A relaxed way of realistic drawing

Everyone can draw, even without any talent or experience! When I discovered the 'Zen' approach to drawing, I started to draw in a very spontaneous and effortless way. It made me let go of my rational thinking and perfectionalism by accepting mistakes and failures. Funnily enough this change in approach and mindset resulted in prettier and lighter drawings, ranging from simple sketches to more detailed drawings with a 'heart and soul'. Most important of all: I found this way of drawing lots of fun! As I started to teach others how to draw in this 'Zen' way I noticed that they enjoyed the same benefits as I did, even from a young age.

Seeing is the core element of Zen drawing. It is about quieting the chattering mind and opening up to what you see. By using the drawing reflex your hands automatically draw (contour)lines without effort, even without looking at your paper! This way, the drawing seems to appear almost by itself. In the meantime you can focus on what you see, feel connected and enjoy the experience.

Creating a piece of art

One of the best way to discover your drawing reflex is via the 'blind contour drawing exercise' (read more). This way of drawing results in simple contour drawings that can be used for any artistic purpose. You can complete the drawing in more detail by adding tones in pencil, you can use the drawing as the basis for your art in any material you wish like watercolor, oil and acrylics, pencil and crayons. The more you practice, the more you learn about the technique and the more experienced you will get. With the 'Zen' attitude of playfulness en joy your skills will improve by itself.



Less is more

Drawing with a touch of Zen is a way of drawing based on the ground principles of Zen. One of them, the 'less is more' principle teaches us to draw the essence of the subject. The simpler the better. A simple line, when it has captured the essence, can tell it all.

In Zen drawing you can play with this principle and draw a simple sketch or for example the essence of a landscape by leaving out all irrelevant details.

Inspirational places

The more you enjoy what you see, the more you will enjoy drawing. Zen drawing encourages you to find things and places you really love, so you will enjoy looking at it and feel more connected. It's a great excuse to go out, bring your sketchbook and discover beautiful places. Once you have drawn something on location, you are not likely forget that experience. Zen drawing is a way of making a mental  photo-album of memories!

Learn how to draw the Zen way

Do you want to learn how to draw with a touch of Zen?

I recommend to read a book or watch a Zen drawing video. I sell several books and you can find my videos here.



Fine art prints

Some of my Zen drawings, mostly trees, are very popular for home decoration. I sell fine art prints and canvas prints, here in my Etsyshop.