A new addiction!

Now, before you panic, this isn't a blog post about illegal substances. I have found a new art form that I'm completely addicted to. I have a somewhat addictive personality, i'll admit. I do tend to get a little obsessive about things in short (and sometimes longer) bursts. But the reason behind this one is a little different...

I have discovered Zentangle!

Just a couple of my own designs

Zentangle was created Maria Thomas, a lettering artist and Rick Roberts, who lived as monk for 17 years. It's an incredibly focused technique that creates a "string" and then fills in the spaces that the string creates with patterns or "tangles". All that is required is good cardstock, a fine black pen and a pencil. That's all.

The premise behind this art form is very much about process. To be a true Zentangle, the drawing must be done on a 3 1/2 inch square and that's one of the beauties of this kind of drawing. it is small and portable. Its easy to see results in a fairly short space of time. 

This one was done on my train journey to Birmingham, slightly frustrating trying to deal with the movement.

But the most profound thing i have discovered is what it does to my brain while I'm doing it. I frequently become quite lost in thought when I'm painting or creating but not like this. It is so absorbing that everything else just fades away. I feel calmer (and life has been pretty darn intense recently) and I have been sleeping better too.

Feeling so quiet in my head is such a lovely feeling, when we're so enveloped in a world of sound. I often get quite cross with myself for wasting evenings when i could have been creating in my studio space but sometimes starting a big project is just too overwhelming when I'm tired. So achieving just this small thing in an evening is very satisfying.

And the best thing...anyone can learn it. Sure, it will take a bit of practice, and starting simply is key. But i picked up a book with lots of instructions on how to get started and a directory of official "Tangles" for under £5. Also Rick and Maria have an official blog with lots of inspiration and suggestions, you can find it here. 

This art form, of course, is not limited. "Zentangle Inspired Art" pushes the boundaries out further, and led to an explosion of animals and objects all illustrated with beautiful tangles. Pinterest has a wealth of inspiration and instructions with step by step guides, so it's really hard to run dry on ideas.

Tapping into creativity is being recognised more and more as a vital part of our overall well-being and mental health but sometimes knowing how and where to start with that is hugely daunting. I would suggest for anyone who doesn't know where to start...this is perfect! So, if you're looking for a creative outlet, a new hobby or perhaps you struggle to switch off before bed and suffer with insomnia...I would really encourage you to give this a go, not only will you create something amazing but the other benefits will be fabulous.

Happy drawing x