Zentangling
My current facination is in Zentangle. "Zen- what?" you ask? Well according to www.zentangle.com, it is:
... a way of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. It is fun and relaxing. Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases focus and creativity, provides artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well being. The Zentangle method is enjoyed all over this world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages.
According to me its:
- Something I am really good at and can get lost in for hours. I wish everyone had something they could say that about! The world would be a happier place.
- A heck of a lot harder than it looks! When I first picked up a skimpy little book about it, I thought I'd give it a go and be fabulous from the start. Really? I challenge you - pick up a pencil and draw a basket weave. Try again. Ok, now emulate M.C.Escher. Uh huh, not as easy as it looks, is it?
- An art form so involved, that it gives you plenty of time to conceptualize the next thing to do with your "finished" piece. I am currently planning how to make my hand into the spinner in my own personal game of life. Watch for more to come on that one!
They also have this to say about it:
"At all age levels, whether in public, private or home school environments,
Zentangle can improve:
Handwriting
Eye/hand coordination
Creativity and personal expression
Problem solving
Cross-cultural understanding, using various cultural symbols such as Indian
henna patterns, Celtic knotting, Zuni pottery, Maori tattoos or Islamic
tiling.
Relaxation and focus
Confidence
Moreover, Zentangle's method can be enjoyed by many ages simultaneously in a
group setting. This can be particularly useful in educational settings where
different age groups regularly interact..."
I see a class project coming on! Anybody want to 'tangle with me?
Welcome to Karen O'Keeffe - Art Teacher! I set up this blog to showcase my experience and talent in working with children in art. I am absolutely passionate about awakening children’s realizations that they are each artist, constantly surround by a world of art!
Growing up, I had a brother that was outstanding in Math and Science. But I felt that I was "only" good at fine and performing arts and that somehow that made him the smarter sibling. Well, clearly that's just wrong! This assumed inequality has encouraged me to show children the connections between the arts and the sciences - one could not exist without the other.
I envision using a curriculum, that not only meets or exceeds the state standards, but that works in conjunction with the curriculums of the regular classroom teachers, the SPED teachers, and the ELL Teachers.
I envision a classroom that is not a craft room, but a well-rounded art center offering lessons that include both informal and formal formative learning practices and that includes the use of the teaching cycle.
I envision a variety of activities from visiting professional, to virtual field trip to en plein aire experiences.
I envision art clubs that could include any of the following or more:
• Mural Club
• Playground Art
• Art Department Fundraisers/ Grant proposals
• Community Service Projects
• Field Trips
• Art History
• Art Collecting
I envision opportunities to display the children's accomplishments via:
• Bulletin Boards
• Display Cases
• Web Pages
• District Art Shows
• Library displays
• Public Art Shows
• Year End Gallery Openings
I envision an inclusive Art Room where parents are welcome to volunteer, children are encouraged to bare their souls and growth is imminent.
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