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Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Time

"Time is an illusion."
          – Albert Einstein 


I used to think it was a real kick in the pants that time we spend enjoying life seems to go five times faster than time it takes to do the stuff we don't like so much.

Years ago I tried to fix this (because I always thought it was my duty to fix whatever needed fixing).


Like, doing dishes. I used to really dislike doing dishes. (I don't want to use that word hate, just 'cause I "hate" that word. :-) So to prove to my kids that most things could be made better I decided I would from then on "like" to do the dishes. Every time I had to do them, I would think of all the reasons in the world why I liked to do dishes, or why I would rather be doing dishes. It became a game I played in my mind to come up with reasons why:
  • "I am so lucky to have dishes to do!"
  • "Can you believe we have hot water anytime we want?" 
  • "It makes my hands nice and warm on a cold day." 
  • and on and on with statements to this effect. 
Then I started saying these things out loud to whomever was around:
  • "Let me do that, I LOVE to do dishes!" 
  • "You guys sit down, I do this better all alone." 
  • "This is a one-person kitchen . . . I love to do this." 

It didn't really take long for it to work. Within a short period of time, I actually did like this repetitive task. Really. Still do.

Now that I have said this, I know that doing dishes is not the same as pain, caring for a loved one who is not doing so well, sleeplessness, addictions, fears, etc.

The LONG hours spent doing some things such as these . . . maybe we can play a trick on ourselves and reverse the long and short of it. I think that is one way Zentangle can get us through some difficult times. It can change long hours to short hours. 


You also get a bonus of feeling good about yourself for that period of time as you produce art you can admire, share, or give away. How cool is that?


These are a few Zentangle tiles I created during my usual middle of the night awakenings.

. . . maria
P.S.
I'd love to give one of these tiles away. We'll randomly pick from the comments below and, if we can contact you, you can pick out which one you'd like and we'll send it to you.

Click images for larger views.

124 comments:

Anonymous said...

I find myself tangling more and more in the middle of the night. It is helping me get back to sleep faster! :) Kate A. CZT IX

i am the diva said...

oh maria, these are lovely!!

You've already shared so much with me, so don't include me in the giveaway, but i just wanted to say that the last one, the mandala, is stunning. :D

laura

Anonyvox said...

I've heard that kind of mental reprogramming called "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy." It's been pretty good for me, and I use it when I'm getting into a rut worrying over something. I tell myself, "I don't have anything to gain by worrying, so I am going to think about something else now." That alone is often enough to help me shift gears.

Peg Farmer said...

One more time you have given us a life lesson...how to appreciate what we have when we're not sure we want to do that! Everything comes into our life for a reason (even dishes to be washed)....I know I'll remember this post from now on whenever I'm doing dishes. Also, I'm sorry you wake up in the middle of the night, but your creations at that time are always wonderful!!! Thanks for sharing them with us.

Megan said...

These are beautiful!

MomZenArtist said...

These tiles, of course, are stunning!

I'm really learning to apply the Zentangle philosophy to many other areas of my life. Big projects aren't as overwhelming when I take them one step or "one stroke" at a time. I'm also finding ways to reduce the obstacles--real or self-created--that prevent me from accomplishing other tasks. It's really helping. I'm immensely thankful for the Zentangle method. Thank you, Rick and Maria! Ooh, I hope I win. :-)

Unknown said...

If Zentangle has taught me one thing, it's that your catch phrase is one we can apply to life. "Everything IS possible, one stroke at a time." Thank you for this gift of tangle that we all enjoy so much and has taught me more than I expected!

Tinkered Art said...

What a lovely feast of Zentangle and words to live by. Have to agree with Laura - that last one stunning - took my breath away!

Linda Selymes said...

What a wonderful example of a life philosophy that will work so well for us, and zentangle fits right in. There's a proverb that says "I used to be sad that I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet". A scripture that says "as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he". How and what we think about probably do more to shape our lives than almost anything else. Thanks for sharing. I hope I win one of your gorgeous tiles. I too, absolutely adore the zendala, although they are all lovely.
Linda Selymes, CZT 10

Carol Graham said...

I'm with you Maria- "Fake it till you Make it!" I really believe attitude is everything, and if you can re-frame something negative into something positive, the world just gets to be a whole lot nicer place to live - for everybody.
Can't wait to meet you in October!


Jody said...

Ha Ha, I'm laughing because I'm an insurance assessment nurse and I absolutely despise the paperwork and sorting out he said, she said, or what they didn't say. Now, I'm trying to figure out a way to turn these 22 pages of questions and blanks into "fun". Oh, wow, I'll be laughing about this all day now. Thanks I needed that!! (not too mention it takes me away from my tangle time.)

Molly said...

My Mom has quietly suggested such theories to me all my life ... it is this practice that has taught me to crave Kale and love winter.
My Zentangle practice teaches me that it is not only more fun to love it than to hate it ... but the more love to see ... well there's more love to see.

lacey lacey czt 6 said...

that is a wonderful idea! i have to stop drinking cola and i am a hopeless addict...it is almost impossible. i will give it a try.
i get so many ideas from your work. my other addiction is mooka. my hand just naturally wants to start there! thank you again for all the inspiration.
=^0.o^=

Debra said...

Well you have done it again. You have beautifully put into words what I have been trying to accomplish for myself. I have been using the positive approach so that I may feel better about small accomplishments and minor triumphs. I hope they will become bigger and better and more and more positive. And maybe even rub off on others? My yoga instructor gave us some words of wisdom the other day. "Stress is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are." Zentangle is my tool to find out who I am! Thank you Maria.

Lois Stokes said...

3:33 is the waking hour for me. A time to tangle and untangle: fear & worry, unhappiness, doubt, anxiety, stress... and change those patterns into trust, love, happiness, confidence and relaxation. Each night before I sleep I hold my day at arm's length, turn it around, and Whisper Aloha in gratitude and appreciation.

robbin said...

I have just discovered zentangles and am surprised how quickly I become absorbed in it. You r tangles are beautiful and inspiring. Regards , sueWestiuzi

Megz said...

Tangling is a joy...and seeing what others have done is too. Thanks for sharing what you do.

NanW said...

Attitude is everything, as they say. And I really believe you can change the way you view things by changing your attitude. Your tangles are all beautiful, but I'm drawn to the last one especially.

Earl Stokes said...

This giveaway is such a fun idea!

Sue Clark said...

You have put your awakenings to good use by creating such beautiful art for us to admire and are turning a negative (not sleeping) into a positive (creating). So often, not sleeping would be a time of mind worry but with the practice of Zentangle it can be a time for present moment clarity, (another form of awakening). Thanks for sharing your beautiful work! It's always a feast for the eyes!

Kathy Shabowski said...

What a wonderful thought process! I am trying to teach my four children that any job worth doing is worth doing well. Sometimes their idea of what is worth doing is different than mine. LOL I think I will change my approach to yours and see what kind of progress we make. Your tiles are all absolutely beautiful and I would be honored to have one of these treasures.

Thank you!

Lorelei said...

Oh My Goodness, I'm usually awake once or twice a night and turn on mahjong or kindle. You've inspired me to zentangle during those wide-awake while the house is asleep nights.... Thank You for your continued inspiration. I'd love to have a tile to hang on my inspiration board. Lorelei (loreleicampbell54@yahoo.com)

Willowolfe said...

I agree with you. I try to do the least favorite activity first. It's out of the way and I can enjoy the rest.

Victoria said...

Zentangling is so relaxing, thanl you for introducing me to it.
I'll have to try it when I awake durng the night on occasion.
All of the tangles are gorgeous, i especially love the last one.

Shelly Beauch said...

Three cheers Maria! Thank you for adding brightness and sparkle with thoughtfulness. A home looks appreciated when it's tidy!

Chrissie said...

Here I am reading your blog at 2:00 am UK time. We have been back from the States for five days and the jet lag is doing crazy things to my sleep pattern! Do I get up, or do I stay in bed hoping for sleep to come..... I love all the designs of your tiles but especially the third one. It's like a bouquet of flowers pretending to be a cushion. Beautiful.

mwcahn@ptd.net said...

It is so true you can change your outlook with words,
and saying them aloud is powerful.
Tangling fuels my creative power without words.

Your nighttime Zentangles are so inspiring.
Love how you use Quandry.

Melissa

Webster said...

I do so love your work, Maria, but the very last - the 'sunflower' - is a stunner. Having lived with MS for 32 years, I have also done my fair share of re-framing a negative into a positive. What I like most about Zentangle is that there are no mistakes, which makes it the perfect artform for my slightly wobbly lines.

Cris@TangledUpInArt said...

Thank you for sharing your beautiful spirit. Dare I say that it is even more beautiful than your art - and that is saying something.

Marcia said...

All are exquisite. When you give the gift of your art, you sharing a piece of yourself that is freely given and treasured by the receiver. Can it get any better?

Linda said...

Thank you for posting these comments and tangles. I'm on a personal retreat on the far northern coast in the farthest north of our country and guess what I brought? Yes, Zentagles! It's cool and rainy and the fire is going and I am enjoying the process of tangling in the beauty of the far northwest.

Jennifer Van Pelt, CZT said...

I am going to try your technique with exercise....

Here's to changing the way I think of exercise!

Thanks!

Unknown said...

just dicovering the Zentangle artform, finding it so intriquing an beautiful, struggling with some illnesses and searching for inner peace, tangling may help distract my mind and calm my soul, while soothing my creative drive as well, thank you for the inspiration

Zentangle said...

Thanks everyone, I love hearing your thoughts on this subject. So important to glide through this life with ease and strength. We can do it. yup.
I will announce the tangler who will choose one of these tiles tile to keep on Tuesday, next. I should have put this in the post. . . .sorry

maria

DonnaMarie said...

At work, Expense reports can be pretty boring to do, so I tell myself they are a little puzzle that I have to put together. Fools myself into making it more entertaining.

Wanda Bell said...

I read all the comments which leaves me nothing to say except "WOW". I am trying to get information on your next seminars and I click on them and get a message that says "return to event page". Help. I would love to become a CZT. I never thought that I could draw or had any talen in that area. Your zentangles have opened up my life in areas of art I never thought possible. It goes to "If you give a man a fish" he has a meal for the day. If you teach a man to fish, he has food forever. I love zentangling and thank you for sharing.

Zentangle said...

Wow, Wanda, I love that analogy. We'll have to elaborate on that someday! Many thanks. maria

Adele Bruno said...

You beautifully put into words what I have practiced over the years in making a home for our family. When explaining to a growing child that all responsibilities must be tended to, not just the ones they enjoy - I ask, "Do you think I like scrubbing bathrooms, doing laundry, etc?" More often than not the reply comes back,"But Mom, you look like you enjoy it!" And therein lies the lesson.
Thank you Maria for the reinforcement.

Anonymous said...

Maria, I look at your Zentangle art and I am inspired. I read your words and the inspiration fills my heart.

cindy lee b. said...

When I read 'Time' I thought the time had come to announce the next CZT training. I'm waiting with baited breath, hoping this is the time I get to come. I the meantime if I get a chance to have a piece of you here, well that would be fabulous! : ) cindy b

Anonymous said...

Just found your sight and I am new to zentangling. Getting lost in time is an understatement. What a magnificent art form. Your third tile reminds me of an exploding heart of love, how appropriate for Valentine's day. I live in Philadelphia, PA and would love to find a czt training in my area. Thank your for sharing and inspiring.

Julia.

ntexas99 said...

new to your blog, and would love to have the presence of one of your zentangles in my space ... I've recently begun using an alternate form of unintentional art: rock balancing. found it by accident (or not?) and gradually began experimenting with it, and now I am learning to appreciate the art more and more every day.

Anonymous said...

Wow! What a find! Thank you Mary C and Debbie K for putting it on your FB pages! I love the drawings and the reflections. I've been looking for a vehicle to help me meditate and this just may be it! Thanx for being here!

Dennie said...

Thank you Maria for your pictures and inspiration. When I started practicing zen a few years ago, I learned: when you're doing the dishes, do the dishes. . . when you're cooking, cook, etc. It was then I began to enjoy the so-called mundane tasks because I was present when doing them. Zentangle has brought more than I can express into my life at just the right time. Something amazing to experience every single day. Happy Valentines day to you and Rick.

Unknown said...

Positive thoughts are so important in maintaining a sense of well-being. Zentangle is a way to get in touch with the positive images we have and letting go of the negative one. Thanks for a chance to win a drawing.

Suspinz: Dabbler in Many Things said...

Lovin' this art form...both the Zen of it and the look of it. The newsletter is always interesting, too.

Cheers!

Anonymous said...

Can't wait for CZT training in October!

Bonnie B - The Quilting Tangler said...

LOved today's blog, but you still haven't convinced me that I like to do dishes. Guess I'll have to work on that. Thanks for sharing your tangles with us... hope I am the lucky recipient of one of them. Happy Valentine's Day!
Bonnie Browning, CZT #7

Anonymous said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all you do that is beautiful and all you are that is also beautiful.

Sherri said...

Maria - Happy Valentine's Day to you and Rick. What a wonderful present you have shared with us on this day.
I, too, find myself tangling in the wee hours on many a night and I would love to have one of your works of art for my studio. Thank you for all you and Rick have shared with us over the years.

Dr. Jude Rathburn said...

Hi Maria and thanks for sharing your beautiful Zentangles. Your comments about reframing your attitude towards doing the dishes were very insightful. I have applied similar reframing in many areas, especially assigning grades to orojects and papers. Instead of calling it grading (which I "hate"), I am now thinking about it as an opportunity to provide feedback that might encourage and inspire someone to grow and improve their skills in a meaningful way. This new approach makes all the difference in the world. Thanks for the reminder that attitude is a little thing that can make all the difference.

BJ Nichol said...

These are so lovely. Thanks so much for sharing. I'm definitely going to try your doing the dishes trick for things I don't like to do. Positive thinking. It will make life more positive. BJ

Jo-Ellen Mathews said...

My mom was diagnosed with dementia many years ago. I became her healthcare surrogate 3 years ago when my dad died. I will be moving her into an assisted living facility next week, and I've had difficulty sleeping since making the decision even though I am confident this move will improve her quality of life. Zentangle has been a blessing as I continue to watch my mom slip away from me. I keep reminding myself that I have plenty to be grateful for: my dad left enough financial resources for my mom to live in a top-notch facility, there is a top-notch facility near me, my mom is not in pain, and I am especially grateful that I am able to care for her and be there for her as she did for me my whole life when she was able.

Thank you for this beautiful and amazing gift you have given us! Happy Valentine's Day! May you feel the love that is sent to you may so many.

Jo-Ellen Mathews, CZT-7

Jungle Beads Maui said...

I'm really enjoying the graphic relaxation of the elements of my random thought and expression. I truly love seeing all the examples of everyone's creative tiles.

Denise Knobloch said...

Happy Valentine;s day to you & your's! Thank you for sharing with everyone. I work with addictions & mental health challenges. In my work I talk about wellness toolboxes. Reframing is the most important tool in my box.By finding the positives & focusing there, making a game out of things I may not have found so enjoyable, all make for a better experience in life. I have times where I get dizzy. Since I have no treatment, I have reframed this. I like being dizzy. It's like getting on a ride at the amusement park, only I didn't have to buy a ticket or wait in line for the free ride. My doctor said he never had anyone say they like being dizzy, except me. This serves me well for so many years I apply it to as many things as possible. The more I practice this, the easier it is to do! Denise K. CZT8

Unknown said...

Please count me in!! Absolutely loved the newsletter this morning and the Ode to Joy flashmob...Contact info: williammaurice44@comcast.net

Bette Abdu said...

Thanks for sharing your perspective and reminding me that the majority of my life is excellent and that those things I'm less fond of are only that way because I think that way.

Susan said...

Thank you! What wonderful thoughts to carry me through the rest of the week!

Fallingladies said...

I make myself think of the people i love that have eatten off the dishes, and remember i am caring for them when i do the dishes. That has helped me like the chore more!

Andrea

Barb said...

I am brand new to Zentangle. I can't even remember how I found your Web site! They say when you are ready to learn, the teacher will appear (or something like that). I am so ready to learn and practice this art. I don't know how you know how to contact someone, but I suppose that's not for me to worry about?? Thank you for the unexpected gifts I've already received!

Jenny P. CZT*10 said...

A wonderful reminder about mindfulness and the power of positive thinking. Beautiful tiles, as always. Thank you both for sharing so much of yourselves with so many!

Katy Abbott said...

Thank you for sharing your beautiful art and way of life. Truly inspiring!

Unknown said...

Changing your thought patterns can open up so many new possibilities in your life. I've gone from "I can't draw at all," to..."I am an artist!"

BARB WELLS said...

Thank you for these awesome insights. Just what I needed today. One of my favorite movies is Pollyanna and I can truly say that I am "GLAD ABOUT ZENTANGLE!" It has made a huge difference in my life and in the life of my students.
Barb Wells, CZT #4

fraidy cat said...

Maria and Rick, you continue to enrich the lives you touch. Much gratitude!
Susan Handsom

Carla said...

I'm just learning about Zentangle and am so excited to get started. Thank you for this blog and the newsletters. I learn something from each one.

CathWi said...

Learning and teaching Zentangle has enriched my life considerably. Thank you so much for sharing with the world through these blogs, newsletters and seminars. I am simply grateful.
Cathy Staeven, CZT #7

Kay said...

Your tiles are stunning like always. I´m so glad Zentangle came into my life, I get so much inspiration from Zentangle blogs.
Please count me in.

Susie Falkler said...

WOW! I've added video to my utube favorites list. Just watching the kids "conducting" and dancing made me smile. Secondly Maria, you said to play with new tangle and we'll come up with some better than yours. No Way...you are the best ever. I wish you had more time to just tangle away, but I know you're so busy with business and classes.

Unknown said...

"Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." – Abraham Lincoln

Thanks for sharing your work - always lovely, and your admirable victory over drudgery.

Sparkle said...

I am so excited about learning to tangle! This is my first newsletter, and my first class is next month.

Tangle Jam said...

What a beautiful post and a wonderful reminder that each of us choose how to spend our time and our energy. Positive thoughts heal, nurture and give back to us, all that we truly need. I have turned many long hours into wonderful creative adventures. I am endlessly grateful for the gift of Zentangle. Thank you for this continued positive energy.

crotnem said...

Wow,great newsletter this time. I thouht I'd seen "quandry" on a video and I did. It's great. Thanks for a chance to win one of yor tiles Maria!

BarbaraW said...

Your words an your art are so life inspiring. I'm so grateful that I have had the opportunity to step into your world.

Mavis LaBounty, CZT said...

I am always impressed with the variations of any tangle! Beautiful, of course!!

KRM330 said...

Beauty in black and white. Brand new to tangling, inspired by your work!

Donna C said...

I've always "admired" artists and have been blessed to have two talented children. My son is taking an art course in college where the instructor introduced him to Zentangle. I so admired his first pieces and my son encouraged me try it myself. Never having any artistic talent, I resisted. He sat with me for 2 hrs providing patience and instructions. Now, I can't believe I am able to create "art". For this "non-artist" to create such beautiful pieces is a heart felt joy! Thank you Rick & Maria for sharing this beautiful art form with all of us! You are truly a wonderful blessing!

Barbara said...

Maria, Thank you for sharing your words as well as your art...both are inspiring! I've been reading and tangling on my own and look forward to learning how to tangle correctly at your seminar in June. Happy Valentine's Day to you, Rick and other tanglers around the world!

Denise Werderitsch said...

Wow! These are beautiful...I love the pop-up quality of the first one!

Unknown said...

Hi, Maria! What a gift to be able to see these lovely tiles you create and what a gift to be able to create them.I LOVE your work. It's mesmerizing! I'll gladly take any of your tiles. And, I like doing dishes too.

Genevieve said...

Wow! What a feast for the eyes. I love how all your tiles are so different from each other. Thank you for sharing!

Unknown said...

I have been a 'tangler' for a year now and you're so right, time does fly when doing something I enjoy, but then, by tangling,and releasing the 'inner me' I am enjoying more somethings!
I love everything you do, you two and truly enjoy working as many variations of your tangles onto my tiles.....thnk you thank you!

Unknown said...

Some 12 yrs ago, I was set on a spiritual path as I was having to deal with family issues I did not know how nor want to "look at". It was said by Buddha or Rumi or some other enlightened one, "when you change the way you look at the world, the world changes". This statement changed my life - no truer words have ever been spoken. I thank you for your generosity of spirit for sharing your talent and love.
With respect,
Jo

Dianne said...

I had a break from drawing zentangles but recently picked up the pen again and don't understand why I stopped!
One look at the last tile and I wished that I had created it.

myownplace said...

I absolutely love to tangle and one of my dreams is to take your certification course. I would love to win one of your tiles.

Anonymous said...

Maria and Rick,
I am new to Zentangle and find it so relaxing and am unleashing some of my artistic talents from long ago. I have always been a "doodler" but then went on to explore other art and teach art at a small parochial elementary school. This week I tried teaching the 5-8th grade classes the art of Zentangle and was pleasantly surprised to see the kids work. Thanks for the inspiration and I can't wait to take the CZT class and improve my skills. MarNel

Terri Brown said...

Love the new tangle and the inspiration for it. I use Zentangle to relax when I come home from work. I get completely lost in it so much that when I happen to check the clock, 3-4 hours have gone by and I need to go to bed. I love to show people how to get started and love even more the look on their faces when they realize they too, can create something wonderful! I am signed up for the October seminar and it can't get here soon enough! Thank you so much for what you have inspired in so many!

quiltsNtangles said...

My church is currently searching for a settled pastor. I mentioned Zentangle recently and the fact that I had been creating more tiles recently. No surprise but four other members said that they had been creating more too during this search! Thank you for the stress reliever.

BarbS said...

What an inspiring post, Maria! I work in the mental health field so frequently hear about many "dislikes". I'm convinced that the secret of people who overcome their difficulties is that they somehow change their relationship to their "dislikes". I love the way you bring Zentangle into this mix. Thank you for sharing your thoughts :-)

Kristin said...

Thanks for the great thoughts. I sure need to put more positive into cleaning house and doing dishes. I love your art work and would treasure a piece. Thanks for the chance.

ptrish40 said...

Your words ring so true to me - my time spend tangling, just flies by. And I always feel so much better afterward. I've had the opportunity to share my love for Zentangle with some high school students who have suffered emotional and physical abuse. They too have found that the during the time they spend putting pen to paper gives them a heightened sense of self-esteen and pride in what they have created.
Hugs to you!

Marlen Waters said...

I know I am not a CZT (yet) so I don't say I am teaching Zentangle, but and do try to "share" Zentangle with others. It is soooooooooo easy to share. Everyone I share it with gets addicted to it just like I am. It is amazing to see all the different styles that everyone does. Some are tiny and tight and some can't stay within the strings-no matter--it all is beautiful. Thanks for this gift. I am planning to "tangle" a monogram and use it on my daughter's wedding program. And to decorate her wedding book. I also made Valentines for my family, too.

Bessamy said...

Maybe I do love to do the dishes! Well, I don't, but I could give that reprogramming a try. That last tile is spectacular! Wow!

Thanks for all you do!

Precious Worker said...

If I was drooler, I would over your artwork Maria. The great thing is that you make it viewable for us and we dont have to drag ourselves off in the heat of summer (34 today) to see them. and the artwork in your book is outstanding. I am so glad I kept persevering to get a copy as the book is an artwork of its own. I would dearly love to have one of your tiles, but what chance is there in 92?. anyway, be warmed by my comment.

Phylart@new.rr.com said...

I do like doing dishes; my kitchen is the one place where I keep on top of things. I love tangling, however and would love one of your originals.

Darrelyn said...

Maria - what a challenging suggestion! How many ways can I think of to be happy to mop the kitchen floor, or pay the bills? I'm going to put your advice to the test first thing tomorrow, because I really don't like getting up in the morning! And your tiles - as always - are beautiful and inspiring!

Ronnie said...

All of your Zentangles are awesome! You are so very talented. I would love to have one. Here's hoping!

Your description of attitude shifting often works for me too. I try to find joy in all the I do. Zentangle has brought much joy and focus into my life and I thank you for sharing your work.

Tracy said...

Hi Rick and Maria, thank you so much for your words of wisdom and talent! I loved the "Ode to Joy" this morning, and even made my little ones watch it. They loved it! I left it set so that when my hubby got up, he could watch it too. My little girl asked why everyone was dancing and looked happy? I replied...music and beautiful hearts make everyone happy. Take care, Tracy from Adelaide Australia

Jennifer Abe said...

These are so beautiful and unique! I just started tangling and can't wait to learn more. Your words about attitude adjustment also really struck home for me. Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Your tangles are mesmerizing! I have just started tangling so I haven't done a lot yet. I'm afraid to try tangling when I wake up in the middle of the night! I can just see me sitting there tangling until the sun comes up! ; ) Thank you for introducing tangling to the world.

Rhonda from Michigan

Zentangle said...



So, dear tanglers, I am so overwhelmed by the exuberance of your stories and comments, that I decided to give away all the tiles. . . . you deserve it. I think we will have the first winner choose from 4, the second choose from 3 , etc.

Love you guys.

This is way too much fun. maria

Zentangle said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Susan aka paintermom said...

Ilove your tangles! They inspire my own. I always feel myself stretching for something new after I read a newsletter or see a blog post. I would be honored to own one.

Linda said...

Your tangles are so beautiful! And I read this post on the day I was supposed to (as happens frequently). I have been caring for my elderly parents for a couple of years, and my mom is currently in the hospital. Your advice about time really hit me, and made oh, so much sense. Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Hi Maria,

Your tangles are beautiful as always. I noticed that you and Rick will be in Fort Worth, Texas in March. Will you be giving any classes? I would love to take a class from you.

Thanks for being so generous with your art.

Sincerely,
Sandy Armstrong

gobarb26 said...

Hi Maria. First let me say that I loved the Ode to Joy flash mob that was in your Zentangle letter. The new tangle looks like fun and I am looking forward to trying it when I am able. I am a cancer patient. I just got out of the hospital due to complications. Actually, I learned about Zentangle 2 years ago while I was having a stem cell transplant at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL. They were showing how to do it in their Arts in Medicine program. I immediately fell in love and have been tangling ever since! I really wanted to take your CZT class this year, but due to my illness, I am not able to make it. Thank you and Rick, so much for helping me cope with my cancer, one stroke at a time!

Alice said...

I definitely need to try your technique - I don't care for doing dishes at all. Of course, i could apply this in several areas of my life!

Zentangle said...

To Anon., we will be teaching at the Sakura booth at NAEA conference, in Dallas /Fort Worth We won't, unfortunately have any time other than that. maria

Anonymous said...

I love your work, and your words are certainly inspirational!

Tracy

Lorraine said...

I needed to give myself some redirection as I found that I was spending so much valuable time just looking at things that I would tell myself I could do. So my focus is to spend less time looking at what I can do and more time doing what I can. This includes completing started projects and using the materials I've collected for them. I feel that if all I do is explore and practice a new tangle each day I am feeding my creativity and moving forward in my goal.

Anonymous said...

I love all your work. I read your book every night. Pat. Pcfrance@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

Your work is always inspiring, I like all your tiles, but especially the last one!!

Styx and Stones said...

Thank you Rick and Maria for sharing your time and the Zentangle Method with me...the last tile is magnificent....

Artbelles said...

Ode to Zentangles
(With apologies to Brrtthoven, Schiller & Sabadell)

Tangles, tangles
We adore thee--
Cymes of Glory,
Purks of love.
Hearts unfold like Flux before thee--
Hail thee to the Dex above.
Melt the clouds of Tagh and Tipple,
Drive the Oof of doubt away--
Giver of Immortal Tangles,
Share your Art with me today.

You are an inspiration, Maria. Looking forward to meeting you at the CZT Seminar in June.
Annabelle (Artbelles)

Cindy Hernandez, CZT said...

Thank you for the "joyous ode" , the new tangle and most especially the tiles you share. Your examples are always such an inspiration. I'm one of the lucky ones to come to October's classes and can't wait. Until then I will practice and enjoy your beautiful book!

Ginny Stiles said...

I've never left a comment on your blog before I don't think. And am not sure how these give aways work.
You don't post a deadline for comments. But owning one of your personal works would be totally amazing and splendid. I read your blog whenever you post and have the blog posted on MY blog as a favorite, of course. My dream is someday to come to Providence to meet you. Your work is truly inspiring.

Nana711 said...

Tangling has made such a difference in my life. Thank you.

Francie said...

Thanks for your thoughts. It gives me a new perspective on the "not so fun" areas of my life.

Your tiles are an inspiration!

Anonymous said...

Oooh! Big smiles to you. Thanks for your beautiful art and thoughts! ~ Holly Williams

loscann said...

I am in a rough place right now and just wanted to say thank you for Zentangle. It has been such a help to me to create something beuatiful when some things aren't so pretty...

Claudia said...

I love how you taught yourself to love doing dishes. And I love making art to give away. You have such a lovely talent and share it so well. Thank you.

Beth said...

I took my first Zentangle class back in September. It came at just the right time. I needed to be creative again, I needed a form of meditation, and I just needed to do something for me-separate from home, work and family. I have been taking classes with an awesome CZT, Patti Euler, and I'm registered to attend the June seminar. I'm so happy that Zentangle found me. It's changed my life in so many positive ways.

Scrappy Canuck said...

I am a new fan - just having discovered Zentangles in December, and attended my first class in January! You tangles are amazing, but I most enjoy reading the posts...they just seem to convey a feeling of peacefulness! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and inspirations and Zentangles!