Develop colored pencil skills while exploring The Zentangle Method of drawing through this guided botanical wreath art project. We will learn patterns and shading techniques with graphite and ink and use those skills to create depth with colored pencils. This class is perfect for beginning and advanced artists and can easily scale to challenge any level of ability.

Students will learn several Zentangle patterns, creating pattern palettes with pens and shading them with graphite, learning how to create highlights, lowlights, depth, and roundness in both black and white and color. Once completed, students launch into the final project: creating a unique botanical wreath using those learned patterns and skills, then bringing it to life with colored pencils to create depth and visual impact.

Please note that this class requires high quality colored pencils such as Prismacolor to create the effects that are taught. Lower quality student pencils, such as Crayola and Rose Art, will not give the desired results.

The Zentangle Method® asks us to quiet our inner critic and take each part of the drawing one pen stroke at a time. The patterns are learn-as-you-go so students will be encouraged to draw along with me as they create their pattern palettes. The pattern palettes will give them a chance to practice patterns and colored pencil techniques before diving into their art pieces. For the wreath project, students will have the option of following my design or creating their own with the patterns they learned. Once the art pieces are inked, students will build on their skills, incorporating what they learned during the pattern palette creation while using color to explore interactions between the patterns in the wreath.

The repeated pattern drawing of The Zentangle Method® relaxes and calms the mind. Part of each lesson will include aspects of the method. One aspect of the method involves appreciation, students will be encouraged to share their work in the classroom and comment on their own work and that of others. I will provide public feedback as well. I will maintain a safe, positive, and respectful environment so that students feel comfortable sharing their work.

This is a self-paced class, so there are no live classes. Students will be given a series of video lessons to walk them through the patterns, technique, and design. They should expect to spend 1 - 2 hours each week on the lessons and their art work. I check on my self-paced classes on Monday afternoons (eastern time) and review work then. Students can always send me messages if they would like me to look at something sooner or if they have questions. I typically respond within one business day - sometimes much sooner.