Zentangle™
is a method of drawing
patterns to create beautiful images.
It is the process of
simple lines, drawn repetitively,
one stroke at a time,
without a planned outcome,
without expectations,
quietly enjoying the pen marking the paper
mindfully focusing on just that action.
It can be done anywhere, anytime by anyone.
It only requires a pen, pencil and paper.
If you can write your name than you can tangle!
I was certified to teach the Zentangle Method by the Founders Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas in Rhode Island, USA in 2013. At the time I saw Zentangle as another tool in my tool box of art supplies. I did not expect the wonderful world of patterns, the enthusiastic and supportive tangle community or the opportunities to teach this method to be as fulfilling both creatively and personally as it has been.
Tangling become an art practice that allowed me to create everyday in small bursts in between raising a family and working fulltime. These little squares of paper brought me joy and allowed my imagination the freedom to create. The practice of tangling also led to other creative ideas and the confidence to pursue them in new ways, which included publications, stationery, accessories, commissions and gallery exhibits.
In 2017 I suffered a brain injury and through the months of recovery working with a neurologist and occupational therapist, I came to understand the therapeutic benefits of Zentangle. I couldn’t read due to the injury but I could fill a blank page with intricate images. My tangle practice became more important than ever as I discovered that this mindful focus would calm my brain, soothe visual and auditory over stimulation, and ease my emotional fluctuations. My therapists noticed a positive difference in the days that included Zentangle and encouraged it.
There are currently studies being done on the positive and therapeutic effects that Zentangle provides. I will link to them here when they are published.
Since 2013 I have taught over 4000 participants the method of Zentangle. From ages 7-92, from elementary to high school, seniors centres to corporate retreats, wellness programs to private curated events and summer art camps. I have had the honour of seeing the “aha” moment in those that were convinced they could not draw, to seeing a 9 time stroke patient exclaiming in tears “this feels like I’m normal again” to receiving a letter from the daughter of an 86yr old man with tremors saying that when he tangles his hand doesn’t shake and she was going to bring it the attention of his doctor’s, to the youngest students getting excited about spotting patterns around the room and wondering if they could name them.
Teaching Zentangle has brought me much joy and connection with people from all walks of life in all kinds of situations. It truly is an art form that enables anyone to create without barriers.
I would love to introduce you to the method and put together a lesson for you, your workplace, or a private event. Please get in touch or checkout my
workshop pagefor upcoming live and recorded sessions.
Looking forward to tangling with you!
Yvonne
