Some explorations are planned. Others simply unfold—and every once in a while, one turns out to be an absolute joy.

This tile was one of those happy explorations.

I started with a simple white tile and began working with a few of my favourite tangles, allowing them to come together naturally rather than overthinking the composition. There is something beautiful about keeping things simple. A few carefully chosen tangles, repeated and arranged thoughtfully, can create a composition that feels intricate without being complicated.

Once the line work was complete, I brought in colour.

I wanted to explore bright, joyful colours and see how they would transform the quietness of the black-and-white tile. Adding colour to a Zendala always feels a little magical to me. The patterns remain the foundation, but suddenly the piece has a completely different energy.

I loved watching the colours move through the spaces, highlighting some areas and softening others. The circular format of the Zendala gives the colours a lovely rhythm, almost as if they are moving around the tile.

What I enjoy most about explorations like this is that there doesn’t always have to be a big idea behind them. Sometimes, it is simply about sitting down, drawing a few lines, trying something new and seeing where it takes you.

And sometimes, the result makes you smile.

This tile certainly did that for me.

A simple composition. A handful of tangles. A splash of bright colour.

And, most importantly, a whole lot of joy in the process.

Tangle Names: Fantsee, Twistle.

Materials : 4.5 inches white Zendala Tile, Black Micron 01, White Gelly Roll Pen, Water Colours, Graphite Pencil and Stub.