Trust the Process

Since my last post 5 months ago, I've found another avenue for using Zentangle in the community. A few months ago, one of my Zentangle friends, Melissa, invited our class to create cards for the local Meals on Wheels recipients. As she mentioned, we often make these tiles and then think, "What am I going to do with these?" Several of us are now making tiles with messages of support and encouragement on the back. Today I listened to a recording of one of the recipients talking about how much she appreciates her cards, and how they transform her entry way. It is wonderful to think that we have been welcomed into homes across Orange County! 

There are 175 folks who receive the cards every week. I usually make 20 cards each week. Sometimes I find a new pattern I want to practice, with variations. Sometimes I use a simple reticula and fragments. Sometimes I use class demo tiles. Sometimes I take old tiles and give them a new life! I've even done very minimalist monotangles with no shading in case people like to color.

Exploring different, new-to-me tangles

Using new colors

A hodge-podge of old and new

Many variations on "Oof", with an invitation to add color!

This project has encouraged me to scout out new tangles, and actually use them! I had a considerable collection of tangles I liked but never really used. Now is the time! And when I find one I really enjoy, I also teach it in our weekly Zoom class.

Between teaching and making cards, I've also been learning, since my gardening has mostly come to an end now. Here are a few pages from a handmade watercolor journal I made:

I also enjoyed learning how to create tan tiles and souvenir pages, through classes with Eni Oken.

I really love this piece.

A card for R

Remembering our trip to Asheville last year

I feel like I have gained confidence in using color and working on mid-tone papers. The 12 Days of Zentangle helped me slow down and focus on building beautiful layers of ink, chalk and graphite. Here are all my tiles:

This week I took another Eni Oken class on distress ink tiles. I think it has challenged me more than anything I've ever done! A good follow-up to the Renaissance tiles we used in Project Pack 12, these tiles also have layers (and layers!) of gorgeous, saturated color. Here's my first go, with an important reminder:

Thanks for sticking with me through this long post. Now, exhale...inhale. And trust the process as you enter this new year. May it bring us all health, hope and peace.