Toronto Star Article - Zen Quilter

It has been an eventful week, and I'm glad I've been able to share it with you. First the go-ahead for my research; and then the article in Toronto Star / StarTouch on my journey as a 'Zen Quilter.'

The article is a succinct explanation of how both Quilting and Zentangle has influenced my life. We are all on a journey, and I hope to inspire you to include creative activity in your journey. 

Quilts

I have also been busy pulling a quilt together for a local Fundraiser. The Toronto United Mennonite Church has a building and supportive housing project called The Aurora House; which will provide housing for victims of human trafficking.  

Here is my quilt Floral Blues, which I donated.

Art and Creativity are important in the human journey. Art and creativity heal through the process of expression and integration of experiences, thoughts and emotions. Art and creativity provide a means of relaxation and meditation. Art and creativity develop social and community bonds by providing a visual means of connection and understanding. Art and creativity provide enhancement and enjoyment to life through providing and experience of beauty, vibrancy and stimulation. 

How about trying some today?

Tangle On!

Deb

http://startouch.thestar.com/screens/  "Life Section: Do It Yourself Revolution."

Saturday, September 26, 2015: The Toronto Star.

• 
  

THE ZEN QUILTER

The meditative creativity of Zentangle adds a twist to an old art

ANDREA GORDONSTAR TOUCH

Deb Kopeschny’s handmade quilts do not begin with a piece of fabric or a needle and thread. They start long before that, in a meditative moment when creativity and spirit collide and her pencil captures it on a small square of paper.

Research, Zentangle Classes, Iamthediva challenge 236

Whoa! I have received word that my research proposal and my ethics review of my research proposal have been approved. It's been a wait. But I am rolling on. The next step in the masters thesis process is to collect my data. So If you would like to know more about my research study, I would be happy to talk to you. As an overview, my research study is part of my art therapy training I am required to do research for a thesis. I have been teaching Zentangle® for 5 years and I have seen its powerful effects on participants. In my thesis I will continue to explore the effects and experience of Zentangle®. The research question to be explored is: “What is the phenomenological experience of a mindful art activity, like Zentangle®, and its implications for art therapy?”

The first of the data collection will be a focus discussion group in October regarding a Zentangle experience. 

If you have never experienced Zentangle before, I invite you to attend a class Monday, September, 28 at the Harmony Community Centre in Oshawa, Ontario. For more information please see the link. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/learn-to-zentangle-create-your-own-coloring-sheets-tickets-17995374650 

I have not done the diva challenge in a while - due to practicum, etc.... let's just say Life?!! But here is challenge 236. I used it as a way to calm down from my excitement and work in planning for my research ... practicing what I preach.

Can you tell what I tangled on? One of my cookbooks, the Mennonite Community Cookbook. I was paging through and noticed some cook Pennsylvania Dutch sketches; they were my inspiration. Have you ever heard of Vinegar Candy? That's called making use of what you have. Another inspiration. And art-making - Zentangle drawing is turning simple lines and shapes into beautiful art.

Tangle On!

Deb