This week the Zentangle Diva challenged us to “go big, or go home”. Mr. Excitement and I are on day two of a ten day trip to Mexico, so I’m definitely not ready to go home.
I’m also finding it difficult to find time to tangle. Last night I was exhausted from a 13 hour travel day, starting with a two hour drive from Philadelphia to Newark International Airport (please remind me to just fly from Philly from now on), a flight to Houston, Texas, and another from there to Oaxaca, Mexico. So, despite being a night owl and in a strange bed, I pretty much collapsed and slept well – well, for me anyway.
All that is the back story for why I’m sharing a “big” project, already undertaken before this week’s challenge. I was inspired by some of the tile mosaics I’ve seen in various Facebook groups. I also wanted to simulate a quilt.
I think I’m officially in a mosaic phase because I’ve started another one of mandalas alternating on cream and Renaissance tiles.
Oaxaca city is about 230 air miles south of Mexico City, located in mountain valleys. It was founded by the conquering Spaniards in 1522 when construction of its cathedral commenced. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its preserved colonial center.
The Basilica of Santo Domingo is enough to make any tangler swoon — think tangles in gold leaf. Here are some of my photos from today:
I got a crick in my neck gazing up at the various ornate ceilings.
Tomorrow we’ll be heading out into the countryside to visit some of the Zapotecan ruins and some of the small towns in the area.
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Your mosaics are beautiful, impressive and inspiring :-))
Wow, such a depth in your BIG one!!!! Have a great time over there!!!!
Wow! Beautiful work! Have a great time in Mexico!
Wow! Those mosaics are stunning Happy trails and safe travels.
We’re off up into the mountains tomorrow. We have friends who live in a village called Fuente de Piedra. No doubt there will be photos! Love the 3d quilt. Gorgeous. Enjoy your visit.
Just love your quilt mosaic with its vibrant colours! Actually, I‘ve been to Oaxaca almost exactly 15 years ago. My husband and I traveled through Mexico for almost four weeks in November 2002. What immediately comes to my mind when I think about the town are the colourful houses and all those neat cafes and bars around the Zocalo. Enjoy the rest of your trip!
Enjoyed the phrase “difficult to find time to tangle.”
Nicely put.
That church – and ceiling – are breathtaking! So beautiful. I am beginning to see Zentangles everywhere because of you (smile). I love that. You always inspire even when you don’t think you are.
Those mosaics are remarkable, Suzanne. Visiting the Basilica of Santo Domingo seems like a great experience. Looking forward to reading more about Zapotecan ruins!