Author: queentracey1

That is a very good question–AND it’s one that is oh-so-very relevant for the upcoming Nature Art Challenge! For the first week of May (that’s May 1-May 7), the focus of our artful explorations will center around exploring nature’s TEXTURES through the art of ZENTANGLE. Let me explain.

The Zentangle method, according to their website,  “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.” Sounds like the recipe for focused artful explorations in nature!

Below is an in-process Zentangle that I have been working on. As described in my worksheet that I’ve posted below, I started by drawing the outline of a tree in the school courtyard. I then began dividing the tree into different sections and…

… a coin at the bottom of a suitcase, and with it, memories of a lovely trip to Japan.  I tossed the coin on a tabletop and that’s where the sun touched it.

In fact, a dandelion, up close and personal.

What happens when you stumble upon a basket of silk scarves …

Of late, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Boston’s Cathedral of the Holy Cross, the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston.  It is a beautiful historic structure in the vibrant neighborhood of South Boston.  You can learn more about the people and place via this link.  Meanwhile, here’s a peek at some of the imagery to be found in the interior.  Enjoy.

In an old journal, I found the following words.  Perhaps one day I will polish them, but even a bit rough, I feel inclined to share them, paired with some new images.  I suppose I should be sharing a poem, given that it’s Put a Poem in Your Pocket Day, but perhaps there is poetry embedded in these words and images. 

Journal Entry:  Several friends think that I never go to the dark places. That I always see the light in the world. The glass is always at least half-full.  Lemons can always be turned into tasty lemonade.  There is no dark so dense where some bit of brightness cannot be found.  At such accusations, I usually say nothing or  I perhaps point out the beauty of fallen petals upon the ground. I do not to say with indignation, you are wrong because I do go to the dark…

A furry friend seen while walking through the Boston Public Garden this week.