The Beauty of Zentangle

The Beauty of Zentangle
By Suzanne McNeill and Cindy Shepard
Gifted by: Fox Chapel Publishing
www.foxchapelpublishing.com
Reviewed by: Dana Byerwalter, editor of AllFreePaperCrafts.com

Have you ever heard of "tangling"  before? Zentangle is an artistic process that is as meditative and calming as the finished works are beautiful. It involves drawing repeated and structured patterns that are relaxing to sketch and lovely to behold.

Authors Suzanne McNeill and Cindy Shepard are Certified Zentangle Teachers who have compiled an impressive collection of Zentangle-inspired masterpieces. In this book titled The Beauty of Zentangle: Inspirational Examples from 137 Tangle Artists Worldwide, the art is truly incredible. This collection includes works of art from all over the world and across and variety of mediums. Get inspired when you view these gorgeous and innovative Zentangle masterpieces, such as quilts with tangled designs, sculptures with Zentangle sketches, and even wearable projects!

Each page of this book features an image of the Zentangle masterpiece, the artist's name, and a quote from the artist about Zentangle as an art form. The artists tend to talk about what Zentangle means to them personally. One beautiful quote comes from artist Cindy Fahs, who says, "For me personally, the Zentangle method is all about relaxing and prayer---the finished piece is just an added bonus" (page 46). Other artists talk about where they specifically use tangling, such as in their journaling or origami projects. The variety of projects and the quotes about Zentangle are truly incredible. Zentangle has so many diverse meanings to so many people that this text really shows just how universal Zentangle can be.

If you are new to tangling or even if you've never heard of it before, these beautiful works of art are guaranteed to inspire. Even if you are a seasoned Zentangle expert, you are sure to find an innovative idea in this book that you haven't thought of or seen before. Find your inspiration when you see this unbelievable collection, and if you haven't done so already, start a brand new craft today!