Zentangles


 * Zentangle(TM) **

Zentangle is an easy to learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. It is a fascinating new art form that is fun and relaxing. It increases focus and creativity. Zentangle provides artistic satisfaction and an increased sense of personal well being. Zentangle is enjoyed by a wide range of skills and ages and is used in many fields of interest. We believe that life is an art form and that Zentangle is an elegant metaphor for deliberate artistry in life.
 * What is it? **



**Characteristics of Zentangle and Zentangle in the class room** **Intuitive Artform** With Zentangle, anyone can create beautiful images from repetitive patterns. This method is easy to learn and easy to do. And even though it is a specified series of steps, it results in a creative expression that transcends its own rules.

**Fun and Relaxing** Zentangle provides a fun and lighthearted way to relax and intentionally facilitate a shift in focus and perspective. Zentangle is unencumbered by dogma and cost which can weigh on other approaches. Nevertheless, Zentangle is sufficiently structured and organized so you can enjoy and benefit from an activity that otherwise might be considered whimsical.

**Abstract** You cannot fail to create a Zentangle. That is because a Zentangle is meant to look like a Zentangle. It does not need to look like anything else and has no up or down. **Unexpected Results** Zentangle is an unusual approach to art because you have no idea what its result will be when you begin. Your creation is not restricted by your expectations. **Timeless** Creating designs, manipulating symbols and putting pen to paper is part of our human heritage. In a time of keyboards, computer mice, and cell phones, Zentangle allows a return to a comfort and familiarity of timeless, basic creativity.


 * Materials and Equipment:**

- Zentangle paper (3.5” x3.5”), ATC’s(2.5” x3.5”), various other sizes of heavy-weight paper or watercolor paper - Pencil, eraser - Black, fine-tipped marker (sharpie or similar) - Other materials depending on variation of assignments (white pencil, watercolor, colored pencils, colored markers) - A variety of patterns as reference


 * Art Production, Comments, Sequence:**
 * 1-** **Dots-** using your pencil, make a dot in each corner of the tile. Connect the dots to form a border.
 * 2-** **String-** draw a string (a guideline drawn in pencil)
 * 3-** **Tangles-** Switch to your pen and fill each section with Tangles (patterns taken from fashion, art, nature, observation, history….anywhere)
 * 4-** **Shading-** use your pencil to add shading and depth.
 * 5-** **Initial-** As the final step, put your initials on the front of the tile, and sign and date the back---there is no top or bottom to a Zentangle, so the initials can go anywhere

Examples for patterns: (you can also use the following link [|for more ideas].)