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Zentangle: An Art Form ANYONE Can Do

Colorful Zentangle drawings of sunflowers with vibrant colors and intricate patterns and giraffes done in pencil filled with geometric designs.

JEROMESVILLE, Ohio
by Mr. Jerry Hohler
Grades 5-12 Art Teacher

For the past 5 to 6 years, I have been introducing the art form known as "Zentangle" to students at Hillsdale.

This approach to drawing is simple and follows the idea that ANYONE can draw. It breaks down the process into easy concepts of lines, shapes, and designs, emphasizing repetition and spontaneity.

The term "Zen," derived from Eastern philosophy, means "peaceful" and "balanced." In contrast, "Tangle" refers to something "complicated," "twisted," or "confusing." Together, these words create an oxymoron, suggesting that

As artists, we can create something beautiful from elements that may seem random or chaotic.

Zentangle Art Classes

This year, the Zentangle drawings displayed on the walls come from two classes: the 7th graders and the 9-12 Drawing class. Each class has its unique approach and level of involvement.

7th Graders: Geoffrey the Giraffe

The 7th graders choose a subject for their Zentangle art each year, and this year they selected Geoffrey the giraffe. Over the course of nine weeks, we spend about two weeks drawing the giraffe, focusing on one small section at a time. As we add lines, designs, patterns, and shapes, I draw alongside them using an overhead camera and widescreen TV to demonstrate. I make the experience enjoyable by comparing our shapes and patterns to everyday items, like "Doritos" or "cinnamon buns."

"Geoffrey the Giraffe" -- 7th Grade Gallery, 1st 9 Weeks

A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A detailed Zentangle drawing of a giraffe, with its body divided into sections filled with a variety of geometric patterns and shapes.
A sign: %22Zentangle Patterns Guided Drawings of 'Geoffrey' by 7th-Grade Artists with examples of zentangles

9-12 Drawing Class: Sunflowers

In the 9-12 Drawing class, students also select a design to work on, and this year they chose sunflowers Their approach is similar to the 7th graders, but they take it a step further. They fill the entire paper with Zentangle, leaving no spaces empty. Additionally, the high schoolers enhance their drawings with color, carefully filling in every detail with their spontaneously chosen colors. The results are often breathtaking and impressive.

Sunflowers -- 9-12 Drawing Class Gallery

A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A colorful Zentangle drawing of a sunflower, featuring intricate patterns and designs filling every section of the petals and background.
A sign: %22Zentangle Patterns: 'Sunflowers' by the 9-12 Drawing Class%22 with examples of zentangles.

The key takeaway from these Zentangle projects is that students learn that drawing does not have to be a stressful activity that relies on talent or ability to achieve satisfying results. It can be fun, spontaneous, and detailed, regardless of one’s skill level.

While I initially guide them, students can then take this method further and explore drawing independently. I see myself as their "driver's ed instructor," helping them learn to navigate drawing. Now that they know how to do it, they have the freedom to experiment on their own.

In summary, Zentangle art provides a fun, easy, and relaxing way for students of all abilities to engage in drawing without the fear of not being able to draw well.

By breaking the process into simple steps of lines, designs, and patterns, anyone can create impressive drawings using Zentangle principles.

 

Definition of Zentangle

Zen: Represents balance, peace, and calm.
Tangle: Refers to something complicated, twisted, or confusing.

Inclusivity in Zentangle

Anyone can create Zentangles, regardless of their skill level.

Elements of Zentangle

  • Utilizes patterns, shapes, repetition, and imagination.
  • Encourages personal choices, experimentation, and free-form ideas.

Creative Expression

Zentangle art allows individuals to create amazing images, irrespective of their ability, training, or art knowledge.

Coloring in Zentangle

  • Coloring is optional but can enhance the artwork.
  • Like drawing, adding colors can be spontaneous and experimental, requiring little planning.

Benefits of Zentangle

  • Zentangle art is a fun, easy, and relaxing way for students of all abilities to engage in drawing without the fear of not being able to draw well.
  • By breaking the process into simple steps of lines, designs, and patterns, anyone can produce impressive drawings using Zentangle principles.