Zentangle is the new trick to keep calm

This meditative art form enables one to stay relaxed and create beautiful abstract art through structured patterns

Move over mandala. The latest therapy art form making the rounds is zentangle. Essentially a zen practice, this doodling technique comprises strings and circles that allow the practitioner to enter into a meditative state while making beautiful patterns through repetitive strokes. Meanwhile, many people who are struggling to break free from their sedentary lifestyle are also taking interest in zendala — a hybrid art-making process that blends the traits of mandala with that of zentangle.

Zentangle artist and certified teacher Neha Agrawal says, “Zentangle and zendala are meditative art forms that use pen and paper as medium. These are stress-busting practices that help people to relax their mind and, thus, in turn, improve their concentration power as well as help in anger management. Zentangle is more about enjoying the process, rather than bothering about the final product. For me, it is a means to escape time and space and enter a zone where only positive energy remains.” A former IT professional, Neha works with art lovers from different age groups, including schoolchildren and corporate executives.


In her recent exhibition, she collaborated with another artist Reshma Venkatraman, who specialises in storytelling through paintings — dabbling in oil, watercolour, acrylic, pencil and charcoal. In their joint venture, they have merged watercolour and zentangle on one canvas. “Even though these are two completely different mediums, neither of it actually stands out in the paintings nor do they look disconnected. Instead, they depict a sense of reflection and togetherness from within,” Neha explains. Adding to this, Reshma says, “The human portraits done using these two techniques aim at portraying two facets of a personality — one which is meant for people to see and the other for oneself. But eventually both merge from within.”


Artwork that merges zentangle with watercolours

TOOLS AND STEPS TO DRAW A ZENTANGLE DRAWING

q To get started with a zentangle drawing, all you need is a zentangle tile or paper, a pen or pencil and blending stumps for shading.

q Begin with defining the space for the drawing on the tile/paper, and then divide it into sub-sections.

q At this stage, a certified zentangle teacher can help you to learn different patterns, which can be filled in with a pen/pencil.

q Shading comprises the final stage of the drawing.

DIFFERENT FORMS OF ZENTANGLE

Zentangle is usually abstract. But if a definite theme is being followed in the drawing (that is, a left or right direction is maintained), it is called zia — a zentangle-inspired art. When the drawing is done in a circular pattern, it is called a zendala. This form is similar to mandala or chakras.

BENEFITS OF THE ART FORM

Reduces stress, enables one to relax and enjoy being creative Sharpens focus and enhances meticulousness Improves awareness and enables fresh perspectives towards self and life Supports therapy to manage anxiety Reduces the fear of flying, Helps tackle insomnia, anger, attention deficit and even autism