Analisa Bevan, Certified Zentangle Teacher
The Zentangle® method of drawing is a mindful art practice. The Zentangle method, created by Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts, uses simple, structured patterns that are easy to learn to create beautiful drawings. These patterns are called Tangles. This non-representational art form generates deep focus and relaxation. Ideal for “artists” and “non-artists”, Zentangle art is surprisingly satisfying given its simplicity.
The Zentangle method of drawing (or doodling) is organized to be simple to learn, easy to access with the only required supplies being a pen and paper. Being non-representational there are no expectations for what the finished product should look like, freeing the artist from judgement about “getting it to look right”. And while the Zentangle method lays out a process and provides guidance with a library of predefined patterns, it doesn’t have rules that must be followed, allowing for endless creativity. A traditional Zentangle tile is a 3 ½ inch by 3 ½ inch cardstock with a variety of tangles drawn in black ink with graphite pencil shading.
The Zentangle class being offered at PTDW starting this fall will be an 8-week exploration of the Zentangle method. Each week the class will learn several new patterns, practice making Zentangle art, expand to techniques using color, shading and highlighting. We’ll explore tangling on traditional tiles, round “Zendalas” and finally tangle the world with a student choice of media.