The Zentangle Method is a super easy-to-learn and enjoyable way to create gorgeous pictures while relaxing the mind and body.
With all of the homework, meetings and mind-boggling scheduling college students have, it is always comforting when one can find time to sit back and take a breather. Even with a break, students sometimes want something to do that will momentarily distract them from all of their obligations.
Zentangle is a strategic way of drawing lines and shapes, typically with black ink on a white paper background. It was invented by Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts in 2007 but has become much more popular in the recent years. Sometimes people are doing Zentangle without even knowing.
It starts with the drawing of a light square border around the edge of the paper. The border does not have to be a straight line. It can be uneven, wavy or even zig-zag shaped.
For beginners who seem to get stumped with starting a Zentangle, the founders of the art recommend beginning with a “string” line. This line can also be straight, curvy, looped, or wavy. It all depends on the artist and gives students a sense of freedom.
It will be the base for the design and will give it some structure. The line should not be drawn too hard because it will not be seen when the design is complete.
After the string is created, the next part is the “tangle.” A tangle is a pattern to be drawn along the edges of the string. A Zentangle can have one single tangle on a string or a mix of different tangles. Tangles should be made from simple shapes like dots, circles, or different shaped lines.
At the end, the final Zentangle design will be a combination of various strings and tangles. This art technique is unique because it allows for mistakes. In fact, the creators recommend artists to use mistakes as new strings or tangles instead of erasing them.
The creators also recommend adding shading or color, but only if desired.
Aside from leisure use, Zentangle has also been used as an addiction therapy tool, anger management tool, and an aide for those on diets. No matter what the use, Zentangle has proven to be successful at being inspirational, relaxing and a great way to expand the imagination. To get more information about the Zentangle method, including art kits and ideas, visit Zentangle.com.
