Middle School Art

 The Zentangle Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns.  Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases focus and creativity, provides artistic satisfaction. The Zentangle Method is enjoyed all over this world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages.

 With the Zentangle Method, anyone can create beautiful images from repetitive patterns. It 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 goes beyond its own rules.

 Creating Zentangle art provides a fun and lighthearted way to relax and shift in focus and perspective. Nevertheless, it is quite structured and organized so you can enjoy and benefit from an activity.

 With our Zentangle Method we encourage you to not have a set idea of your final result. Following this somewhat unusual approach, your creation is not restricted by your expectations.

 Repetitive, simple steps are part of the Zentangle Method. These steps support relaxation, focus and inspiration. It can be a wonderful daily ritual.

 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, the simple strokes that are part of the Zentangle Method automatically engage you in timeless, basic creativity.

 Everything you need to create beautiful Zentangle art can fit in your pocket. This easy to learn method of relaxed focus can be done almost anywhere, alone or in groups, without any special abilities or costly equipment.

 By using a quality paper, pens and pencils you can ensure your Zentangle creations will be a respected and treasured work of art. Unlike other methods of relaxation and focus, you not only feel good, you get a side effect of beautiful art to be appreciated and collected for years to come.

 Zentangle is not limited by technology. Your creativity is not directed by how someone else’s standards, nor does it need batteries or electricity. Your creativity is your only limit. The Zentangle method has a way of increasing and inspiring expression of your personal creativity.

 It is an empowering and uplifting experience to learn that you can deliberately relax and intentionally direct your attention while creating beautiful works of art.

 Relaxation  Insomnia (creating Zentangle art before bedtime)  Self-esteem  Inspiration  Panic attacks (For fear of flying, during takeoff and landing)  Create beautiful works of art  Nurture and develop creative abilities  Relieve stress  Improve eye/hand coordination  Develop/rehabilitate fine motor skills  Therapy  Anger management  Early artist development and appreciation  Increase attention span and ability to concentrate  Brainstorming  Problem Solving  Stretching and warm-up for artists  Mindfulness

One day, Maria told Rick what she experienced as she drew background patterns on a manuscript she was creating. She described her feelings of timelessness, freedom and well-being and complete focus on what she was doing with no thought or worry about anything else. "You're describing meditation," Rick said. Rick and Maria wondered if they could create a simple system so others might enjoy a similar experience. And so began the journey towards discovering this simple and elegant system called the Zentangle Method. Little did they know then that it would grow this quickly and touch as many lives in as many ways as it has.

 There are so many! There are so many!

 For today’s lesson you will be given a Zentangle template. Your job is to fill the entire shape up with as many patterns as you can think of. You may want to use the Zentangle patterns handout for inspiration but should not feel limited to those patterns alone!  Good Luck and Happy Tangling!