Dear Rick and Maria,
I'd like to start this email by saying:
You have changed my life!
There is just no other way to say it - as dramatic as that may sound. [smiles]
I have a degenerative neurological disorder and live with full body nerve pain, so my usual artistic passions (calligraphy and illumination/gilding) are not things I can do easily or often. Zentangle, however, I can pick up and do on any day, at any time. I carry a square, high quality, art paper journal, Pigma Microns and a 2B pencil in my bag everywhere I go. In fact, doctors' and specialists' waiting rooms are actually Fun now - for the first time in decades! I've also been approached numerous times by total strangers who see what I'm up to - whether in a waiting room, or resting on a sidewalk bench, or sitting at the cafe - they are inexorably drawn to come and speak with me and talk with me about my artwork. How wonderful to make these random and rewarding connections, particularly in a society where people are increasingly keeping to themselves... eye-locked and ear-locked into their electronic devices to the point of almost total isolation from the world happening around them! :-)
So: Thank you, thank you, thank you, for giving me back my ART!
I started doing little Zentangle 'balls' just to try out different patterns in between doing my University studies (I study at home online: 25 minutes of study, 10 minutes break & repeat etc.). Doing Zentangles, during my 10 minute breaks, gives me something entirely "other" to focus on. I immediately disconnect from my study material. And ten minutes later, when I'm back, nose-deep in my text books, I can concentrate even more effectively as a result of giving my mind meditative 'time out' Zentangling.
VERY Exciting News from my Zentangled journey so far:
- I have two commissions
- A friend who owns an art gallery and has seen a little of my Zentangle work is happy to consider exhibiting my Zentangle work in his gallery - as soon as I've built up a substantial enough portfolio. He's very enthusiastic!
- And, yes... even more good news. I've recently submitted a Zentangle piece for publication to be published later on this year.
Now, if you're wondering how long I've had my Zentangle Kit? I haven't yet!!
So imagine where my journey will lead once my kit arrives. [grin]
I haven't been able to afford to purchase a kit yet. But, with the two commission in the pipeline, I've decided that I'll use part of this week's budget to finally order my kit - which I've just done, right now! <happy bounce>
So, in summary, Thank you both!
Namaste, --K
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Your welcome, "K" and thank you for your wonderful letter.
Oh yes, here's some images that accompanied K's order.
Thanks again, K!
