Zentangle

A Zentangle is an abstract drawing created using repetitive patterns according to the trademarked Zentangle Method. True Zentangles are always created on 3.5 inch (8.9 cm) square tiles, and they are always done in black ink on white paper. The invention of the Zentangle was intended to make the act of drawing pleasurable, meditative and accessible to all. 

1

Learn the basic definition of a Zentangle. A Zentangle is an abstract, patterned drawing created according to the tenets of the Zentangle Method. Using the standard format of a 3.5-inch square title, the artist creates a structured pattern according to his or her whim following a basic set of guidelines. No technology, special materials, or educational background are necessary to become a Zentangle artist. Here are a few characteristics of a Zentangle:

  • The tile should not have an "up" or a "down" - it is without orientation.
  • It should not be representative of any certain recognizable object; rather, it should be abstract.
  • The drawing should be completed in black ink on white paper.
  • A Zentangle is meant to be portable, so that it can be created at any time the mood strikes.

2

See how Zentangle is different from other art. The Zentangle Method is very different from regular drawing, painting and other art forms. It is meant to be a form of artistic meditation that anyone can do. The act of creating the Zentangle is just as important as the final outcome, which is appreciated for its unique beauty. Zentangle creations adhere to the following philosophical tenets:

  • Its creation is unplanned. When you begin creating a Zentangle, you're encouraged not to have an end goal in mind. Rather, allow the pattern to reveal itself as you draw.
  • Its creation of a Zentangle is deliberate, yet unexpected. Each stroke should be made deliberately, rather than hesitantly. Instead of erasing stray marks, the artist should use them as the foundation for an unexpected pattern.
  • Its creation is celebratory. Like meditation, the Zentangle Method is meant to feel freeing and healing. It's a way to celebrate the beauty of life.
  • A Zentangle is timeless. No technology or special tools are used. Zentangles should connect those who make them to the timeless human endeavor of putting pen to paper.

3

Understand the difference between a Zentangle and a doodle. Many people create doodles - sometimes beautiful ones - in the margins of notebooks and on scrap paper. Doodles are usually created during times when the person making them is having trouble paying attention to something else that's going on, like a lecture or a phone call. Though the best doodles can look similar to Zentangles, they're actually very different. Here's how:

  • The Zentangle Method requires utmost focus. Unlike doodling, the person creating a Zentangle is giving it his or her full, undivided attention. A Zentangle cannot be created while on the phone or listening to a lecture, because focus is an inherent part of this art form.
  • The Zentangle Method is a ceremony. Since a Zentangle deserves the artist's utmost attention. It should be create in a quiet place where focus and reverence can be achieved. The paper and pens used should be of highest quality, since a Zentangle is a work of art that can be enjoyed for a long time to come.

4

Learn about the founding artists. The Zentangle Method was invented by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, when they discovered that the act of drawing abstract patterns with the constraint of a few basic rules was extremely meditative.

  • In order to teach the Zentangle Method, one must be certified as a Zentangle Teacher.
  • There are over one hundred official Zentangles. If you want to recreate one of the originals, there are tutorials online and books and kits available for purchase. Works that are reminiscent of Zentangles but don't adhere to the official guidelines are referred to as Zentangle-inspired creations.

to learn how to create your own Zentanglement : go the the part 2 which you can read here : http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Zentangle

Also below are other great sites to inspire you to make your own meditative beauty

zentangle.com

pinterest.com

youtube.com

 

and here is a website with patterns to start your creative juices : anglepatterns.com/zentangles

 

I hope this brings serenity to some.

 

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