Bloomin' Quilts and Tangles

Merry Christmas and Peace in the New Year

2011-12-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Peace in the New Year.

Hope. Joy. Peace. These are words of the season. At Pine River, their motto is: "Hope is a Place." It is an important message in our lives today, with so many depressing outlooks - countries in war, climate change, birth defects, impersonalizing each other. Hope is what keeps us going. Knowing there is something more powerful and brighter ahead.

Then We have peace. for the world. for each other. in our own hearts. May you be at peace.

And lastly JOY. Joy to you. Joy that brings delight to your heart and makes the light shine in you. Joy.

Blessings. Deb

Winter is coming...

2011-12-21T22:46:00.000-05:00

I would like to believe that Winter is coming. It is pretty warm out there. Very few snowflakes.
Here are activities from the past month. Enjoy the photos.

Zentangles from the Pomegranate Textile Guild, November 2011

Scarborough's East Point Park on an early December day

A last flower for 2011

First Zentangle! Class of November 2011

2nd Zentangle. Class of November 2011

a beautiful recreation from baby's clothes.

Merry Christmas.

Holiday Season is Around the Corner

2011-11-30T10:16:00.000-05:00

The Holiday season is around the corner. It feels like it has snuck up on us this year. The weather has been so warm, it has not felt like winter is coming at all.

My daughter keeps reminding me it is Christmas time though. She wants me to go shopping with her, and plan holiday cookies, and gatherings. She seems to have more of the "spirit" than I this year. She even created Zentangle Christmas cards for all her friends. I must say, it makes me proud to see her using and enjoying her creative talents.

I have a few ideas for you at the Christmas time. One, take a Zentangle class and create some of a kind gifts and cards for your family and friends. You will feel blessed creating, more peaceful in the time spent tangling, and those who receive these will feel the peace and power from your creativity.
Second, you could also plan a Zentangle party with your family, hosting a Zentangle class at your house, or taking a class and sharing it with family and friends over the holidays. It will be so beneficial to all of you to receive a gift of togetherness and creativity.
Third, purchase a Zentangle kit to give as a gift to a loved one or your family, like a game.

I also created a wonderful little Doggie jacket that I can customize to your little friend. See it here:

I'm busy quilting for customers, but I still saved some time for myself. So keep a look out for a table runner I quickly sewed... coming soon.
Stay warm. Deb

November 11 2011

2011-11-16T14:48:00.000-05:00

To remember is to begin with ourselves to create peace.

The Zentangle Teachers Group encouraged each other to tangle at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, 2011 for Remembrance day. We tangled from around the world.
Here are my two tangles. One is for those who have suffered from conflict in the world; those on both sides of conflict.

The second Zentangle is in memory of Rick's mom, who passed away November 7, 2011. We tanglers are thankful for the inspiration and encouragement that his moment gave, so that we can all experience Zentangles.
My sympathy and gratitude go out to Rick's family.

Begin creating peace in your world.
deb

Inward Peace

2011-11-07T13:13:00.000-05:00

Inward Peace. What's that? Fred and I are reading a book called "The Anatomy of Peace" (by the Arbinger Institute) which provides a description of learning how to have inward peace through seeking resolutions of conflict. It is a great book. Easy to read; theories easy to understand and a good story at the same time.

Peace to me, is learning to step back from life; pause (which I like to do with Zentangles or Quilting), and begin seeing the world in a new way; and especially other People.

If you would like to learn a wonderful way of meditation and creating, come to a Zentangle seminar.

You would be welcome to join a Trunk Show and Tangle Seminar at the Pomegranate Textile Guild on November 16. Check out http://www.pomegranateguild.ca/ and go to the calendar of events. On the 19th of November I will hold a Zentangle 201 class. And Another Zentangle 101 on Wednesday November 23, from 7-8:30 p.m.

I look forward to meeting you.
deb

Oshawa Fibre Art Show October 23-30

2011-10-28T10:43:00.000-04:00

The Oshawa Fibre Art Show has some amazing works by about 10 artists, including yours truly. In fact the quilt on my header here, is live there! A main feature. This quilt was one of about 15 quilts from Canada, which toured the United States in the "World Quilt Show" produced by Mancuso Quilt Festivals.

So check out the Show in its last days. There will be a "Mad Hatter" reception on Saturday night, 7-9 p.m. where you will be able to meet the artists in the show. It should be a fun night; live music and free food and drinks.

Location: Centennial Retirement Residence, 259 Hillcroft Street (at Ritson Road), Oshawa Ontario
Time: On until Oct 30th: 10-5p.m.; everyday; FREE!

The artists also have artwork for sale, as well as fibre art supplies. Very Fun!
deb

Representational or Not?

2011-10-06T21:36:00.000-04:00

QuiltArt forum is having a question about design, focus and abstract and representational art. Here is a quilt I've been working on. Tell me what you think? does it have a style? is there a focus? Are there distracting parts of the quilt?

Lake

Thank you Zentangle Students!

2011-09-23T10:38:00.000-04:00

Thank you all my Zentangle Students! It is a joy for me to teach you. Your enthusiasm and creativity inspires me.

Recently I had held a booth at my Quilting Guild's show. I gathered a lot of interest in the Zentangles and a lot of questions about what it is. It was a helpful exercise for me.

Bloomin' Quilts and (Zen)tangle booth at Yorkshire Rose Quilting Show Sept. 17 & 18, 2011

The same day I had a birthday party Zentangle class. It was intimate and great! The group were a Mom and her grown kids. Many zen moments were shared. A they all anticipated using the Zentangle activity in numerous ways: Beautiful Wall Art, journaling, centering, inspiration for quilting pattern.

Zentangle 1

Zentangle 2

I have a Zentangle 101 class this Saturday, Sept. 24 at 1:00, at my house. I will be doing several guild presentations as well, the next being for the Pomegranate Textile Guild. November 16 http://www.pomegranateguild.ca and go to the calendar of events.
Take Care. Deb

To the Black

2011-08-29T15:30:00.000-04:00

I held a small class on Sunday August 28. We spent time practicing the basic tangles of 'crescent moon', static, purlz, and florz. Then we did a second set on the new black tiles. They are cool - but do require a bit more understanding of the effects of a thicker pen on the tile.

Take a look

1st Set Tangles

2nd Set: White on Black; actually top left is a metalic pink on black!

I will be hosting a Zentangle booth at the Yorkshire Rose Quilt Show, to be held September 17 & 18, from 10- 4 each day at the Ellesmere Community Centre, Warden and Ellesmere, 20 Canadian Road. Come visit me - and take advantage of some amazing quilts - traditional and contemporary.

deb

Pretty Planet

2011-08-15T12:47:00.000-04:00

This pretty planet
spinning through space
you're a garden, you're a harbor, you're a holy place
Golden Sun going down,
gentle blue giant spin us around
All through the night
safe 'til the morning light.

by john forster + tom chapin.

Summer 2011

2011-08-12T12:36:00.000-04:00

Summer has been a roller coaster. We have enjoyed visits to Vermont in June, where I saw my mom's home when she was single, gone to Maine and New Hampshire and breathed the fresh ocean air, Algonquin Park where we saw a teenage black bear, and our trailer on Pigeon Lake. My son joined the Pine River Institute in the outdoor leadership program to start a 9 month program to help with concurrent mental health disorders. Life has changed. Blessings will come in varied ways - i am sure.

I am getting ready for the upcoming Yorkshire Rose Quilters Guild Fall Quilt Show, September 17-18. Besides having 4 quilts in the show I will be hosting a Zentangle booth as a vendor at the show. I will be doing demonstrations at the show, so if you are interested in seeing up close what Zentangles are, come and visit me. The show will be held at the Ellesmere Community Centre, 20 Canadian Road, Toronto, Ontario.

But even sooner than that, I will be having a Zentangle 101 on Sunday, August 28, from 1:00-2:30 PM. A second level class will follow at 3:00 p.m. Join me and learn joys of tangles.

Mixed Minded Review

2011-06-13T20:51:00.000-04:00

It has been a busy month. How often do I say that?

I spent a great afternoon sharing Zentangles with a group of ladies at the Mixed Minded Conference in Kitchener. It's the first - keep you eye out for next year's 2nd annual conference.

As Karen Ellis, the organizer stated, I flew in to teach and out again later. But what happened in between was relaxing and inspiring. The class was Zentangles 101 with a twist - create a journal cover to continue at home. I shared my personal Zentangle story, and then taught the first Zentangle. We gathered the Zentangles and posted them for all to see. It was great. So different and so unique and all the same string and patterns!

Then I shared the plan to create the journal cover. I used Lyric Kinard's journal cover tutorial to make a simple cover. I had all the pieces of fabric cut out, and had brought my sewing machine to stitch them together. I planned it that way so people could learn how to make the journal cover on their own and do it at home.

Everyone created their own string on the cover, and began tangling. Such creativity!

I've had more inquiries about learning how to tangle, so check out my classes in the top right corner of the blog page. I look forward to seeing you soon.
deb

An Old Dog New Tricks

2011-05-04T22:52:00.000-04:00

You can teach an old dog new tricks. I've been having some massage done on my shoulders and front shoulder. One of the techniques the massage therapist has used is to warm the areas of the tension to break the muscles to operate in a new way. The next part is mine - I need to stretch those muscles and operate them in a new fashion so that the tension goes away. That's one example.
Another Is the ability to break ourselves out of old routines that are not helpful anymore. For instance, giving our son the interrogation about his homework - provide him with an comfortable setting to talk about his activities - if he is willing to share. The more we ask questions, the more closed the communication is. So Trying a new method of interacting. Really, we have to change some of our behaviours to survive. To develop into fuller beings... it is just hard to break those old habits.
Try to teach yourself new tricks - new ways of responding to life.
Like tangling. And so I am sharing some inspirational photos of our trip to the Dominican. Some of these are so reminiscent of some new favorite tangles! like Betweed.

I enjoyed the artwork in the hotel. The ironwork and the table legs were neat too.

Can you find the Zentangle? So cool!

Go try a new trick.
deb

A moment to stand still

2011-04-22T13:04:00.000-04:00

Whew. It's been a flurry since my last post. And I don't mean snow. I think i've gotta slow down. At least that seems to be what my body is telling me.
After such a wonderful Sunday tangling and zentangle quilting, I kicked it into high gear to get ready for a trip away with my husband and his company in the Dominican Republic. I decided to treat myself to a mani-pedicure, and had my haircut. These things I do --- too little. But the thing is, they are 1 more thing that makes me busy doing things that society says are good for you, but I'm not always convinced. I'd really rather hole up in my studio and sew pieces of fabric together, or stitch quilt designs on fabric. What serves the brain better for rest? I'm really torn.
Anyways, after shocking the hell out of my family with my new haircut (hours before we got on the plane) I dropped down in the warm weather of the Dominican. I won't say much about the resort, Gran Bahia Principe Bavaro, because I was not impressed. I will say I met some really wonderful fun-loving people that my husband works with (at NLTechnologies). It's not often you can get along with people you have never met before, who are connected to your husband through work. We also met a 2nd cousin of Fred, who lives in the Dominican, Garet and Mayra Kopeschny.

Garet, Mayra, Deb, Fred
Kopeschny

And so, while enjoying myself and letting go, I succumbed to the flu that my son had before we left. So, being sick in the Caribbean is not so bad, after all what do you have to do? but lie in the sun, and drink and eat...I just wish I had felt better longer so that I could have gone dancing until 2 a.m. again. That was a lot of fun, and I'm sure I paid for it the rest of the week.

But really, that's only part of the story. I got home, and my husband quickly pushed me to the doctors office to have my cold checked. out. Sure enough, a chest infection. Then my daughter comes home from work, not feeling well, so off she goes to the doctors. We don't know what is bothering her at first, I just know I couldn't sleep through the night for the next week, between her vomiting and me coughing... Thanks to some of my great co-workers, Joanne Opsteen, NP Extraordinaire, she helped us get Laura better. In the meantime, my son seems to think he needs to get in on the action, and sprains his ankle. UGH. so back to Joanne for a checkup, x-rays... crutches.
I think we're all getting better..... but i do need another vacation... or maybe it's just routine of everyday life, with everything running smoothly... Hmm.
So here I sit, on a Good Friday, waiting for my Paska to rise. . thinking of the pain and suffering of our Christ. Soon we will hear the sounds of "Lo in the grave he lay, Jesus My Saviour..." And I will remember that out of pain and suffering comes triumph. Glory. Passion. Praise be to God.

Classes Classes Classes!

2011-04-03T21:39:00.000-04:00

I've been busy.. with classes. I had a small class in my home in March. Enjoyable and intimate. Here are the photos of the class.

Then some dyeing. We had a surprise snow storm, and I couldn't resist doing some more snow dyeing.

Then the date finally came for a double class on Zentangles for Quilting, at the lovely studio of Elaine Theriault. I had 25 people, in two different classes. Thank you Elaine for hosting this meditational and inspiring day. We all went away with new ideas with Zentangles... including myself... sharing and creativity together inspire each of us to grow and develop new ideas.

I began the class with some basic tangles, that are easily transferable to quilting. The next set of tiles we did, began with a discussion on how Zentangles are so transferable to quilting. Then we did patterns that were all continuous line. We did the Zentangle version of a feather - and still there were panics about doing feathers. Practice Practice Practice... it makes it come easier the next time.

Enjoy...
Smiles...
Keep Tangling...

Curved Piecing

2011-03-23T16:14:00.000-04:00

Here's a twist on some of what I do. I will be teaching my first class at the Quilter's Block on Curved Piecing. I have done various presentations on photos on fabric, drawing on fabric, stabilisers, and now I will lead my first specific sewing class. Many customers have asked me to teach them how to machine quilt - and I have declined, stating that it is difficult for me to teach machine quilting when I use a long-arm, and others use a domestic. It is not the same motion, and task. In my training from other professional long-armers, and teachers, is to practice drawing. So I became a Certified Zentangle Teacher so that I can teach this easy process of drawing which can be translated into machine quilting.

But the curved piecing class (to be held after Easter) will be my first specific sewing class. I'm excited. Below is the class sample. Come learn how to easily and freely cut a curve and piece it back together. You will learn to piece without pins, and have a new method of piecing and add unique movement to your quilts.

curved piecing fun!

deb

Zentangle Anywhere!

2011-03-18T13:21:00.000-04:00

If you enjoy zentangles, you probably can think of different ways to incorporate your tangling into other crafts and art spheres. Afterall, we can find tangles almost anywhere - from hotel carpets, to the bushes in your backyard. Here is an idea I will be incorporating into my workshop at the Mixed Minded conference in Kitchener, Ontario, May 29. A notebook cover.

the raw notebook

Enjoy! deb

Relaxation

2011-03-09T23:04:00.000-05:00

Been bringing the creative energy back. My family and I spent some great time getting some fresh air and exercise on the slopes of Jay Peak, Vermont. Now back to routine. so I have been tangling in the evening, trying some different patterns, and feeling new energy arise. Enjoy the tangles.

You can boost your self esteem

2011-02-28T22:28:00.001-05:00

Yea! "one stroke at a time!" That's the Zentangle way!

I enjoyed a weekend with some enthuisiastic junior high youth. We spent time talking about who we are, what we like -- regular self understanding acts that help us also know where we are going. I'm a craft person, so I incorporated a craft activity that all would personalize and enjoy. I had them Modge-podge a jar with magazine pictures and tissue paper and fabric. They looked great, and the kids (including 7 guys) really enjoyed the activity and were proud of the job they did. In the end, the kids took home their jars with "compliments" from the others. A gift that keeps on building. So, they maybe didn't stroke the Zentangle way - but with a brush, but you can still see how breaking down a task makes all growing easier.

The next Zentangle 101 class will be held : Sunday, March 20; 2-3:30 p.m. Come enjoy an afternoon of relaxation and focus. email me at deb@kopeschny.ca to register.

If you would like to refresh your tangling and learn some more advanced tangles, Zentangle 201, Join me on March 16, Wednesday, 10-11:30 noon. Please register through deb@kopeschny.ca.

Take care..

Winter White and ..

2011-02-09T11:16:00.000-05:00

We have been enjoying so much snow this year. Yea, you heard me right. I love the snow. I've done some snow dyeing, walking in the snow, shoveling and even had to dig myself out of snowbank yesterday.. Hmmph. I am looking forward to a trip to Vermont shortly too.

There are other winter whites that have helped me too - Zentangle drawings, and white bedsheets in a hotel room. Yes. We all need breaks. I went on a short winter sew-in with the Quilter's Block. It was a restful and productive time. I enjoyed the comraderie of other quilters, and the rest of white bedsheets. I started a quilt I am creating for a friends daughter's wedding. The first wedding of a group of friends we have. Then I did some freehand sewing on a piece I am trying to create for the Sacred Threads quilt show. I finished off with a crazy combination of kaffe fassett fabrics in a simple snowball pattern. Now none of these are done, so I won't post them now.

The Zentangle drawings have been a great respite for me as well. The small simple free form drawings allow me to be creative, simply, and relax. And there is much need for that lately. The Zentangles are not demanding, there are no expectations, and whatever comes - is beautiful.

I will be holding another Zentangle 101 class on Sunday, February 13, 2-4 p.m. You are welcome to join me and others in learning this simple technique. kids and adults and seniors, are all welcome. Let me know if you would like to join me, deb@kopeschny.ca

Mixed Minded-May 27-29

2011-01-19T16:49:00.000-05:00

Allo! Guess What! the Art Studio in Kitchener, Ontario has invited me to participate in their conference coming May 27-29, 2011. I will be teaching a class on Zentangles with an additonal project. For more information check out: http://www.mixedminded.ca/ . Sign-up and experience exciting inspirational art in Kitchener!

How's this for a Zentangle? It is on a quilt I created called "Pink is it". It was shown at the Oshawa Fibre Art Show, 2010.

Take Care. Growing.

Happy New Year! Here's to Growth

2011-01-11T13:11:00.000-05:00

Today is the 3rd day of 2011. On New Year's Eve, my friends and I excitedly marked the beginning of a new year. 2010 was full of peaks and valleys. 2011 is welcome to bring on new ventures and hopefully more peaks than valleys.
As I was looking back through pictures from the past month, I realised how much has happened in so little a time, and despite challenges, the time has been one of growth. Without trying new ventures, nothing is gained. It is with learning new skills and experiencing challenges that we growth. I don't want to remain stagnant. And I don't believe I have. So here is to more growth in the New Year. As many Quiltart forum pals share their word for the New Year - here is mine "growth."
Here are photos of the last days of 2010. Enjoy!

Class November

Zentangle Tree on Christmas Card, by Laura Kopeschny

Zentangle on Satin with Thread : fabric is 6" square

Oshawa Fibre Art Show Nov. 20 - Dec. 5

2010-11-17T12:29:00.000-05:00

I have been busy getting ready for the Oshawa Fibre Art Show. The charity that the event will donate funds to and raise awareness for is the Canadian Diabetes Association. Each artist provides a piece for a silent auction. The piece that I will donate is a Zentangle on Silk. Come to check out this wonderful show of Fibre Artists in the GTA. This Free show is on everyday for the next 2 weeks, from 10-5 p.m. For more information check out http://www.bluemoonfabricarts.com/

I have 4 pieces on display, including more Zentangles on Cloth. I have been hosting the Tangle Club and Zentangle classes 101, 201 and looking forward to 301! Also a birthday party! who knew! lots of fun.
Tangle on in stitches!
deb

Autumn

2010-10-20T14:17:00.001-04:00

Autumn. it is one of my favorite times of year. hence why I got married in Fall. I also had my son in the fall. Autumn is a strange beautiful part of the year. everything is dying. the leaves change colour and fall off the trees. the cooler temperatures mark the end of summer. we begin anticipating the long cold winter. it doesn't feel like time for celebrating.
Yet there is a cool freshness to the air. there is no heaviness in the air. the sun seems strong yet not overpowering. the plants are dying yet there is a new beauty to them. with less outdoor activity there is more time to quilt. draw. socialize inside with friends.

   Autumn is about change. how many of us welcome change? Change is what inspires us. change challenges us. without change life would be the same. we would continue in the same way we have done in the past. we remain comfortable. life is easy. we assume what will happen next.
  We need change. change is stressful. but change is necessary for growth. with change we are forced to make new decisions, we step out of our comfortable areas. change enables us to respond in new ways. change makes us learn new aspects of ourselves. there have been many changes for me in the last year. I did not welcome them. my son has gone through many changes, because of mental health- and the family with him. Yet without this challenge, he would not have found more about who he wants to be - in life, with friends, as a career. He has learned to stand up for himself, and to recognize his own weaknesses and strengths. But so too the family - we have learned to listen more to each other, to recognize that talking and conversing and arguing is okay- letting it out is the more important role right now.
   I have begun to teach and share Zentangles. I have learned that I love sharing with others. I have acknowledged that art can be a powerful tool and healer. I have learned that I have a power that I did not know I had. And I must embrace it and not abuse it.
  Change will continue to happen. It is how we respond that makes a difference to us and those around us. How will you respond? in the meantime, zentangle a response!

Classes

2010-10-12T17:28:00.000-04:00

Contact me to find the right class for you. I can also create a class to fit your needs.
deb@kopeschny.ca

Freedom

2010-10-05T12:59:00.001-04:00

Freedom - what does that mean to you? As I was driving to work the other day - to my desk job, as they say, i was listening to one of my favorite singers; Janis Joplin (did you know she died at 27?). Her song "me and bobby mcgee" was on. The words resonated with me,

"Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose,

Nothing, that's all that Bobby left me, yeah,

But feeling good was easy, Lord, when he sang the blues,

Hey, feeling good was good enough for me, hmm hmm,

Good enough for me and my Bobby McGee"

Freedom - all attachments gone - just happiness. I think of jealousy, our feelings and beliefs of inadequacy, illness and pain, and realise that much of this is just ourselves wanting more, believing we need to have - in order to be happy. Jesus said to the rich young man, "after following the ten commandments, you must sell all your things and give them to the poor, and then you will have everlasting life".

Happiness and freedom is not necessarily the ability to do what we want, to have what we want, to make our own decisions - Freedom is the ability to say "I am complete with God, as I am now."

Zentangles are freedom too, while working within the process, you can create without any fear of rules. There are no expectations to the result - it is all good.

may you live in freedom, deb

Today is a new day

2010-09-29T12:55:00.000-04:00

Have you enjoyed the wonderful fall weather? We've biked, gone on walks, sat by the fire. It is a nice continuance of the summer relaxation.

But I've also been full steam ahead with Tangle classes, cooking for work, quilting, and supporting family and church. I always find myself very busy. Hmm.

I have had enquiries from people in North part of New York state, London, On., and Waterford, On. I hope that I can accommodate these requests for experiencing the art of Zentangles. If you are in these areas, let me know and I will be able to add you to the contacts for these area venues.

As for recent class works, here are some great Zentangles from the latest class at the A.M. Milton Gallery. Wonderful work and excitement.

As well I have completed a quilting project I started in June. The Sewing Machine Factory Outlet referred a lady to me, for possibly creating quilts out of her mother's clothes. Although a task like this is often tedious, I have a soft spot for supporting people through grief. In the meantime, this ladies brother also died. And so I incorporating his clothes into the quilts as well. I tried to create a feeling of brightness in the center to express the hope that we can feel despite the grief that often accompanies the "passing" of a close person.
Comments are appreciated.

enjoy your moments, you'll never see them again.

Fun Inspirational Classes

2010-09-24T10:31:00.000-04:00

I have had two excellent classes. the first class was with some newbies who have wondered what Zentangles are about. It was an intimate small group, which was relaxing and exciting at the same time. Here are their tangles.

Next post will have the next set of photos from my group of artists at the Milton A.M. gallery who zentangled into the zone.
Tangle on.
deb

Classes

2010-09-20T20:25:00.000-04:00

Greetings friends
My next class will be at the a.m. Gallery in the Milton Mall. The class will be for advanced Tanglers, on Sept. 22, from 7-9 p.m. I will be sharing some new tangles and we will look at breaking down the patterns around us to include in our work.
If you would like to join us, email me at deb@kopeschny.ca

On October 1st, I will host a Zentangle for Quilters class. We will explore practicing tangles, and how this will help your quilting. More ideas around where you can use tangles, and transferring your new ideas into your quilting will be shared.

I look forward to having you join me. Zentangles will help expand your creativity at the same time as reducing your blood pressure.. isn't that cool?!
Here are some photos of tangles from 1 of my classes.

Create on

You are power!

2010-09-01T10:18:00.002-04:00

Do you know that time between awakefulness and sleep? Well that is the best brainstorming time for me. My mind drifts from one thing to the next. This time is when my quilt problems and design dillemmas are solved. This is when I realise what my next focus will be, either in my business or in my personal life. This is the time when I realise my potential.

Last night was no exception. I have been reading "Anatomy of the Spirit" by Caroline Myss, on recognizing the connection between illness and our own physical, emotional and spiritual energies. The most recent discussion has been thinking about the "second chakra" which is the description of our personal power. This discussion has been so connected to one of my all time favorite quotes from Nelson Mandela, which is:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

And so, in my half awake mind I made this wonderful connection of how we live must recognize our own power. How often do we recognize that we have "power"? How often do we acknowledge that we are an energy being that carries that positive or negative energy to everything thing we do and participate in - whether it is discussing how to raise our children, or standing in line at the grocery store. Once we acknowledge this power, we can realise how much we affect. Once again, we are usually shy about what we can affect - how can I really change the atmosphere in my house? in my workplace?how much do I really have power over? Is the world affecting me? or me affecting the world? But really - our energy affects EVERYTHING. We have immeasurable power and energy. Even the air we breathe. If I accept that how I be affects others (and myself), that I have a power, unspoken and subconscious - that can change everything around us, then I can realise the enormous power and responsibility I have to consciously positively be.

Once again, acknowledge you are power - Live knowing your power - Live placing all your acts with Intention.

This also is well expressed in Zentangles. In Zentangles, we sit down, not knowing what potential might happen, but knowing it is there. Accepting it. and placing every stroke on the paper with intention. Like in life, knowing that each stroke will affect the next. And realising that I have the power to place that stroke, and to participate in life and in my own power, and experience with purpose and responsibilitiy.

Here is one of my recent intentional drawings.

Enjoy!
p.s. Next Zentangle 101 workshop will be on Saturday, September 18, 2010, from 1-3p.m. at 4 Manorwood Road.
Next Advanced Zentangle workshop will be on Wednesday, September 22, 2010, from 7-9p.m. at the Art Gallery, in the Milton Mall, Milton Ontario. Let me know if you would like to join us.

Summer, Advanced Class

2010-08-05T13:14:00.000-04:00

Greetings, Still around!
I have had an Advanced Tangle Class, as well as another Zentangle 101. They have all been well accepted and a joy to teach. I'll just provide some samples from the Zentangle Advanced class.

Of course, i developed the class according to what was requested. I focused on more advanced tangles to draw, develop and finding "strings", the philosophy of strings. We talked about paper, shading, drawing on fabric; I had requested the participants to bring a favorite photo and fabric, and we dissected some possible tangles from these. I had some great new photos that my daughter took while in London, England. (Thanks Laura).

Here is a great tangle from a lady's purse.

I gave them some hints on small additions to your tangles that add that little extra which provides more interest, and depth to the Zentangle. Some of the participants brought works that they have been doing, including making cards, drawing on photos with the tangles, etc. It was a great morning. I enjoyed meeting these artists and hope they had fun too.

Here is my daughter, Laura's, Zentangle on a rock. No instruction from me! She is a natural tangler.

And here are some great photos from our trip to The Pinery Provincial Park in Grand Bend, Ontario. What a beautiful place.

Sun setting over Lake Huron

Moon rising over Pinery Provincial Park

See you Soon!

First Class Report

2010-07-12T11:27:00.000-04:00

Oh it was a great class! The nine people who came were very intent on learning the tangles. They were excited to be there and very focused. After the first tangle, they were like little kids..."Can we do another one? Can we?"

At first I was nervous, but once I began talking about Zentangles, my passion came through and it felt so natural to be sharing what I feel is a great technique and life builder.
Here are the two class tangles we did:

I tried to do tangles that were not in the regular kit, and yet simple enough that they would be able to advance to standard tangles on their own. As you can see each person's tangles were unique to their own style - but so cool as mosaic together.

Reminder that I will be having my Zentangle Club Class on Thursday, July 22 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Let me know if you would be interested in attending. The cost is $15.00 per person, which includes some accessories, and several new tangles to learn. 416.431.9980.

I will be in the London, Grand Bend Area on "vacation" from July 19-22, if any Southwestern Ontario people would be interested in a course during that time. LET ME KNOW ASAP! I know of a location in London where I could host a class. deb@kopeschny.ca

In addition, My next Zentangle 101 class will be August 4, 2010, from 10:00-12 noon at the Quilter's Block, 2861 St. Clair Avenue East. Cost is $40.00.
Hope to see you Soon!

Excitement!

2010-07-07T16:46:00.000-04:00

Greetings friends! I am getting so excited about my class on Saturday, July 10 at Quilters Block, 2861 St. Clair Avenue East!

I have recovered from visits, and am saying adios to my family - the kids are off on their adventures! so I will be able to concentrate on my business.

Last week - July 1st, to be exact, I celebrated Canada Day in a very public way.... I tangled out in the Sun! At the park! My friend at the Quilters Block had rented a booth at the East York Park Celebration and allowed me to share my tangles there. People love to watch what you are doing! there was a regular stream of people watching, and asking questions. Although I didn't get much initial response, I gave out a lot of cards. All of us tanglers know, that it just takes a few people drawing and it catches on real quick.
Here are some of the large size tangles I drew in the park.

I have also been working on incorporating my tangles into my quilts. Here are some photos of tangles I have drawn on fabric and as a larger piece, which I will then quilt on.... I hope you enjoy!

What's in the name "in-laws"?

2010-06-22T12:53:00.000-04:00

What an odd title for a quilting page. Hmm. and Hmm again.

By marriage I have received a set of parents. This is not new, this has been happening for over 22 years. About twice a year, my in-laws come to visit our household in Toronto, which is a mere 1 1/2 hours from their residence in Niagara on the Lake. But really, it is a token distance that keeps us at a decent space from one another. Not that I don't like my in-laws, but rather, I need my own space. I am from a totally different style of living. After all, I did marry my opposite.
For instance, while I value a clean house, I don't rate it as next to godliness. For me there is a lot more to living than making sure I need to be able to eat off my own floor. If the kitchen gets wiped down once a day, I'm happy. If there is food on the table at 5pm, or 6 or 7 or 8 - well, I am happy. If my laundry gets done once per week - or once every two weeks- I am happy. If my fridge gets cleaned out twice a year (when she comes to visit) - I am happy. You get my drift.
Today, my in-laws will be coming for their bi-annual visit. I always need to remind myself that it is only temporary. Hold your tongue. Smile and be appreciative. And this brings me to the phrase "in-laws". What has that got to do with marriage? Couldn't a better term have been created to explain this relationship? For me it is too close to "law" as in police, or... law abiding citizen. As in my in-laws are coming to check up on me again. The law is coming. Okay, so my emotions are taking over and making extreme connections to these familial relations, who really are not the law, but just feel like it to me. How insecure!!!

So what would a better description of the relationship be? We can really break it down and start with: parents by marriage, parents of my husband, parents to my husband, people who see me as a surrogate daughter, people who want to parent me along with their son, people who don't know how to let their son grow up!! okay that's hitting way too close to home. Did I say that? Do I want to call them Mom and Dad? I know that is how they see themselves to me, and truthfully, they have been parents to me, as well as my own parents. Really, I am an adult like them, who have had significant life events that have shaped my personality and wisdom. It is time that I share with them the strength of my character, and request verbally and non verbally their respect. It is time to grow up.

And how will I maintain this composure? Why Zentangle or quilt - of course. After all, that is living!

Happy Dance!

2010-06-21T09:28:00.000-04:00

It has been quite a week. At my dayjob, I organized, for the 15th time, our Annual General Meeting. It is becoming tedious. So it was a taxing week.

But really... the weather was great... and on Friday I found out 1 of my quilts will be in the World Quilt Show, travelling to the Mancuso Managements' 4 quilt shows; Manchester, NH, Philadelphia, PA, San Diego, CA, and Florida.

That is my Happy Dance. After submitting works and getting rejection, it has felt like, okay, my work satisfies me;;; but is it really art if the quilt world does not recognize it? So Finally - confirmation! Now I will plan to visit my work with my husband at one of the closer venues. More plans. I like to plan. Part of the whole experience is the planning and anticipation!

Onward!

Zentangle Workshops

2010-06-11T20:56:00.000-04:00

I had my first dry run at my place of work. 6 people participated, and more would like to come. Although most were interested but skeptical about the activity, it turned out to be refreshing for all who participated.

As well I have planned two dates for workshops in the next month. On July 10th, 2010 I will be holding my first Zentangle 101 class. This will be in the morning from 10:00-12noon at thequiltersblock.ca which is located 1 block west of Victoria Park Avenue, on St. Clair Avenue East.

I will begin an ongoing class for people who have been tangling already. This will start on the 24th of June, at 7pm at the same location. The Quilter's Block.

I am locating other venues, so if you are interested, or even not from the Toronto area, I would be happy to arrange a workshop near you. email me deb@kopeschny.ca and I would be happy to arrange a workshop.

As I look back on my time in the training with photos of wonderful people, I miss them.
But as I bring this treasure, Zentangling to others, I realise how powerful a tool it is. See you soon? Hope So!
Peace

It's a beauty to behold!

2010-06-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

We have had such nice weather. I have been cleaning out my sewing room and sitting outside. What a combination. I finished two projects last week, 1 a mending job - don't do much of those! and a Quilt creation for a baby at our church.

The couple - pre baby- have been into nature, hiking, mountains, etc. so what better way to starting teaching him about nature?!

To the Tangles! did you notice the tangles in last posts pictures? how about the sticks on the beach? that reminds me of hollibaugh! The patterns are everywhere!

Peace

The Ocean

2010-05-27T15:50:00.000-04:00

Sunset on the Bay off Goat Island

I have fallen in love with the ocean again. It's the second time i've been there this year! to an ocean that is. There is something different from the East coast than the gulf, or carribbean.

I think I have some of the my best memories of childhood at the ocean, usually North of Boston. It was one of the few "vacations" we did growing up.

Sachuest Bay at Sunrise

I had fun photographing the ocean and it's beauty.

Point Judith

Back ;;;

2010-05-25T13:14:00.000-04:00

I had such a great week by myself. And it was great to get home to my family too.

I attended the Certified Zentangle Teachers training in Whitinsville Massachusetts for 3 days. It was a Great experience. We were housed in a mansion built in 1862, which had gorgeous woodworking detail and stature. 57 people came from all over North America and 1 from Holland. The sharing and energy was wonderful. The calm - from the tangling - and from people's presence was amazing.

After the 3 days I spent about 1 24hour period touring Newport Rhode Island. I enjoyed my time just walking the streets, visiting the Atlantic Ocean, and eating supper by the sunset. It felt so freeing to be able to make my own decisions about when to stop, where to go, what to eat. I loved the taste of the salt on my lips after walking outside, the smell of the ocean, the sound of the waves crashing onto the rocks, and the sound of the waves kissing the beach sand. All of the birds in Newport - the warm sun... the ocean breeze.. . It was a beautiful debriefing after spending 3 days creating, and learning. .. then to go and experience God's creating. Ahh...

I look forward to sharing Zentangles with you... It will bring you peace and energy too.

From my church book

2010-05-04T08:45:00.000-04:00

I have been drawing and sketching in church for quite some time. I find that church is very conducive to feeling the creative presence. And it also helps me listen to the sermon, scripture, etc.

Today I have included some of these Zentangles. Drawing is such a meditative process. Or it can be. I encourage you to take a small piece of paper. Draw a leaf shape or a circle. Dissect it a couple of times, and fill in the remaining openings with geometric patterns. As you can ssee from my drawings, it can be as simple as straight lines following the curve of the shape. It can be dots. It can be repetitive same or different size circles.

Try a little meditative drawing. It will help you focus in anything else you do.

p.s. Can you see some Quilting Patterns?! I do!

Quilting? Zentangles? Where is the connection?

2010-04-14T10:01:00.000-04:00

As I began creating this blog, it was mainly about quilting. So why the addition of Zentangles? Well, I began "zentangling" 2 years again, when I read a fellow quilters blog who zentangled. She is from New Hampshire. I had been drawing and sketching already for several years. I used the continuous sketching to help my quilting, as I am a long-arm quilter. My specialty is freestyle quilting which is a continuous line drawing on quilts. I love to do this. By using the Zentangle technique I am able to enhance my style, skills and design possiblities when I am quilting. It is a natural spill-over.

This quilt is an excellent example of how I use many of the different styles and line drawing I practice while Zentangling. The heading of my blog, is another example of this drawing.

As I draw, I realise so many areas where art is helpful in my daily life. Mental Health is an important topic and interest of mine. I hope to use this art form to help others increase their self-esteem and encourage others to be the Creative Being that God has called us to be - in all aspects of our lives. Draw On!

Zentangle Examples

2010-04-13T14:10:00.000-04:00

Onward to share what I've been working on! Yes here are some photos of my vacations.

Here are some items that I have been working on while my ankle has been sore. There must have been a reason I got that?!!!

I look forward to sharing more. And I look forward to teaching after I get certified in May!

Zentangle, CZT

2010-04-12T11:14:00.000-04:00

Greetings, I have been busy - but not on this site! Besides a trip to Vermont skiing, another trip to Mexico, sunbathing, and putting together two pieces for entering into shows... i've sprained my ankle, and did my first presentation on Zentangles.

Zentangles. A great inspirational, relaxing and creative pastime hitting the creativity world. It is a phenominal new method of drawing. By completing small pieces of art with simple strokes, you both relax, and release creativity.

In May I will become a Certified Zentangle Teacher. and I will be able to teach this fabulous technique to many different types of people. Please see the Zentangle site: http://www.zentangle.com/ for more information. I want to bring this to arts and crafts people but also health and community members. It is meant to encourage new creative expression, but also helpful in enhancing the mental health of all. I look forward to bringing you examples of this helpful skill.
Blessings. and Draw on.

Some More Photos

2010-02-08T11:46:00.000-05:00

Greetings,
here are some more photos of the quilts that were put together at the Quilt retreat.

This piece began as a play time to do something with those colourful kaffe fassett fabrics; Hence why they all come together so well. The colours used with each other just make the leafs pop. As is my style, I just thought, "oh this would look nice" and started cutting, and then appliqued. Then thought "oh, there needs to be some focus..." It turned out well, despite my lack of planning. And as always, it is great to get feedback and support from fellow quilters.

This past weekend, I was away again, for a visit and hockey tournement attendance in London, Ontario. My quilting buddy, Beth; took us to some amazing fabric shops in the outskirts of London. Needless to say, my other quilting buddy, Carolyn, and I were in awe with the different fabrics. Two shops and we were done for. Our eyes and brain swimming with ideas and overload with colourful fabrics. And of course our wallets empty. Thanks Beth for a great visit. We will have to come again.

And the Hockey? well, it was great that our midget boys, ended there single A hockey career making it to the Semi-Finals. One of the best hockey games I have seen. There is nothing like just playing the game for the fun of it.

See you soon!

Finally Quilt photos!

2010-02-04T16:26:00.000-05:00

Yea, Yea, this is a quilting blog. not just a reflections blog.

So here you have it. I am posting some photos from the recent quilting retreat I went on.

In the beginning I was grumbling about packing all my stuff up to go away. Why can't I just retreat to my own corner and have time to myself? Then i won't have to cart all this fabric and thread and ... you know stuff to some place else. I was not looking forward to it.

But all you quilters know, that life gets in the way, and often we fail to dedicate ourselves to what we want to do most. Most of us are puritanical hardworkers, who feel guilty for doing something we enjoy so much. So protestant ethics aside, I packed my goods and headed off to a weekend with my fabric and machine, and fellow quilters.

Despite falling ill, I was able to focus and complete a few tops that have been mulling about in my head. These are experiments in colour and creative play. Now I just need to dedicate time to quilting them.
!

Enjoy the photos

Life philosophy for me

2010-02-03T09:32:00.000-05:00

A course in miracles. Have you read this? Heard of it? I began reading the "chapters and verses" but on push from some friends, we have begun reading the Lessons. I have not kept up to read the appropriate lesson for each day (we began with lesson 1 on January 1), but the process is extremely rewarding none the less.

This book promotes rethinking how we view the world, in a way to bring real salvation to us. Don't let the "salvation" word scare you. We have so much history, baggage and perceptions that we bring to everything that we see, do, and interrelate. The course in miracles attempts to heal us from these preconceived ideas and open us up to real life and wellness in mind, body and spirit.

As an artist, this is a very rewarding process. It helps me see and experience life in a more open and awe-inspiring way. This in turn helps me create. Which to me, is what we are here on earth for. To create alongside the most unbelieveable creator.

See something new today. See something a-fresh.

Items for Bucket List

2009-12-29T15:10:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the movie the Bucket List? I guess it was about 2 - 3 years ago. It is worth viewing again. But here are some of my items that need to be mentioned on my bucket list. These are things I have talked about with family and or just kept to myself.

Visit my husband's families' origins in the Ukraine
take the VIA Rail across Canada
Put my feet in the water of the Pacific Ocean - American and Canadian waters
Put my feet in the water of the Atlantic Ocean - Canadian waters
Take a quilting class from Laura Wasilowski
Take a quilting class from Carol Taylor
Hike the Appalachian Trail
Visit Relatives in Arizona and Alabama
Learn how to be a Henna Artist
Teach Zentangling
Hold my grandchild (I hope I get at least 1)

Well that's a good start. In the next year I hope to expand my art quilting. That would be the main career goal for 2010.
Personally - I want to experience more "presence."

2009-12-28T19:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my Blog, Bloomin' Quilts. This is also the name for my Quilting company, Bloomin' Quilts. and while I will post mainly quilt related info, it is difficult for me to separate my quilting from what happens in my head and in my life.

Please join me as I grow and learn, and hopefully we can learn from each other.

Happy Quilting.