Hi! I’m Karyn Derby, a Certified Zentangle Teacher, and I’m so happy you’re here!
I discovered the Zentangle Method in 2018 while scanning my sister’s bookshelf for anything new and interesting. There, I found two beautifully-written and illustrated books about Zentangle— something I’d never heard of before— and I was instantly intrigued. I have always enjoyed producing art of one sort or another, but here was an art form that was meditative and relaxing and that made it possible for anyone, no matter their artistic background or perceived ability, to create beautiful art.
I enjoyed producing Zentangle artwork so much over the years since then that in April of 2023, I flew to Rhode Island and participated in Zentangle, Inc.’s 40th Certified Zentangle Teacher seminar. I came away from that experience with a renewed appreciation for the Zentangle method as well as quite a bit of knowledge about how to teach it to others. I genuinely enjoy helping those who think they cannot draw to produce artwork they can be proud of, and it’s an amazing feeling to see their astonishment at their own accomplishments.
These days, I can often be found with a pen and a tile, tangling away while I’m barely aware of the passage of time. I also love to view the Zentangle creations of others for inspiration, take classes, participate in group tangling retreats, and chat with fellow Zentangle artists. I create other artwork too— I’ve recently discovered a love for fine art collage and also for linocut. But I frequently return to the calm and relaxation that I know awaits when I immerse myself in creating a Zentangle piece.