View a YouTube - 'Monotypes, Pin-Press and Zentangle®'... Creativity at it's best.  Junanne Peck shows how to use a Pin-Press and Akua inks to create a monotype, then add details and accents with tangles.

      Today I'm talking about the wonderful process of Monotypes with Zentangle... and I'll describe my coming classes at the Arizona Gourd Festival and at the Art and Soul Retreat in Virginia Beach, VA. I hope you can find time to take a class soon. For me, classes are about renewal of energy and creativity.



      Monotype is a wonderful type of creative printmaking. The process begins by applying color to a smooth surface such as glass or plexiglass. You can add marks, more colors, stencils, scratches - anything that will create a pleasing design. Your design is then transferred to paper using a Pin Press and Akua inks. I found it to be a wonderful medium to embellish with  Zentangle®.



     I have long been interested in learning more about Monotype printmaking. I finally made the time to attend a workshop given by a working artist, Junanne Peck. Junanne gave a marvelous workshop, and provided all the materials.  I am so pleased with the results I just wanted to share them with you. By the way, if you would like to take a class, you can reach Junanne at junannepeck@mac.com.



     As most of you know traveling is one of my passions. When I travel for a trade show I usually stay a few extra days in whatever city I end up in just to tour the art museums and galleries, maybe even take an art class or two. Another favorite stop I sometimes make is gourd farms. Nothing better than tromping through fields of these fanciful, odd shaped ornamental plants. Especially now since I have discovered how easy they are to tangle on.  I love how the shape of the gourd can have such an impact on the Zentangle patterns I choose.

     One of my favorite farms is the Wuertz Gourd Farm right outside of Phoenix. They grow a vast amount and an endless variety of gourds. I will be teaching classes during their 9th Annual Gourd Festival held February 3-5, 2012. I am so excited to be offering workshops combining Zentangle and gourds, two of my loves.... plus I get to stock up on more gourds!
     If you are planning to attend a workshops the sign up for classes begins today December 1st.  Here is a list of the classes I will be teaching. Hope to see you there.

Zia Mandala - inspired by Zentangle®

Teacher: Suzanne McNeil 9:30am-1:30pm Friday, February 3rd, 2012 - GC-19 Level: All Levels

Students Must Bring: A clean, dry smooth gourd- about 6”-10” in size is ideal.

        Enjoy the process of creating your own images, symbols and tangles on gourds. Zentangle is a meditative drawing style that increases focus and relaxation. It is perfect for all ages and skill levels. This exciting and visually engaging medium is fascinating. Suzanne’s captivating images have been referred to as “mesmerizing art”. Zentangle appeals to doodlers, graphic artists and painters. The class will include the Zentangle ritual and how to draw tangle patterns. You’ll learn the best design idea’s, appropriate materials and how to finish your gourd.

Zia Owls - inspired by Zentangle®

Teacher: Suzanne McNeil 9:30am-1:30pm Saturday, February 4th, 2012 - GC-31 Level: All Levels

        Enjoy the process of creating your own images, symbols and tangles on gourds. Zentangle is a meditative drawing style that increases focus and relaxation. It is perfect for all ages and skill levels. This exciting and visually engaging medium is fascinating. Suzanne’s captivating images have been referred to as “mesmerizing art”. Zentangle appeals to doodlers, graphic artists and painters. The class will include the Zentangle ritual and how to draw tangle patters. You’ll learn the best design idea’s, appropriate materials and how to finish your gourd.

     Soon after the gourd farm I will be giving a workshop at one of my favorite teaching and learning venues, the Art and Soul Retreat in Virgina Beach, VA.

Spirit Dolls - inspired by Zentangle®
9:00am - 4"30pm, Sunday, March 4, 2012 -VA152

     ‘Spirit Dolls’ have magical meaning. Learn about these dolls and create a personal spirit. Enjoy the process of creating your own images and muse symbols on hard-shell gourds. The class will include the Zentangle ritual and how to draw tangle patterns. Create a clay face on your spirit gourd and draw tangles for an original designs. Make a sampler gourd shard for a piece of jewelry. You’ll also learn how to add color to the tangles and how to add dimension with shading.
     Zentangle® is a meditative drawing style that increases focus, dexterity and relaxation. It is perfect for all ages and skill levels. This exciting and visually engaging medium is fascinating. Suzanne’s captivating images have been referred to as “mesmerizing art”. Zentangle appeals to children, doodlers, graphic artists, quilters and painters. A gourd and all materials needed for the class are included.

Zentangle of the week, enjoy and create!!

                                 Zentangle #94




Pinwheels

The Zentangle® art form and method was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas and is copyrighted. Zentangle® is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc.  and is used with permission. Learn more at  zentangle.com