Martha writes...
We have just returned from an incredible Zentangle event. Tanglers from around the world gathered in Mystic, Connecticut, and online, for three days of tangled bliss. Some of the attendees knew each other, having attended Zentangle events from as long ago as 2009! Some of them met through a shared online experience and were just seeing one another, face to face, for the first time. But most of the attendees were meeting for the very first time with one thing in common, they were all CZTs.
I had the unique perspective of witnessing these reunions from afar, a bird’s eye view, or butterfly’s view if you will. IYKYK! Time and again I witnessed smiles and hugs and tears of joy as people reunited or sparked new friendships. It was humbling to behold this eclectic group of young and old who traveled overseas and over mountains, from a myriad of cultures and backgrounds.
As I reflect on these observations, what I keep coming back to is how we all came to this place. In the beginning, it was all about the art and the attraction to simple black lines on a white page. We were DRAWN in and wanted more. Our desire to create these beautiful patterns was instinctual and we were ready!
Primal in nature, Zentangle art feels human. It feels like an emotion when we tangle, and it looks like a dream when we admire it. Creating with the Zentangle Method is personal and as our practice grows, we find ourselves learning more than new tangles and techniques. Somewhere along the way, it stops being a solo journey and more about sharing our discoveries and appreciating others’ work. The excitement is contagious and grows exponentially as you pass it on.
So, although we entered this new group from a common desire to create and find solace in our pen strokes, something else was simultaneously taking shape. We found a new tribe that we are a part of and can communicate with using our own secret Zentangle speak. Like the language of music or flowers or sunsets, Zentangle art sings its own song for all who are willing to understand.
Through it all, we grow as artists because of the people we meet along the way. We inspire our peers, gain strength from our shared struggles and triumphs, and broaden our network as far as the eye can see. The underlying insight is not lost on me.
We came for the tangling, and we stay for the community.
I’m a future CZT43 and cannot wait for that experience!
Jane Roberts on
The zenAgain 2025 gathering of CZTs was a truly special experience. I was grateful to gather with longtime friends, many of whom I hadn’t seen in years and also to finally meet people who I had only met online. Zentangle is a personal journey for each artist but it gifts us the opportunity of meeting fabulous people, experiencing cherished memories and being part of this special community. Sending gratitude and appreciation to ZHQ for organizing these incredible events to keep our Zentangle community connected.
Nancy D., CZT18 on
As my first in person Zentangle Headquarters event, I am grateful for the experience. It was wonderful to meet all your family and staff. The connections made online built such strong relationships it was like coming home. Thank you for the opportunity.
Joni
Barbara Joan Paolucci on
Going back to do it again in October! With humble gratitude and AWE!
Mary Ellen Ziegler CZT#33 on
Kim VanZyll on
Your post explains exactly how I feel about Zentangle. I have found that the art within myself is so important to me as I place it on paper. I have learned about my emotions from some very interesting tiles. And just as important (or perhaps, more so) are the relationships I have found along the way. For 2.5 years, every Wednesday evening has become my cornerstone of the week. Our online tangling group meets from around the world to share in community. They have become my family. And I love it dearly.
Lori Riden, CZT 37 on
Laura Marks on
Maria Vennekens on