Meditative Zentangle Drawing at the USUCT SEI ArtSpace
On October 22, 2026, a creative master class in meditative drawing using the Zentangle method was held at the ArtSpace of the SEI “Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology” (Zentangle).
The participants of the meeting were students of the USUCT SEI. They explored the technique of creating compositions using repeating lines, shapes, and structured patterns. This process does not require prior artistic training: the drawing develops gradually, element by element, with attention focused not so much on a predetermined result as on the process itself.
The master class was conducted by Nataliia Volodymyrivna Zakharchuk, Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Fundamentals of Architecture, Synthesis of Arts, and Cultural Heritage of the SEI “Prydniprovska State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture” of USUST. Her teaching and creative activities are related to drawing, color theory, graphics, illustration, and contemporary art.
During the meeting, Nataliia Zakharchuk introduced the students to the principles of creating Zentangle compositions, demonstrated specific graphic techniques, and helped participants create their own works step by step.
Thick square paper, characteristic of this technique, and mostly black gel pens were used for drawing. At the same time, participants could experiment with color as well — some compositions were created using, among other things, a green pen.
Circular elements, spirals, smooth transitions, and repeating ornamental patterns appeared in the participants’ works. Despite following the same principles of the technique, each student created their own composition: the drawings differed in rhythm, combinations of shapes, and line styles, each conveying the author’s mood and inner vision in its own way.
The very process of repeating lines and patterns required concentration on the task at hand and provided an opportunity to temporarily shift attention away from academic and everyday responsibilities to a calm, creative process.
Interest in this format also has a research basis. Current studies examine Zentangle practices in connection with concentration, emotional calm, and mindfulness, while their effects continue to be a subject of scientific investigation.
This is not the first creative meeting at the ArtSpace involving Nataliia Zakharchuk. In May 2026, she held a creative collage workshop there, teaching students about layered composition, combining shapes and textures, and using collage as a tool for visual communication. In September 2025, she also conducted the “Vyryvanka” master class, during which students created works based on the image of the Tree of Life. Thus, the current event continued the creative cooperation between the USUCT SEI and the PSACEA SEI.
The ArtSpace of the USUCT SEI continues to serve as a venue for student gatherings, creative activities, and joint initiatives. Here, students can not only discover new forms of creativity but also socialize outside the classroom, spend time together, and find an opportunity to unwind after their academic workload.
We thank Nataliia Volodymyrivna for introducing students to a new creative practice, providing professional guidance, and creating a warm atmosphere during the master class, and all participants for their curiosity, openness to new experiences, and unique creations.