Jen writes... One of our favorite parts of a Zentangle class is when the mosaic comes together. The creation of this bigger piece of art from all the unique compositions will never cease to dazzle. Usually everyone has followed a similar set of instructions, but there is such beauty and inspiration in the differences. It is delightful to narrowly focus on each individual tile and notice the different styles and directions the tanglers went. But, when you step back and change your focus, and absorb the art piece created as a whole, there is that “wow” moment. There is even...

The United States has been observing Mental Health Awareness during the month of May since 1949. Each year, businesses, organizations, schools, and individuals dedicate this month to acknowledge those affected by mental illness by presenting innovative ideas, events, and programs to support the treatment and prevention of mental illness. Many individuals that suffer from mental health symptoms have found that creating art can be used as a therapy and have very positive effects on their condition. A regular practice of creating art can be nurturing for relieving stress, increasing confidence, and supporting general mental health wellness in all of us,...

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month and our collaboration with UMass MIND of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, we would like to share studies around the general benefits of creating art and the use of the Zentangle Method for individuals with serious mental illness. If you are an avid tangler, you may not need another excuse to tangle, but here are some benefits of creating art:  Engaging in visual arts has been shown to improve emotional regulation, or the control we have over our emotional state in a diverse range of stressful situations, as well as overall well-being...