moves fast, Lisa’s art serves as a reminder to pause, breathe, and set an intention. Whether drawn to mandalas for their meditative quality, their symbolism, or their aesthetic beauty, visitors are invited to explore the collection and find a piece that resonates with them.
Thank you for being here and for supporting handcrafted, intentional art. Lisa is honored to share her work with you.
