Maria writes...
I like to collect interesting words. I have a (used-to-be) blank book just for them. Of course, they are beautifully written, and defined, so I won’t forget why I liked the word in the first place. Words like. . . “Notabilia,” “Stellate,” “Caper,” “Triskelion,” “Transmogrify.”
But, when I came across “Autoschediasm,” well, I just about. . . for lack of a better word, fainted! I mean, just look at it. It’s beautiful. And, fun to say. Say it ten times fast and see what I mean. Hmmmm. Autoschediasm is simply this: something that is improved, spontaneous, impromptu. Wow. I like to think that I might be an Autoschediastic tangler. What do you think? Spontaneous switches in lines and forms. Unrehearsed, fearless, ad-libbed patterning without the angst of mistangleism. I think that all the famous (and a few not-so-famous) artists experienced some form of Autoschediasmic moments on a daily basis. Perhaps they didn’t quite know what was happening at the time, but eventually, they accepted these “gifts” and quietly, knowingly, continued their day with a slight smile, maybe even hummed or whistled a tune or two for the rest of the day. Autoschediasm can do that to a person. When you least expect it, the big “A” can turn a so-so day into an incredible one.

Now, here’s the big secret: anyone, a you or a me, can experience Autoschediasm. All you need is an open mind, a sense of spirit, a sprinkle of courage, and a sly smile. But, here’s the caveat: it’s habit-forming in the most wonderful way. You will want to implement Autoschediasm whenever and wherever you can. It’s what art is all about.

Autoschediasm. Huh. Who knew it could be that simple.
Just maybe, you too could become a “Philocast.” Like me.
Oh, my! And isn’t this what life itself is all about?!
We might start with a plan, but opening ourselves up for extemporaneous experiences, we grow richer, more full of life itself. I love this way of seeing my Zentangle practice, and daily living.
Here’s to autoschediasm and the new insights we can have!
Ginger White CZT34 on
Rita J. M. Blom on
Oh uhh am simply in LOVE this word!!
“AUTOSCHEDIASM” it sounds like it could be such a great, elaborate Zentangle technique…. and to think about it, it already is and it’s also simple too!! We implement this so much in our Zentangle practice everyday, it now just has a beautiful new name ❤️
Vandana Krishna on
Nancy Day on
Rita Miller on
Perfect Word of the Day for next Tuesday. The children will love it! So fun to say, and it sums up what we do perfectly. Thank you for the inspiration.
Ann Baum, CZT36 on
Jessica L DykesCZT39 on
Autoschediasm refers to something done offhand, improvised, or extemporized. It’s essentially a noun representing the act of improvising or doing something without prior planning or preparation. The word is derived from the Greek word “autoschediásma,” meaning “something that is improvised”.
Perfect for Zentangle!
candyce c. anderson on
I feel surprising well prepared. I don’t even go in the restroom for nerves gasping and gagging a half hour before like I did before every one of my Clown jobs years ago. Wether the camera works or they can’t see or there is no place to display the tiles (so we did them on post its and stuck them to the white board!). Or even if the camera and computer fails…I have confidence we can improvise and adding lots of our communal “love”. With gratitude!
Mary Ellen Ziegler # 33 on
candyce c. anderson on