Zentangle is a form of meditative art that involves drawing structured patterns to create beautiful and intricate designs. The practice was founded by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas in the early 2000s and has since become a popular way for people to relax and express their creativity.

Zentangle Inspired Art (ZIA) takes the principles of Zentangle and expands upon them to create more complex and detailed pieces. While Zentangle focuses on smaller, repetitive patterns, ZIA incorporates larger shapes, shading, and color to create a more dynamic finished product.

ZIA is different from traditional art in that it is less focused on the end result and more on the process of creating. Unlike traditional art, there is no pressure to create a perfect or realistic representation of something. Instead, the focus is on the act of drawing and the enjoyment of the creative process.

All that is needed for ZIA is a pen or marker and paper. Many artists also choose to incorporate color through the use of colored pencils or markers, and shading can be added with a graphite pencil or tortillon.

There are many resources available for learning ZIA, including online tutorials, books, and workshops. The Zentangle website (www.zentangle.com) offers a wealth of information and resources for beginners, as well as a list of certified Zentangle teachers who offer workshops and classes.

ZIA has been shown to have many benefits, including stress reduction, increased focus and concentration, and improved mood. The meditative nature of the practice can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation, while the act of creating can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.

Yes, anyone can do ZIA! One of the great things about the practice is that it requires no prior artistic experience or skill. The structured patterns and the focus on the process of creating make it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.