Not only is it morally questionable, but legally too: one cannot copyright ideas, methods or systems, and there is clearly not sufficient difference between Zentangles and any other doodling and abstract art to warrant a patent. Bottom line: It's lovely that the Zentangle method has helped people be creative, but it could soon be hindering the creativity of others. When other artists using doodling as an abstract art form start finding themselves slapped with a lawsuit for patent infringement, that lack of care could be contributing to injustice. Just be aware that there are some 'cons' along with the 'pros' before you support them by spending money on the materials, books, and programs. If you, as an individual, don't care about patents, that's fine.

A common theme is 'I discovered my creativity' coupled with 'I don't care about that patent stuff', which is fair enough. There's no doubt that the Zentangle process, with education on mindfulness combined with relaxing mark-making, is calming and beneficial, and for those who enjoy organized systems and being part of a group, the 'Avon Lady model' provides a comfortable structure.Ī lot of people love Zentangle. Zentangles have a certain homogeneity for a reason.

What this process risks losing, however, is the artist's own, intuitive sense of design and expressive mark making. It is quite similar to craft activities like photo scrapbooking, with 'Creative Memories (TM)' doing the groundwork of design, or quilting with a readymade kit. For some people, this can be a marvelous stepping-stone to creativity, especially given how daunting so much of our traditional art teaching methods can be. They help to reduce anxiety around making art, from choosing materials to getting started with simple templates and a ready-made library of patterns to copy. Despite some questions about the Zentangle concept, the convenient 'pre-packaged' ideas and materials suit some people well.

Doodle art drawing