Ep 6 - Diane Harpster - Unraveling Zentangle & the Worth of Art

Created Creative Podcast

In this episode of Creative Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth have a discussion with Diane Harpster, an artist and certified Zentangle teacher who uses her creativity both as a spiritual practice and a means of connecting with others. Highlighting her journey with Zentangle drawing, Diane shares how her art evolved in response to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. The conversation also touches on the struggles faced by creative professionals in attributing a monetary value to their work, igniting a friendly debate around ideas of spirituality, business, and the worthiness of art. 00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings 00:46 Christmas Recap and Traditions 02:36 New Year's Reflections and Star Words 04:23 Interview with Diane 05:18 Diane's Creative Journey and Experiences 09:39 Exploring Zentangle Drawing 13:20 Teaching Zentangle and Its Impact 13:51 Teaching Art Online and Spirituality 14:07 Inspirations and Favorite Artists 14:26 The Role of Technology in Art 15:38 Current Projects and Future Plans 16:02 Sharing Art on Social Media 16:42 The Intersection of Creativity and Spirituality 17:23 The Value of Creativity in Ministry 18:00 Struggles with Pricing Art 18:24 Balancing Business and Spirituality 19:21 Overcoming the Fear of Charging for Art 20:30 The Importance of Valuing Your Art 21:32 The Power of Testimonials 26:33 Commitment to Gathering Testimonials 27:28 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Engage

Visit Diane's website: https://www.dianeharpsterart.com/

Testimonials on Diane's work:

Zentangle Classes

Thank you so much Diane for your Zentangle guidance and encouragement. Refreshing in this experience tonight and through Christ, I felt and feel Fully accepted. (Dan)

Thanks for another strong, faith-filled Emmaus class. Thanks for sharing graciously, a low-key atmosphere class, encouragement, fun, good teaching, faith-focused, with creativity and caring. (Sunni)

Thank you SO much for your mails, for all the great information and the link to the recording of the first class, which I thoroughly enjoyed ‘attending’. It’s been really special to take some quiet time for myself each day to just BE, to pray and to tangle. (Monica)

The workshop was initiated with a few minutes of mindfulness and centering time. The speaker demonstrated simple easy drawing patterns on a projected demonstration at the front of the room. She immersed her demonstration with tips of mindfulness and relaxation. The speaker was encouraging for being creative, going slowly, and consistent in the message that “no mistakes” are made in art. The room was quiet and a very relaxed atmosphere was created. A meditative aspect was threaded throughout the session. Participants are frequently reminded to be aware of their breathing and ability to relax in the moment. Much encouragement and support is offered. The artist shared three Zentangle techniques with the group across a 45 minute workshop. Reminders for life lessons taken from mindful times were shared at the close of the workshop. (Amy)

Thank you so much for your wonderful lesson. I loved it. I know this is going to help in my recovery, my intention is to create and remind myself to be grateful every day. Your links and suggestions for more information will be so helpful. I can't wait to check it out. I'm really hoping to have other opportunities to learn with you. (Sandy)

Thank you so much for today! It was such an eye opener into Zentangle! I’ve seen videos of people doing tangles but it’s never explained, the video is sped up, and of course it looks perfect. Today was very relaxing, and I feel very inspired to take a little bit of time every day to try different patterns and just take a few moments to slow down and appreciate the process. I think I’m going to have to see myself a little kit for taking supplies with me! (Cindy)

So Loved/Serenity Reflection Cards

I love having these cards in the bag! I pull one out every day, set it out, and make it my own for that day. The messages on the back are spot-on and I like the application questions.

I received my cards yesterday and they are absolutely beautiful! Thank you so much! When I saw the cards I thought they were so beautiful and the messages are just the type of reminders I need right now.

Getting through the last 3 yrs has been hard. My mom got terribly ill almost 2 yrs ago and because of restrictions none of us could see her in the hospital. She passed away after 2 weeks and I still feel like I could have helped her more. We are coming up on that anniversary and after 3 yrs of avoiding Covid I caught it this weekend. A bit of inspiration is just what I need.

I believe I was one of your first customers on Etsy and I love your Serenity cards! I'm a United Methodist minister and always looking for ways to deepen my relationship with God and find art a way to see God in new ways!