Synopses & Reviews
Today's hectic lifestyle can leave us burned out. It's no wonder that more and more people are engaging in healing activities such as yoga, meditation, and massage. Artistic expression is also a great way to de-stress. Barron's
Zen Doodling, combines the calming benefits of meditation with the soothing effects of drawing for a unique new take on relaxation.
Zen doodling doesn't require any artistic training, and there's no need for special tools or equipment. With just a pen and a scrap of paper, many find that the simple repetitive nature of drawing patterns is spiritually rewarding and can boost creative confidence.
Here, professional illustrator and artist, Carolyn Scrace offers simple instructions and tons of beautiful examples that will inspire artists of all levels to get started in this unique art form. You'll find:
A range of exercises from simple patterns using lines and shapes, to more complex mandalas, portraits, and even unique personal alphabets that incorporate depth and colorGreat ideas for adding a Zen touch to fabric, journals, china, glass, and moreBasic lessons on color theory, light and shade, and a helpful glossary of relevant termsWith down-to-earth language and engaging design, Zen Doodling offers a distinctive approach to artistic creativity, and a method for achieving personal serenity.
Synopsis
Zen doodling is great fun, a good way to relax, and it doesn't require previous art training. Better yet, many among those who begin Zen doodling exercises find them spiritually rewarding while also a way to release latent creative talent. Zen Doodling explains how to start Zen drawing exercises, and how to use them as a path toward both artistic and spiritual development. First exercises begin with uncomplicated black-and-white line doodling, making loops and curves, preferably with eyes closed. Exercises that follow focus on simple geometric shapes--squares, rectangles, circles, and triangles--and then go on to incorporate color with magic markers, inks, or paints. Advanced exercises include combining different shapes, drawing contrasting patterns in black and white or in different colors, and then on constructing complex mandalas, sketching portraits, and designing personal alphabets. Zen doodling is a distinctive approach to artistic creativity, and a method for achieving personal serenity--exercises that everybody can try.
About the Author
Carolyn Scrace graduated from Brighton College of Art in England before working in animation, advertising, and illustrating children's books. She and her husband live in Brighton, England.