ZENTANGLE

Theory of Zentangle Zentangle is simple to understand and easy to enjoy — even if you are convinced you are not an artist. With Zentangle, you can always explore new areas of experience and insight. Here are some theories which explain why Zentangle is not only easy and enjoyable, but also profound and uplifting.

You Can Do Anything, One Stroke at a Time™ At first glance, a Zentangle can seem intricate and complicated. But, when you see how it is done, you realize how simple it is. When you create a Zentangle, you realize how fun and engrossing it is. We love presenting to a class or seminar full of people who are convinced they could never draw a Zentangle. Then, within 15 minutes, they have easily accomplished what they thought impossible. This is one of our favorite Zentangle metaphors. You can transfer that insight and experience of success and accomplishment to any life experience. Something may look complicated, but you know you can do it one simple stroke at a time.

Deliberate Stroke In Zentangle, you draw each stroke consciously and deliberately. We are always making "strokes" (thoughts, words, deeds) in our life. By taking Zentangle's inspiration to make each stroke deliberate, you understand how those apparently small and insignificant "strokes" of our moment to moment lives contribute to your life's pattern. Deliberate Focus Just as you make a deliberate pen stroke on your Zentangle, that very act of putting your pen to paper focuses your attention in a way similar to meditation or being "in the zone." As your eye follows your pen strokes your attention shifts to a state that allows fresh thoughts, new perspectives, and creative insights to flow unhindered by anxiety or effort.

No Eraser There is no eraser in life and there is no eraser in Zentangle. However, in Zentangle (and in life), you discover that even if you make what seems to be a mistake, you can then build on that event as a new pattern and go in unexpected and exciting new directions. Unknown Outcomes Unlike most art, or most activities, you start out intentionally not knowing what your Zentangle will look like. Zentangle takes brainstorming to a new level with its metaphor of "not knowing" and by not planning ahead for an intended outcome. This method supports and inspires participants to build and expand on each new idea unhindered and unconstrained by limiting preconceptions.