We know we're supposed to be saving these for our book, but we felt this next one touched on such an important idea, that we couldn't wait to share it with you.
CF wrote:
I picked up an old copy of Ornament Magazine this week (2008, Vol 31 No. 4). There was a quote in one article that really struck me as being appropriate for anyone who tangles. The article was titled "Cari Borja: The Creative Habit" and this is the quote:
"When I was doing my Ph.D. research in Jamaica, an artist and teacher said to me, 'All these students, I don't know why they're thinking about becoming an artist because none of them have the habit of being creative.'"
Zentangle makes being creative so simple and so accessible to anyone who has the bug. So often we think of being creative as creating large pieces of art, but Zentangle art, creating small pieces finished in a short time, lets us practice being creative in spite of life's all-too-busy schedules. Zentangle was recommended to me as a way to get the creative juices flowing but I find it satisfying as an end in itself and a way to be creative as a habit. I'm totally hooked.
"A way to be creative as a habit." That is such an important concept. Creating a habit of creativity is a major part of Zentangle's magic. Thank you, CF, for putting those words to it!
And thank you to all who have sent and are continuing to send in your stories!
Speaking of creativity, Maria often talks about how she experiences her flow of creativity has increased since she began creating Zentangles. Here's one from yesterday with her comments.
(Rick adds: See those gray bands playing with those parallel pen lines? That's done with a very dull pencil.)
Our long busy day ended, bringing with it a warmish-coolish comforting breeze that begged to be appreciated, for soon it will be gone . . . replaced with New England's summer heat. I sat on our porch with just pen and paper (and pencil) to enjoy a delightful mix of tangle and spring air. After completing this tile (about 35 or so minutes) I began to "put the icing on" . . . my favorite part. I shaded it but still it wanted more. So I "rounded" the corners on some of its tangles and with that added bit of contrasting focused black, it was done!
Click image for larger view.
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9 comments:
Beautifully said (and illustrated!). Anyone can develop a habit. Being with the Zentangle process as a habit will definitely change things!
Before I saw Rick's note, I was looking at those gray bands and thinking that they give the tile the feel of the shadow of the trees or shrubs that surround your porch moving slightly in the breeze and making the tile come to life. Beautiful words and tile!
This peaceful Zentangle is an absolute delight Maria!
xi,
Heather
Creating a habit ~ creates change ~ both in the outer and the inner worlds ~ something bigger is going on here ~ as we create a Zentangle tile
My art teacher recommended this blog and I love it. Thanks for sharing. Love the comment from the reader.
QMM
And such a good habit to have!
I can see spring growth dancing and swaying, wonderful!
What a gorgeous tile! I love the added sepia color and the fact that you went right to the edges. I think this photo is going to stay on my computer screen today as an inspiration when I tangle.
Your tangles are always so beautifull!
This makes me feel, peaceful, happy and warm all over. It is just lovely and the sepia takes it to even another place. Maria, thank you so much for sharing your gift with us. Namaste,
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