Art Therapy

Mandala Zentangle / Art Therapy

In this course, you will explore the therapeutic art of Mandala and Zentangle drawing techniques to promote mindfulness and creativity. You’ll learn how to use these artistic methods as tools for relaxation, self-expression, and stress relief. With weekly lessons, practical activities, and a final creative project, you will build your skills and confidence in creating intricate and beautiful art pieces that promote inner peace and well-being.

Details

Duration: 6 Weeks
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Format: Live video lessons, downloadable worksheets, interactive Q&A, final project

About the course

Key Points

In this course, you will:

Learn the basics of Mandala and Zentangle drawing techniques.
Understand the therapeutic benefits of art and how it can improve your mental well-being.
Explore various patterns and designs used in Mandala and Zentangle art.
Develop your own unique artistic style and use it as a form of personal expression.
Complete a final project that combines what you’ve learned into a meaningful, personalized Mandala or Zentangle creation.

Required Materials

Drawing paper (preferably 8×8 inches or larger)
Fine-tip pens or markers
Pencils and erasers
Ruler (optional)
Colored pencils or watercolor (optional for final touches)

Course Lessons

Week 1: Introduction to Mandalas & Zentangle Basics

Topics:

History and significance of Mandala art.
Introduction to Zentangle and its patterns.
Basic Mandala shapes and how to start your first design.
Key principles of Zentangle drawing: repetition, structure, and mindfulness.

Practical Activity:

Create your first simple Mandala design using basic patterns.

Week 2: Exploring Mandala Design Elements

Topics:

Symmetry and balance in Mandala art.
Creating geometric shapes and designs within a Mandala.
Using repetition and variation to add depth to your designs.

Practical Activity:

Design a Mandala focusing on geometric patterns and symmetry.

Week 3: Zentangle Patterns and Techniques

Topics:

Deep dive into popular Zentangle patterns (e.g., aura, flux, and crescents).
How to layer and combine patterns for complex designs.
Techniques for adding texture and contrast to your artwork.

Practical Activity:

Draw several Zentangle-inspired patterns and combine them into one piece.

Week 4: Therapeutic Benefits of Art Therapy

Topics:

Exploring the therapeutic benefits of Mandala and Zentangle art.
Using art as a mindfulness and stress-relief tool.
The psychology of color and its impact on emotions.

Practical Activity:

Create a Mandala with an intention for relaxation or healing.

Week 5: Combining Mandala & Zentangle Styles

Topics:

How to combine Mandala and Zentangle styles for a harmonious design.
Personalizing your artwork with unique patterns and symbols.
Techniques for infusing your artwork with personal meaning and intention.

Practical Activity:

Create a hybrid Mandala-Zentangle artwork that reflects your personal style.

Week 6: Final Project & Reflection

Topics:

Review of techniques and methods learned in previous weeks.
Preparing for the final project.
Reflecting on the artistic journey and therapeutic benefits of the course.

Final Project:

Complete a final Mandala or Zentangle artwork that integrates everything you've learned. This can be an abstract design, a meaningful symbol, or a self-expression piece.