Jersey Shore Arts Center

Tangled Spirals: Discovering the Phi & Opus Formats 

4 Weeks |Tuesdays, October 6 - October 27 | 3pm-5pm |

$140 | $20 materials fee

Skill Level: All levels welcome (No prior art or Zentangle experience required) Instructor: Matt Wieczkowski, Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT)

Tangled Spirals Downloadable pdf

Course Description:

Explore the mesmerizing world of Zentangle-inspired spirals in this immersive class. Rather than working on standard square tiles, we will dive deep into two of Zentangle's most elegant, mathematically beautiful formats to give your linework incredible movement and breathing room.

Weeks 1 & 2: Precision on Phi Tiles

We begin our journey by mastering the anatomy of a spiral using the unique proportions of the Phi tile. Modeled after the Golden Ratio, this elongated format provides the perfect structured landscape for learning how to scale, nest, and shade tight, intricate spirals that naturally please the eye.

Weeks 3 & 4: Expansion on the Opus Tile

In the second half of the course, we break boundaries by transitioning to the monumental Opus tile. This massive canvas allows us to expand our practice, letting our spirals unfold into sweeping, large-scale compositions. You will learn strategies for managing expansive white space, connecting massive spiral structures, and creating dramatic, exhibition-worthy artwork.

By the end of these four weeks, you will have a deep understanding of how scale, proportion, and tile geometry can completely transform the energy of your tangled spirals.

Required materials

Sketch book 5 x 8 inch

$20 fee to be collected at first class, which will cover: 

Zendala tiles (Phi tiles and Opus tiles)

Fine line pens (Sakura Micron)

Shading tools (charcoal and graphite pencils, and various gel pens)

Use of colored pencils and/or watercolor paints or pencils