CZT Family Tree
We always say that the Zentangle Method attracts really awesome people. We have had the pleasure of working with wonderful Certified Zentangle Teachers (CZT) all over the world and we are excited to share these wonderful people with the entire Zentangle Community. Through our series, CZT Family Tree, we will introduce individual CZTs. 
Today, we are excited to introduce Mark Duran
Name: Mark Duran CZT#: 24
Hometown: Delavan, Wisconsin U.S.A.
Favorite tangle: Purk
Favorite place to tangle: At the VA with other veterans, I along with 11 veterans did a group ZIA entry of the US Map for the veterans creative art contest and won first prize. 
How I use the Zentangle Method in my life: The Zentangle Method has been a blessing as a tool to escape from chronic pain and PTSD. When I am tangling it feels like my mind blocks out the pain messages to my brain and there is a sense of calm that I've felt no where else.
My favorite story or memory about teaching the Zentangle Method is: I teach several veteran groups, one in particular is the senior veterans in their 80's and 90's on the 9th floor of the VA hospital in Milwaukee WI. Some of these wonderful patriots are WWII vets. A few months ago while I was preparing the room for class a nurse went to gather the gentleman for another fun filled session. As she asked one veteran if he wanted to join the Zentangle group. According to the nurse, he said: " oh' yeah", and arose from his bed and put on his shiny white shoes in sharp contrast to his hospital clothes. He shuffled into the room with a little dance move exclaiming he was ready for the Zen "Tango" class. After explaining that it was more of an art therapy class than a dance class he sat down. We asked what kind of music he liked and he said Motown. I found a Motown mix on my phone and we started the Zentangle Method. It was a great session where everyone was in full zen mode for the majority of the time. I was elevated to see that even though he was tangling those white shiny shoes were dancing under the table the entire time.
Through my experiences as a CZT, I have learned: How amazing it is to see that each and every students tangles are a direct reflection of their own unique personality.
Website/Blog: markduranart.com
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Zentangle Giveaway winners! Thank you all for your all of your lovely comments on last weeks blog. We have randomly selected 9 winners to receive the following prizes. If you see your name, please send your mailing address to info@zentangle.com
1. Rick and Maria's tile - Lisa Osborne
2. Signed Color Wheel Print - Lynne Koliha
3. Signed ATIPOSAAT Print - Sandy Kelley Jones
4. Zentangle Journal - Kellie May
5. Notecards- Inge Frasch
6. Water Bottle - Yvonne Li
7. Zentangle Scarf - Becky Plack
8. Black Zendalas - Claire Warrington
Happy Tangling!
