Zentangles

Zentangle is an art form that has its roots in meditation. It is characterized by black lines on a white background that create interlocking patterns to create the overall image.

Zentangle theory hinges on a few key principles. 

1. Anything is possible one line at a time. 
2. Deliberate stroke: focus on one line at a time, one stroke at a time. Put all your attention and focus on the one line you are drawing.
3. No eraser. You can always turn your "mistakes" into opportunities for your drawing to go in. 
4. No predetermined solution. Let each line build upon the previous and soon it will take a life of its own. 
5. Always think in pattern. 
6. Meditation: the act of focus on the task "line" at hand and letting go of attachment to the entire image is very meditative. 

With the latest adult coloring book craze, zentangles have experienced a surge in popularity. 

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Assignment # 1:

Please open a new Adobe Illustrator file, 8.5 x 11" and copy and paste the worksheet to the right into that file. 

Create 2 value scales, one using line and the other using shape to match the values in the top value scale. 

This will help you practice creating patterns and how to manipulate your lines and shapes to show value. 

Example finished worksheet below:

Worksheet Tutorial Below:

zentangle_value_scale_worksheet.pdf
File Size:	1278 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

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​youtu.be/7rCyTasTByM

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Assignment # 2

You are to create a zentangle of your zodiac sign!

They must include the following:

1. There must be a background done in Adobe Photoshop using the gradient tool and optional overlays. 
2. There must be at least 3 different patterns that you create within your zentangle.
3. It must in the end be recognizable as the zodiac sign itself.
4. It must have varying line weight and quality. (adjusting the point size and stroke style) 
5. It must show good work ethic and EFFORT. 

Tutorial Below:

https://youtu.be/_m8s5pTSuYE

zentangle.pdf
File Size:	4050 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

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Aquarius Example Below: Water Bearer 

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Virgo Example Below: The Virgin
(symbol usually depicts a woman with flowing hair)

Assignment # 3:
Reflection Questions

When you are done with your project, and it is in your google portfolio for grading, answer the following questions in the comment section underneath your slide:

1. What do you think you did well in this project?
2. What do you think you could improve on in this project?
3. What did you learn how to do, or get better at doing in this project?
4. Explain why you chose the human and animal pairing that you did. 

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