Drawing As Meditation: 10 Days Of Patterns Inspired By Food

1. Introduction: Life, much like a grand buffet, offers us an abundant spread of moments and experiences. Some sweet, some savory, some bitter, some bland. Now we don't have control over what life serves us, but we can definitely change the way we consume it. With mindfulness as our spoon, we can savor each bite without rushing and find contentment, even in the simplest servings. So join me in this class where we will dig into mindfulness and learn to embrace each experience, irrespective of the taste or the texture. Hi, am Neha Modi, I'm an artist, mindfulness practitioner, and a top teacher here on Skillshare. This class is part two of the drawing as meditation series that I'm teaching here on Skillshare, and this time, food is our muse. So over the course of ten days, we will explore how food can inspire and nourish our creativity. Through daily prompts and guided exercises, we will uncover a treasure box of shapes, patterns, textures, and details, and most importantly, learn to draw with compassion instead of the fear of perfection. With every lesson, you will fill your plate with pattern design techniques, as well as moments of calm, presence and joy. No matter where you are on your creative journey, this daily practice will tickle your artistic taste buds and will give you a fun and flexible framework to stir meditation into your daily routine. All you need for this class is pen, paper, and an appetite for new experiences. So without further ado, let's stig in. 2. Class Project: Welcome to the class. I'm so glad that you have decided to join me on this journey, where drawing patterns isn't just about art. It's a gateway to mindfulness and a remedy to overcome creative blocks. Now, your class project is to follow each of the ten pattern prompts and share them in the project gallery. You can upload one pattern each day, or you can wait until the end and upload all of them together. Please remember it's not about flawless execution. There is no strict recipe. So feel free to take inspiration from what I am doing or bring in your own variations. What really matters is that you spend some time noticing the little details in the food items around you and then translating that into your sketchbook. Material you need for this class are few essentials. Fine liners, pencil, some paper, and a ruler. Feel free to mix and match brands and sizes to suit your preferences. The key is to have a set of fine liners that allow for both bold strokes, as well as intricate details. You can also use alternative mediums like crayons, colored pencils, or watercolors. As for Canvas, I'm using a sturdy 200 GSM paper, but any sketchbook or paper will be sufficient as long as it provides a smooth surface. For mindful drawing, choose a size of paper that compliments your available time, as well as your mental bandwidth. Some days call for larger sketchbooks so that ideas can unfold gradually, while some are best suited for compact formats. And yes, one last thing before you dive in. Take a moment to set the scene. Find a comfy spot, grab your materials, and get ready to let your creativity simmer. Think of it like prepping your kitchen before you start cooking. It just makes everything go a little smoother. In the kitchen of creativity, there is no strict recipe. Only endless possibilities waiting to be savored. Get ready to stir up some creativity. It's going to be a deliciously fun write. O. 3. Day 1: Coffee Beans: For me, coffee isn't just a drink. It's pure magic. It brings me joy, lifts my spirits, and it taste delicious too. That first sip in the morning when everything is quiet and full of promise is truly special. I'm sure all you coffee and even tea lovers would relate to that emotion of holding that cup and taking that first sip. So that's why for day one, let's brew up a pattern inspired by my favorite and a morning essential of many coffee. We are starting day one with a stripe repeat. Now the stripe repeat is a simple idea that can also have a more complex and interesting execution. It can range from the traditional horizontal and vertical lines to other variations like diagonal, Chevron, pin stripes, color blocked, gradient, asymmetric, and et cetera. Stripes can also be created using motives instead of the traditional lines. That's why for today, I'm going to create a zigzag or a chevron pattern and use coffee beans instead of lines to create it. These zigzag lines are the foundation of my pattern. I have divided the paper in six equal columns of 2.2 centimeter each so that there is some uniformity. But then I'm doing the second part free hand. You can measure your lines or you can do start to end free hand. Pick a root that appeals to you. Feel free to make your zig zags as close or as far from each other. Experiment with the width and spacing of the zig zags until you find a rhythm that suits your taste. In case you want to use another stripe style for your base, then do that. Just like we all have different methods to brew coffee, there are different ways to do this pattern too. Once the base is done, it's time to add coffee beans. Now the shape of a coffee bean is a fairly simple motive. It's an elongated oval shape. I'm drawing medium sized beans and making sure that each bean is connected to the other. The zigzag lines are fairly the same, and that is why to maintain the balance and harmony, I'm drawing the same number of beans on each line. Now, you can draw the way I am doing or you can play around with the size of your coffee beans. You can draw one big bean on each side or super tiny ones. What's important is that you stick to what you're doing throughout the pattern. That will ensure not only a cohesive looking pattern, but it will also turn it into an extremely mindful process. With every bean that you draw on the peak and valley of the Zig zac, you will get comfortable with the shape. As you repeat the same action over and over again, you will start to feel a sense of ease and flow. Especially on the days when you are anxious, the repetitive action will soothe your mind and provide a sense of predictability, which in turn can bring calm amidst the chaos. Continue drawing coffee beans along the entire length of your zi zac stripes. P consistent with the size and number of beans to maintain the rhythm of the batter. Now at this stage, this is just a page filled with elongated ovals. It doesn't look like coffee beans, right. To do that, I'm going to add two curves in the center part of the shape. This curve is called the crease. It's the line where the two halves of the coffee bean come together during the growth process. Now, drawing these curves is a very simple process. Just make sure that the starting point and the end of the two curves are connected. I'm keeping space between the curves because in the next step, I want to fill in each side of the beam. But if you don't want to do that, you can just make a thick curve without leaving any space. Mindful drawing isn't about complexity. It's about process, intention and building the pattern at your own pace. Just like how we incorporate tea or coffee into our daily routines effortlessly. Integrating mindful drawing can also be as simple and enjoyable. That's why when you start this practice, start with simple patterns and simple subject matter. Choose subjects that genuinely interest you or evoke positive emotions so that you can enjoy the process instead of feeling overwhelmed. Your drawing practice should be a delightful ritual, not a struggle. Now, finally, my page looks like the one filled with coffee beans. Now at this stage, you can leave the pattern as it is and call it done or color it. I'm definitely going to fill it in. I'm going to fill the two halves of the bean. You can use any other color or any other medium to. I want to maintain the whole black and white aesthetic, and that's why I'm going to use black pin to color the beans. The only thing that we have to keep in mind wile coloring the coffee beans is to ensure that we don't leave any white space. It's a simple condition, but it will help you slow down, pay attention to the simple action, and make the activity into a mindful one rather than just plain old coloring activity. Now, much like that daily cup of coffee that sets a tone for your day, mindful drawing can be a creative and mental espresso. It's not just about putting pen to paper. It's about setting an intention and creating a mindful space in the of life. The simple act of drawing, just like that first sip of coffee, can energize, boost your mood, and offer a precious pause in your day. It really doesn't matter what you draw, how you draw, or how long you draw for. What matters is the attention with which you draw. Every time during the drawing process, you find yourself driftering to some other thoughts. Just gently bring yourself back to the paper, back to the pen movement. Do remember that just like your daily brew, your mindful drawing is a moment of calm in your everyday routine. Do embrace the rhythm. Keep moving at a pace you enjoy, and eventually, you will have a page filled with coffee beans. And with that, we are done with day one. The next time you feel bored or irritated, then along with reaching out for your favorite beverage, also grab your favorite pen and settle in for a mindful drawing session. It won't take long to make. You don't even have to finish it at one go, but it will go a long way in settling your mind and helping you relax. 4. Day 2: Ginger : Today, we are going to take inspiration from ginger. Nature's little powerhouse. Now, the beauty of a ginger lies not just in its flavors and multiple health benefits, but also in its shape. The twist and turns and the irregularities make it such a fun thing to draw. It's like an invitation to embrace imperfection, and that's amazing, isn't it? The first step here is to allocate space for each and every ginger motive. I'm going to do that by making rough blobs on the paper. These blobs will act like placeholders. They'll help in visualizing the composition and distribution of gingers across the paper. So I'm going to keep it loose and rough and focus on the overall placement and size of each ginger. This is going to be a non directional random repeat, which means that no matter which way you turn, there is no right or wrong way to look at the pattern. The plan here is to create a montage of gingers that fit together and to make sure that the size is fairly consistent. Sometimes it's fun to alternate the size of things. But in some patterns, especially in this case, where the motive itself is irregular, the rhythm in the pattern comes from the relative uniformity of the size of the shapes in your piece. So keep all of these factors in mind and mark the space for the basic motive. The shape of a ginger is generally elongated and bulbous. The curves, pumps, and twists along its surface gives it a unique and organic appearance. When you start drawing, keep all these elements in mind. Pay close attention to the proportions and contours of the ginger root. Notice how it tapers towards one end and features ation at the other. One of the best ways to draw this is to keep some gingers in front of you and try and capture that on the paper. When we take inspiration from natural food produce, we are not bound by strict rules or expectations of perfection. Natural items allow for a more fluid and creative approach. Not only do fruits and vegetables comes in diverse shapes, but they also have imperfections like blemishes, asymmetrical shapes or varying textures. These imperfections add character and uniqueness to the drawing process. That is why these gingers aren't meant to be perfect replicas. They are expressions of your creativity and individuality. With each motive that you draw, feel the weight of expectation lift off your shoulders. Experiment with different sizes and orientations to create a harmonious composition. Rotate some ginger motives slightly to avoid a uniform appearance and most importantly, embrace the imperfections and asymmetry of the motive and have fun with the pattern. Another thing that you can do is that after making each motive, stop for a few seconds and look at what you have done. Ask yourself, how would you like to draw the next gingere? This will not only help in bringing variations and more organic feel to the pattern, but will also help you slow down. Once the outlines of the base shapes are done, we can start adding details. Now, there is no right or wrong way to add details. It can be realistic, or stilzed, or a combination of both, dots, des, lines. You can add whatever you feel like to enhance the texture and character of the ginger motive. Like in my case, I'm adding wonky lines and irregular bold dots to mimic the natural ridges and bumps found on the surface of the ginger. I'm just going to vary the direction of the lines and keep them loose and fluid to capture the accents of the ginger in a stylized and playful way. I'm just making lines anywhere that I feel like making. I'm making sure that I keep certain distance between them, but other than that, I'm not aiming for perfection. The one thing that I'm keeping in mind while making these lines is to close the lines from one end to the another. This simple condition makes me aware of each little line and makes the process into a mindful one. I take my time to do that. I allow the lines to unfold gradually and slowly shift into the flow state of mind. With every line and mark that I make, I immerse myself in the present moment. I don't think about how the pattern is going to look in the end. For me, what matters is the line that I'm making in the present moment. As you fill in your ginger shapes, let your lines flow freely. Your lines or the marks that you're doing can be super random or really orderly. This is just a fun accent to give the piece more interest and texture. The details you add will make the pattern come alive. So use this as the opportunity to think as to what kind of details you would like to add. Have fun with it. Allow your pen to dance on the paper and let intuition be your guide. You know, just like the way ginger is loaded with all sorts of benefits, so is mindful drawing. It can soothe you, heal you, nourish you, and make you feel better. Your sketchbook will not only become the magical place where failed adventures lead to amazing discoveries, but it will also become a way to meditate. So try to incorporate daily mindful drawing practice into your routine. It won't take a lot of time, but it will benefit you in many ways. So this is how my ginger inspired pattern looks in the end. So let's carry this mindful approach beyond the artwork and weave it into the fabric of our everyday lives. Thank you for being there today. I'll see you tomorrow. Ooh. 5. Day 3: Peas: Every day household work can get boring, isn't it? Now, shelling peas is definitely one of them. But, you know, by just noticing the texture of the pod beneath our fingers, by hearing the rhythmic pops and veiling each P, we can transform this menial task into a mindful exercise, and that is what is so special about mindfulness in general. In the hustle bustle of daily life, youo need to dedicate hours to practice mindfulness. You can bring mindful pauses into your daily routine by being fully present while doing each and every activity. So that's why for Day three, let's draw some pea pods to remind ourselves that there is tranquility in unhurried moments and beauty in the ordinary. Now, the pattern that we are doing today is called the DTC pattern. It's a pattern where small scale motives are scattered all over the page. These designs do not have a linear or geometric arrangement. What are we going to do? We'll start by sketching some small pea pods all over the paper. I'm starting with a gentle curved line to outline the basic shape of a pea pod. Now, I'm not rushing into adding all the details like the pes just yet. Because right now it's all about getting the overall layout right. It's like following a recipe. First, you prep all the ingredients, and then you add them in the next stages. Now, DC patterns are characterized by their tiny scale and chaotic yet harmonious layout. Make sure to make small size p pods and scatter them evenly all across the page. Maintain a balance by incorporating uniformity in the size and spacing of the p pods. This will create harmony amidst the seemingly scattered elements. Periodically, you can step back from your work to take in the entire composition. This mindful pause will allow you to assess the overall balance and identify areas that may need adjustment. Now, once the main layout is done, the first thing I'm going to do is start adding curves inside the main pod. You can choose to do this or skip it completely. I'm doing this to add more depth to the pattern. It's also a very simple step, and that's why it gives us a chance to immerse ourselves in the process. The drawing part is already done. All we have to do is mimic the shape, focus on closing, starting and ending the lines properly, and move from one pod to another. The mind often scattered with the noise of daily life can find peace in this focused and repetitive motion. It's not just about lines on paper, it's about mindful movement where each stroke is made with intention and complete awareness. As of now, this looks like a page filled with leaf like shape, isn't it? Now to convert it into pea pods, I'm going to start adding. Along with making the p, I'm also filling up the empty space around the piece to give more to each pod. Now, circles are one of the most calming shapes to draw, but most of the time, we shy away from them because we think that we need to make the perfect round. But in this case, because the circles are so small, there is no pressure to make the perfect circle. Rather, you're free to bring variations in the size and the number of. It doesn't have to be perfect. Just make sure that you're closing the shape properly. Now, it's very easy to rush and move from one circle to another so that the pattern gets over soon, but that will not serve the purpose, right? We are doing this pattern to slow down to enjoy the mundane and find peace in the day with mindful pauses. As you engage in the mindful practice of adding peace to each p pod, recognize the significance of this contemplative pause. It goes beyond the act of drawing. It is a purposeful intermission in your day. Amidst the hustle, this intentional pause offers a quiet space for reflection, a respite where the mind rejuvenates and ready to navigate the rest of the day with a renewed sense of focus and calm. Now, one of the traits of a ditsy pattern is that it's a very tightly packed arrangement. When observed from a distance, these meticulously placed elements seamlessly merge to create an illusion of one cohesive and complete design. To achieve that close knit look, in this last step, I'm going to add ps in the rest of the space. I'm going to fill these ps with black instead of keeping it blank. I'm doing this because the black provides a good contrast to the overall pattern. And bringing slight variations in the sizes of the piece and making sure that they are all scattered and not forming a line at any place. Now the intentional proximity of elements enhances the overall intricacy of the DTC pattern. This closeness fosters a sense of unity and harmony, letting us perceive the pattern as a singular cohesive entity rather than a collection of individual elements. And with this, we are done with our day three dits inspired pattern. I hope you enjoyed creating this pattern, and it serves as a reminder that even in small and mundane, there exists a profound potential for peace and clarity. Ooh. 6. Day 4: Cheese: Have you ever wondered why the Swiss cheese has holes in it? Well, these holes, which are also called eyes are formed during the fermentation of the cheese. As cheese ages, tiny bacteria produces gas, and when that gas gets trapped, it forms these iconic holes. It's like a cheesy surprise, where each cheese slice has a funky pattern of its own. So that's why for D fo, we are going to draw an agile pattern inspired by cheese. We will capture the randomness of these cheese holes so that we can remind ourselves that sometimes the unplanned and the unpredictable adds most flavor to our plate. The first step here is to make the base for the pattern. I prefer using a ruler, but you can also do it free hand if you're comfortable. Now in order to achieve that classic agile look, which is essentially a repeat of diamond shapes, I make sure that the diamonds are taller than they are wide. That's why each column on the paper is 1.5 centimeter in width and three centimeter in height. This ratio gives me the ideal proportions for the diamonds. However, you can adjust these measurements based on how big or small you want your diamonds to be. Now with the base done, it's time to get cheesy. Now, generally, the highlight of an agile pattern is the use of colors and the diagonal lines that cross over the diamonds. But in this case, we won't be following the exact theme. We will do our thing and yet try to retain some as sense of this pattern. So the first step is to draw the cheese outline in each of the diamonds. I'm going to keep some gap and start connecting irregular semicircles with lines to form the distinctive cheese look. Now, just like the way holes on the cheese are unpredictable, I'm also embracing the same assents here on paper. I'm playing around with their placement and also changing their size as and when required. It's a very easy and relaxing step, so embrace the randomness and keep moving through one diamond after the other. Now, the second step in this pattern is the continuation of the f. I'm just going to add irregular circles and ovals inside the cheese. Now, cheese holes aren't perfect, and that's the best part about this pattern. The whole unpredictability and the simplicity of this motive will help us let go of perfection. I think it's one of those patterns where even if you are a perfectionist and get uncomfortable with a mistake, there is no scope for mistake. Even if there are some size variations, or you forget to draw less holes or something like that, it'll just not matter. And that's quite a liberating feeling, isn't it? So keep moving from one diamond to the other. Try bringing some variations in each slice. Keep wearing the size of the cheese holes. So bake, some small and some in between. This pattern is such a good reminder that embracing unpredictability is not just limited to art. It's a mindset, whether in the kitchen in our creative endeavors or in navigating life's challenges. No matter the planning, our days are filled with unknown elements. So instead of fighting them, it's important to acknowledge them, make space for them and learn to respond to them rather than react. It's only when we look at the randomness in life with mindfulness, we can see reason and strength in it, or if nothing else, just patience and acceptance. So as you embark on your creative journey, remember to savor the moments. Find beauty in the unexpected and let your creativity flow freely. In this final step, I'm adding black color to each slice. I'm doing this for two reasons. First reason is to enhance the depth and definition of the cheese slices. This isn't just about filling in the space. It's a deliberate technique to create visual interest. The second reason to do this is for mindful engagement. This simple coloring activity is a chance to immerse myself in the process without the need for active decision making. The shapes are already drawn, and the color choice is straightforward, and this allows my mind to ease into a state of relaxation. The reduction in decision making process lowers stress level and helps you relax further as your mind isn't constantly engaged in choosing different colors or combinations. So take your time as you do this step. When you cultivate a mindset that values a journey as much as a destination, it gets easier to wander into the creative state and create more often. By releasing attachment to the final outcome, you can enhance both the quality of the work produced and the overall satisfaction derived from the creative journey. Just as cheese matures with time, your artistic skills and creative prowess will also evolve with each project you undertake. So indulge in low state creative activities and relish the benefits that come with it. And with this, we are done with a very cheesy pattern. Thank you for joining me today. Keep creating, keep sharing, and may your experience be as rich and diverse as the world of cheese. See you tomorrow. 7. Day 5: Chips: How many times have you found the chips packet empty without even realizing that you ate them all? That empty packet is not a reminder to get another packet of chips. Rather, it is a gentle nudge to bring consciousness to our actions, even in the simplest moments, even while snacking. So to ingrain that thought, the food under spotlight today is potato chips. This is going to be a random repeat, which is also called a tossed repeat. It seems like a perfect match for an open packet of chips. All we got to do is toss the chips all across the page without a specific sequence or arrangement. What I really like about random repeat is that there is a sense of spontaneity and there is the freedom to take the pattern in whichever direction you want to. Now, even though it is a random repeat, it is one directional, as it can be viewed from only one direction, and that is happening because I decided to add the packet two in the pattern. Though you can skip that part, and if you just draw the chips, it will become a multi directional random repeat. Now, when it comes to drawing potato chips, we are dealing with a fun and simple shape. It's a rounded oval with irregular edges. Now we can fill the page with similar shaped chips, or we can bring in some variations. Some chips can be extra curly while others can have more angular edges. You can even experiment with three D approaches to showcase the folds of some chips while keeping others flat. When you draw your chips, try to embrace their uniqueness by varying the shapes, sizes, and angles. This variation will not only add depth to your pattern, but will also create an engaging visual experience. Now, to maintain a balanced repeat pattern, pay attention to spacing and density. Ensure that there is equal distance between motives. You can step back periodically to review and adjust so that you can enhance the overall balance and visual appeal of your pattern. You know, most of us have eaten chips multiple times in our lives. But how many times have we actually observed the shape, the colors, the textures, or even the sound of a crisp chip? That is why this exploration of shapes not only engages your creativity, but also invites a mindful focus on the details and nuances of each chip. We can start by paying attention to the shapes of the chips, their position, first on the page, and then translate this mindful drawing experience to a snack time. Once you're satisfied with the overall layout, you can delve into the next step, which involves adding texture and depth to the chips by skillfully drawing lines within them. Now, when it comes to drawing lines, I like to draw curved lines that follow the contos of each chi. Each line is connected to the previous one to create a seamless flow. This approach not only mimics the natural irregularities found in real life potato chips, but also contributes to a more detailed and visually engaging design. The curvature of the lines helps to capture the subtle variations and imperfections that give the chips their unique character. In addition to the curvature of the lines, I also round off the ends slightly. This seemingly minor detail plays a significant role in the visual impact of the design. By softening the edges, we create a more organic and natural look, which resembles the irregular and imperfect chips that we all enjoy. Now, while I'm using this technique, feel free to explore your style, straight lines, dotted lines, or anything else, pick a style that you would enjoy doing the most. The key is to maintain consistency in line style and spacing, as this not only enhances the visual harmony of the pattern, but it also keeps you attuned to each pen stroke and the overall composition. The repetitive nature of drawing lines serves a dual purpose. It transforms a simple shape into an intricate potato chip, while it also calms the mind and fosters a deeper connection with the artwork. These conditions and rules, such as connecting the lines and maintaining consistent style, helps us stay focused and immersed in the creative process. Any deviation in the line quality or spacing serves as a general reminder to return to the present moment and give our full attention to the pattern at hand. One of the most beautiful thing about mindfulness is that you don't actually have to try too hard. There is no need to make anything happen or achieve a special state in this case. Simply relax and pay as much attention as you can to what is there in the present moment. Remember, just like creating this pattern, slowing down and being aware makes every experience. So beat while drawing lines in the potato chips, or while actually eating the chips, the more we savor with awareness, the more the flavor lingers and stays with us. So take a moment to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of this mindful pattern drawing. Let the process guide you from mindlessness to mindfulness, enriching your creative journey and enhancing your connection to the present moment. Savor each stroke, each bite, with curiosity and gratitude. There you go, Day five is done. So the next time you reach for those potato chips or any snack for that matter, eat with awareness. Make each bite count not only to enjoy the flavor, but also to avoid the disappearing act. Being mindful isn't just reserved for meditation. It can be weaved into the biggest, as well as into the smallest moments. Ooh. 8. Day 6: Peanut: Today, we are going to immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of the basket af pattern. It's a symmetrical design technique, characterized by its interlacing horizontal and vertical strands, resembling the woven structure of a basket. We are going to draw this pattern using an earthy and rustic food, the peanut. Despite this small size, the peanuts have a unique shape and texture, and I think it'll be really interesting and relaxing to interconnect this motive with this timeless design. Let's begin. Now there are many ways of doing the basket weave pattern. We will do a singular or also called as the plane ave, where we will repeat only one set of elements horizontally and vertically to create a cohesive looking pattern. Now, again, just like other patterns in this series, you can make a detailed grid or start doing the pattern free hand. Either way, it will depict the basket wave style. In my case, I have made a grid where each square is 1 centimeter. I'm using the space of three squares to draw each peanut. If you want to draw bigger size peanuts, then use six or even more squares, or you can make bigger size squares. While the first peanut was vertical, the second is horizontal. I'll continue changing between horizontal and vertical till the time I reached the end of this row. Now, a peanut is a curved shape resembling a sideways eight. It's a simple shape, and because it's a natural motive, it doesn't have to be perfect. Till the time you get the curves right, the motive absolutely works. Now in the second row, I left two blocks and started with a vertical peanut. The aim is to not just alternate, but also start each peanut with the middle part of the peanut above it and beside it. It's this placement that will give the pattern that interconnected basket. So just like the row before, I'm again just changing the direction of the motive and drawing it one after the other. When you draw patterns like basket weave, it feels as if they have their own orography. There's a rhythm to it, and it's quite captivating. So bring all your awareness while drawing this simple motive. And after a while, you will have the foundation of your pattern ready. Now we are going to start adding details in the peanut motive. In the first step, we will draw short curved lines running parallel to the outline. These lines indicate the natural ridges and texture of a peanut shell. Keep them evenly spaced and follow the contour of the peanut. I'm drawing four curved lines in each peanut. You can decide the number of lines and eventual segments you want in the peanut based on the size of the peanut you have made. This is a very simple low pressure step. Take your time and draw without the need to finish the pattern as soon as possible. As much as mindfulness is about tuning into ourselves and our present reality, its benefit goes beyond the self. It makes us compassionate, and that in return, helps in establishing interconnectedness between us and others. It makes us aware of what is going on in the moment within ourselves around ourselves and with others. And that is why, as we get more comfortable with our own thoughts and emotions, we naturally start being kinder and more understanding towards others. It's like realizing that at the end of the day, we are all interconnected, share joys, pains, and everything in between. Just like the way the rhythmic intertwining of strands indicate the seamless harmony between form and function in a basket weave pattern. Mindfulness fosters a heightened awareness of the present moment and the intricate interplay between internal experiences and external realities. Even though we all live in our own shells, let's not forget that we are connected to each other. When we deeply reflect on the threads of interconnection that weave through our lives, we can directly experience how we are never ever isolated. Oh. Now the surface of a peanut is not perfectly smooth, but rather it is marked with tiny squares or rectangles, creating a unique texture. And that is why in this last step, we will add lines within these curves to mimic the natural texture of the peanut. By adding these lines within each peanut, we are not only enhancing the visual appeal, but also tapping into a deeper connection with the subject matter. So as you go through each motive, allow yourself to focus on the process. With each stroke of the pen, visualize the texture and folding on the paper. Be mindful of your movement and ensure that each line completes a rectangular shape within the peanut. This attention to detail not only refines the pattern, but also nurtures a sense of patience and precision within you. So take your time, breathe deeply, and let your creativity flow as you fill in the lines within each peanut. And with this, we are done with our pattern for day six. As we end day six, let us carry forward the lessons of interconnectedness and presence and remember that just like in art in life too, tru magic lies in the connections we make and the moments we share. O. 9. Day 7: Watermelon: Today, we are going to draw Summer's favorite use, the watermelon. Along with the burst of flavor and the vibrant green and red, what I find interesting in terms of design is the arrangement of seeds within the watermelon and how it creates natural patterns that are both symmetrical and organic. It also reminds me of picnics and slow summer days, and that is why I'm really excited to draw a pattern inspired by one of my favorite fruit. Today, we are digging into a scallop pattern, which in simpler terms is a harmonious arrangement of curved shapes. Now, generally, this pattern is associated with shells or wave like patterns, characterized by the smooth rounded edges and repeating arcs. But we are going to draw these arcs on the paper to symbolize half cut watermelons, as well as the interconnectedness of art and mindfulness. As you can see, I'm just adding one curve after the other and making sure that each curve is connected to the other. Where one ends, the other starts. Now, there are various ways that you can fill the peach with arcs. One approach which I'm doing involves drawing arcs on all sides and gradually moving inward with each layer. This is a complex and unpredictable design style that embraces the beauty of irregularity. Now another option can be to build from bottom to top to ensure uniformity and a more structured approach. Both these parts lead to beautiful outcomes. So pick the root that seems more comfortable and interesting. I have used pencil for the first set of scallops because I want to make sure that the number of arcs is equal on all sides. Once this is done, I can easily move on to drawing directly with pen. Because after this step, I just have to connect one arc to the other and place it in between the two arcs below it. If my foundation is done right, I don't have to worry much about the rest of the arcs. As you build up your pattern, if there are places where you cannot place a arc exactly between two, just like the way it happened with me at certain places, then it's okay. In a pattern like this, it might get complicated to place all scallops between the ones below it. It's not a big deal, and this is not going to impact the overall pattern. Just like watermelons vary in shape and size, our arcs may not be identical, and that's perfectly fine. Remember, we are not aiming for perfection. We are embracing the joy of creation and the process of mindful expression. These imperfections often add character and charm to our artwork. It's what makes it human. Embrace that instead of looking at it like a flaw or a mistake. My page is filled, and it's time to start converting these arcs into watermelons. Now, as you very well know, I focus on only one step at a time. I do this so that I don't break the drawing rhythm of a particular shape. It's like an assembly line process, and I do this not for efficiency, but for mindfulness purpose. That is why in this step, I'm going to start by drawing two sets of curved lines in each of these scallops. The first curve represents the green part of the rind, and the second indicates the light green, the almost wide part of the watermelon. Once the curves are done, I'm just filling up the top layer with black to indicate the green part of the watermelon. This is a very relaxing step. It's just good old coloring. So take your time and make sure that you don't leave any white space. This little condition will ensure that rather than coloring, this process becomes into a mindful coloring activity. Now comes my favorite part of this pattern, which is to draw the seeds. So the seeds are nothing but tiny tear drop shapes. I'm going to follow the shape of the curve and draw the pointed end of the tear drop towards the center. That way, each layer of seeds are placed in such a way that all of them come together for c. As you keep drawing one layer of seats after the other, it might happen that eventually you will not have the space to draw curves, and that is absolutely fine. You can draw one or two seats in the end, depending on the space that you have. At the end of the day, we are taking inspiration from food items which are inherently imperfect in nature. What matters is that you are drawing seeds and transforming a bunch of arcs into a watermelon inspired scallop style pattern. Now, the number of seeds, the arrangement of seeds, their size is all up for you to decide. This is not an attempt at life drawing. So be creative and have fun with it. You can follow what I'm doing or do some other random arrangement of seeds. No matter the route you take, it will end up looking like a watermelon. As you draw the seeds following the contours of each watermelon motive, something fascinating will start to unfold. Your mind will start to synchronize with the rhythmic motion of your hand. The act becomes less about conscious effort and more about intuitive creation. This shift is crucial because it's where the magic of the flow state begins. Think about it this way. When you first learn to ride a bike, every movement requires focus and attention. But as you practice and become comfortable, riding becomes second nature. Similarly, as you repeatedly draw these tiny tear drop seeds, your mind finds a familiar path letting you enter a state of flow effortlessly. So take your time, savor each stroke, and let your imagination soar. And after a while, you will have a scallop pattern infused with the spirit of watermelon and mindfulness. As we wrap up day seven, let's not forget that flow isn't just some elusive concept reserved for some special occasions. It's right here in the everyday moments. So whether it is eating a watermelon, making a pattern, doing dishes, or taking a walk in the nature. By simply paying attention to our everyday activities, we can tap into that sense of flow. So let's keep riding that wave of awareness, and I'll see you tomorrow. Ooh. Oh. 10. Day 8: Pasta: From the elegant strands of spaghetti to the tubular delights of Penne, to the whimsical twist of fussi. Pasta comes in many shapes, sizes, and texture, each with its own unique history, beauty, and place on the dinner table. Just like the way, it's a playground for colory creativity. It's a playground for pattern inspiration too. So before I talk more about pasta and start feeling hungry, let's start the pattern. My pasta choice for this pattern is going to be Penne, and the pattern style I'm going to cook it in is the herringbone pattern. Now created by a series of angled parallel lines that form a mesmerizing zig zag, the herringbone pattern has withstood the test of time and remains present in diverse design styles. This pattern can be created in a variety of ways. While the most common herringbone pattern is the 45 degree angle, we are going to create the 90 degree one, also called as the block herringbone pattern. Now a 90 degree hearing bone pattern involves arranging motives in a grid where each motive is rotated at a 90 degree angle to create a V or hearing bone effect. I have started by drawing the first set of horizontal penne pasta. While drawing the motive, my focus is on capturing its cylindrical form, and that's why I'm making curve on both ends of the shape. I'm also drawing a set of two curves on the end of the pasta to create more depth and make the design less flat. When it comes to the layout, I started from top right, but you can start from any other point to. The goal is to finish one sequence of horizontal pasta and then move on to the vertical set and then horizontal again. It might seem a little confusing now, but as we move ahead in the pattern, you will see how it all turns out. Now, once the first set is done, it's time to change the orientation. This time, it will be vertical pen pastas. The starting point of these will be the gap created by the horizontal pasta. Now, the main thing to keep in mind here is number one, be consistent with the shape and size of the pasta. Number two, pay attention to the spacing between the motives and number three, B consistent with the starting point of each pasta motive. The more you pay attention to these elements, the more cohesive and well balanced your pattern will look in the end. This is one of those patterns that will encourage you to pay complete attention on the paper. As we are drawing directly from the pen, there is no scope to redo. Now, this doesn't mean that we get intimidated by it. Rather, let's take this as a challenge. The goal is not to create a perfect pattern, but to make sure that we are so aligned with what we are creating that after a while, nothing else matters. It's this heightened state of focus that will take us to the flow state and make this into a mindful experience. So go really slow and take your time. It's a fairly simple shape, and even if you draw slightly slanted or imperfect lines, it is perfectly okay. What matters is that you close the shape completely and make sure that the size and spicing is consistent. Once the vertical sets of pasta reaches the end of the other side, we will again switch to the horizontal ones. As you can see, it's an alternate play of the same motive, and the interesting part is that each shape drawn previously creates a space for the next one. Once all the shapes are drawn, it's time to add details. I'm starting with the simplest one, slowly going through each pasta and filling in the curves to denote the hollow tubes of the penne pasta. Ooh. Now it's time to convert this random shape into a more close version of penne pasta. And I'm going to do that by using one of my favorite shapes, and that is lines. These lines not only indicate the texture that is there on the penne pasta, but it also gives us a chance to create a comforting rhythm for the mind. Pasta is not just one of my favorite things to eat, but it also reminds me of Dolce Far Niente, the Italian phrase that means the sweetness of doing nothing. I feel when it comes to the world of mindful art, all these repetitive movements are similar to experiencing Dolce Fanane. It's a sweet indulgence for the mind and the soul. It's not about rushing or reaching a destination, but about enjoying each stroke, savoring the process, just like the way you would feel while indulging in a comforting treat. When we take the time to slow down and savor the present moment, we are reminded of all the beauty and goodness that surrounds us each and every day. Some may argue that Do hava Nana is a luxury, and not everyone can afford it. However, it does not have to be extravagant or inexpensive activity, nor time consuming. It can be as simple as taking a walk in the nature, enjoying a cup of tea, spending time with loved ones, or making art just for the sake of making. In a world that places such a high value on productivity and achievement. It's important to let go of the constant pressure to be doing more. It's important to prioritize rest. A sprinkle of doing nothing elevates not just your work life balance, but it can also make you appreciate the simple pleasures of life and find joy in the moment. So continue drawing and notice how the pattern starts to take shape, evolving with each line that you add. And after a while, you will find a page filled with the favorite of many pasta. So let's carry this mindful approach beyond the artwork and it into the fabric of our everyday lives. I hope you had a good time today. Thank you for being there, and I'll see you tomorrow. O. Ooh. 11. Day 9: Star Anise: Spices are like old friends in my kitchen. Now, just like the way mindfulness can elevate mundane into special, the right spices can elevate any dish. So that is why for day nine, we are going to draw the aromatic beauty star ase. It's distinctive eight pointed star like shape, symmetrical design, and intricate details make it into quite an interesting motive to experiment and explore. Let's begin. For this pattern, we are going to arrange the motifs in a brick repeat style. It's a pattern where the rows are staggered in such a way that they don't line up with the rows above and below it. This repeat pattern gets its name from the way bricks are laid to form a brick wall. Now, generally, for patterns like these, the squares or the grid is drawn in such a way that right from the beginning, the repeat unit is offset by half in the next horizontal row to resemble a brick wall. But in this case, I first divided the paper in equal size squares and then added circles in it in such a way that in every alternate row, the pattern is offset so that the motifs don't line up vertically. I made it this way because I wanted to place the star ans in these circles. The circles are going to be the guide for the overall size and shape of the motive. Now the star ans, as the name suggests, is a star shaped spice with eight distinct points or arms radiating outward from a central hub. Each arm is slender and elongated, tapering to a point. To get that look, we are going to begin by drawing a small circle or oval shape to represent the central seed pod of the star as, and then start drawing eight arms or points to create the base of the motive. Each arm is going to be narrow at the beginning and will gradually widen as it extends outwards. Now, typically, there are eight arms on a star s. When you draw them, it's important to space them evenly around the circle. You can draw rough lines with a pencil to divide the space for each segment. But I feel even if all are not equal in width, it is absolutely okay. The goal is to make eight segments, but not exactly same sized perfect segments. If you notice a star and is closely, you will see that all the segments are not exactly similar to each other. There are differences. If nature does not equate perfection with beauty, then why should we stress over it? Our intention is to pay complete attention to the pattern and all the key details. The end result should be rated on how it made us feel rather than how it looks in the end. Beauty after all is so subjective. I strongly feel that if the process is calming or fun or slows you down or just gives you a break from everything else for a while, then it is time worth spent. It is so important to create just for the sake of creating. The more you do it, the more you will discover the beauty hidden under the no pressure unhurried activities. If you feel that the shape is a little complicated, you can first try it out on a rough paper too. You can draw it several times. That will give you the confidence to draw directly from pen on the main sheet. Other option is that when you do the practice round, you can try some other variations. You can tweak the shape slightly to suit your style. It's your creative time, so feel free to experiment and play. Once the base is done, it's time to add texture and details and make it look like a star ans. The first thing I'm going to do here is draw curved lines along the length of each arm. These lines denote the natural ridges and folds found on the spice. The next element is to draw the seed, which looks like an elongated oval or a tear drop shape. Once you have made that, you can draw a line that connects the end of the seed with the edge of the arm. I'm adding the lines to create more depth and mimic the star s. You can add this step or choose to skip it. It's completely your choice. Now, the shiny seeds are the highlight of a star s. To differentiate them with the rest of the elements, I'm going to color them, but I will color them in the last step after adding all the details. I was really interested in exploring this spice because from a creative standpoint, the star and its shape offers a plethora of interesting elements to explore. Its symmetrical design and intricate details gives you a chance to delve into precision, proportion, and the interplay of curves and angles. So I hope you enjoy playing around with the motive as much as I did, and it inspires you to go on a treasure hunt and look for spices or food items which are filled with amazing details, shapes, and textures. So the last step in this pattern is to color in the seeds. It's the final element which will complete the pattern, similar to using spices while cooking. Now, both spices and art possess the ability to evoke emotions, tell stories, and transport individuals to different worlds. Spices standalze the palette while art captivates the soul. Both these process requires skill, creativity, and a keen understanding of balance to create something that transcends the ordinary and becomes an experience in itself. What I really like about spices is that every culture has its own unique relationship with it. The way they are used and combined differs from one culture to another. It's like a personal language of taste. Similarly, the beauty of art is the little variations each one of us bring to it. We can use the same motive, the same color scheme, but yet we can leave our own imprint that distinguishes one drawing from the other. That's why the more we create, the better we get in finding what works for us and what doesn't. The process helps us find our way and learn about our visual language. So Experiment with different techniques, mediums, shapes, and marks, and eventually, you will figure out your secret recipe to infuse your art with. And this is how a brick repeat pattern inspired from the star as looks like in the end. Much like the way a sprinkle of star anise can transform a recipe. The sprinkling of shapes, marks, textures, and motives that you relate with can transform your. So keep, keep experimenting, keep making mistakes. And yes, never stop seeking the magic that lies with it. Oh 12. Day 10: Pomegranate: Throughout this class, we have been cultivating appreciation for what is around us. Now, along with that, it is also important to feel grateful for what is inside us. And that is why for day ten, we will work on a fruit. That is all about removing layers and looking inside. Filled with gleaming red ruby seeds, the pomogranate is one of the oldest fruits known to humans, and I'm really excited to draw it. This is going to be an all over full bleed pattern, which means that the entire surface will be covered without any interruption. All the pomogranate motives will be connected to each other. I will first start with lightly sketching the basic shape of a pomogranate, which is a round val of a shape. I'm going to add the crown at the top of each motive, but we'll keep the base flat. Though if you want to add a little shape on the bottom to, then you can do that. Now all the pomogranits will be connected to each other, and that is why I will keep changing the size and the orientation. If there's limited space, I will only draw some part of the main body. The goal is to have a well balanced multi directional pattern. Take time while doing the basic sketch. If you're feeling stuck about the placement, then rotate the paper and see it from a different perspective. Try to have different starting points for the pomogrants. Once you're happy with the overall layout, you can go over it with a pen and finalize it. Now that the basic structure is ready, I'm going to add details to it. The first detail that I'm going to add is the rind or the skin of the pom. To indicate that, I'm just drawing a circle in each shape and filling it with plaque to indicate the thick part of the skin, as well as to add some definition to the motif. Now it's time for my favorite part, which is to draw the seeds. I have decided that I want to draw the stylized version of seeds, and that is why I'm going to mimic the curve of the rind and start drawing seeds in a circle. It will be a set of concentric circles made with seeds moving from toward. Now you can follow the same approach or draw the seeds in a completely different way too. For example, you can divide the area into quadrants and then fill it up with seeds. You can also draw radial lines from the center and fill each section with seeds so that the seeds are arranged in a radial pattern. Another idea is to scatter the seeds randomly within the pomogranit, and keep varying their sizes and spacing. You can even play around with the style of the seeds. I have made triangle shaped seeds with soft edges, but you can make them like tear drop or oval shaped or maybe indicate them with uneven circles. Experiment and see the different way you can come up to showcase a pomogranit pattern. The process of moving from one circle of seeds to the next and gradually going inward is similar to the journey of digging deeper into ourselves to uncover our true as sense. Just as each seed represents a small part of the whole Pomo granite and makes it what it is, each aspect of ourselves contributes to our overall being. We too carry within us a treasure of goodness, wisdom, and potential. And to discover that, we need to keep looking inward. We need to explore our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs without trying to change or fix them immediately. When we move without judging and rushing, we become aware of the beauty and intricacies of not just the outer world, but also our inner world, and mindfulness becomes our guide on this journey. It allows us to see ourselves for who we truly are, acknowledging our strengths and vulnerabilities with gentleeness and acceptance. So as you continue your artistic journey and explore the depths of your creativity, do remember that self discovery is not a linear path. It's about peeling back layers, uncovering hidden aspects of ourselves, and embracing the journey with patience and kindness. And with this, we are done with the last pattern of our food inspired series. There is an endless treasure that lies within each one of us. So keep looking inward with curiosity, compassion, and acceptance. 13. Conclusion: Congratulations on completing the class. I really appreciate the time and effort that you have put in. In the tapestry of our daily lives, there exist an enchanting world of beauty concealed within the everyday, often overlooked, yet brimming with intricate details and artistic inspiration. I'm glad that together we were able to slow down and zoom into these little details and fill not just our sketch book quick patterns, but also our days with moments of calm and reflection. I'm really excited and looking forward to seeing your versions of the daily drawings. So please do share them in the project gallery. Now, if you have any questions or suggestions, then feel free to share them in the discussion section. And if you found this class to be a nourishing experience, then please do leave a review. I'll be coming with the third installment of this drawing for meditation series very soon, so stay tuned for that. Thank you so much for joining me on this flavorful journey. May you keep uncovering the beauty that lies around you, as well as within you. I wish you days infused with creativity, calm, and compassion. Take care.