North Clairemont Library starts their Zentangle journey

Lucky me, today I shared Zentangle Method at a new location, North Clairemont Library in Clairemont, San Diego, CA.  Sixteen eager to learn folks, including Arianne, branch Manger, enjoyed the magic of finding out what Zentangle is all about.

By the way, where did the name Zentangle come from?  The co-founders, Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas design the art method for those that were intimidated by art. Rick was a Monk in India for 14 years (hence the Zen part of the title).  Marie is an illustrator/calligrapher (hence the tangle - pattern part of the title).   They created a method of designing beautiful, intricate pieces of art by drawing structured patterns in an abstract form that easy-to-do, even children can complete.  During the process you relax and get into a state of well-being - healing art.

Some folks might call it glorified doodling if they have not had a class from a Certified Zentangle Teacher.  There is a method with the process that is unique to any other art form.  Doodling is usually mindless.  Zentangle is mindful.  When you put pen to paper, you get out of your head (thoughts) and focus on drawing the structured patterns. They look intricate and complicated, yet easy to do with step-outs for each pattern.

Today's class was Introduction to Zentangle Method.  After teaching classes since June 2014 and over 8,500 students, I'm still surprised maybe one or two students at each class have heard of Zentangle but not sure what it is.  I LOVE sharing the secret gem.

I call Introduction to Zentangle - kindergarten.  Learning the basic method and all the other classes are more detailed.  

After learning four basic patterns (tangles) we applied those patterns to a fun project - Mr. Tortoise.  

After class, it is always fun to look how different everyone's art is with the same instruction.  

Next time... bring your husbands/boyfriends.  Men love Zentangle too.
                                                  

If you haven't visited your local library lately, don't walk, run to your nearest one.  The libraries have so much to offer the public these days and without a fee.  Below is example of music being played at N. Clairemont Library.  Another example is my classes are usually $35 per person, and the Friends of the Library and City, make it possible for me to share this art method for those that maybe couldn't afford classes.  Thank you Friends of the Library.  Support the library and purchase their books on sales - they are usually only $1.