Well hey there, Craftonians! ✨
If you’ve been hanging out with me here on the Happy Time Craftcast, you know we don’t just talk about glue guns and glitter (though I’m always here for both!). We talk about life, creativity, and all the beautiful ways people pour themselves into the things they make. And oh my goodness — this week’s guest, the absolutely delightful Samm Wehman, filled my heart with so much joy.
But first… can we laugh together for a second? I started this episode confessing that after more than sixty episodes, I just realized my ring light has been showing up in my glasses the whole time. Two little green circles in my eyeballs, every single video. Authenticity at its finest, friends. That’s me in a nutshell.
After a little laugh (and a quick recap of my Minnesota State Fair adventures — hello, dill pickle pizza and childhood malts!), I introduced Samm, and wow… what a gift.
Getting to Know Samm
Samm is one of those people whose creativity just radiates out of her. She’s an animal-loving, Florida-based artist who paints with a passion for conservation and kindness. She doesn’t just create art — she creates connection. Samm paints on reclaimed materials (yes, even old fan blades!) and brings whimsy to her animals, especially her beloved manatees and monarch butterflies.
When she told me about swimming with manatees as a free diver and how they became her favorite subject to paint, I felt this spark of wonder. And her monarch butterflies? They aren’t just gorgeous, they’re layered with meaning. Samm has worked with conservation efforts and brings that part of her story into her art. Isn’t that amazing?
What I Learned From Samm
Talking to Samm reminded me of a few things I think all of us creatives need to hear:
✨ Art doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s about connection, joy, and sharing a piece of yourself with the world.
✨ Sustainability can be beautiful. Reclaimed materials aren’t “trash” — they’re canvases waiting for new life.
✨ It’s okay to step outside your identity. Samm shared how she’s learning to see herself not just as an artist, but as a whole person. That hit home for me.
✨ Creativity shines when you let yourself simply be. That’s when the magic happens.
Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you’ve ever wondered how to merge your love for animals, the environment, and art, Samm is your girl. This episode is a big, cozy hug filled with inspiration. You’ll laugh with us, you’ll learn about manatees and monarchs, and you’ll be reminded that your creativity matters — exactly as it is.
So grab your favorite crafty project, pour yourself a cup of tea (or maybe a malt 🥤 if you can find one for 40 cents like the old days!), and come join Samm and me for this heart-filled conversation.
Until next time, Craftonians — keep shining, keep creating, and keep being your wonderful authentic selves. ✨
With love and joy,
Joleen
PS: 🎥 Watch the full episode below:
Guest Bio
Samm Wehman is a colorful and compassionate artist from Gainesville, Florida, who followed her heart into full-time painting. She’s passionate about eco-friendly art, creating with reclaimed materials, and celebrating wildlife through her work. As a vegan and advocate for animals, Samm blends her love for conservation, creativity, and connection into everything she does.
Follow Samm
Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[0:00 – 03:14] – Welcome & Ring Light Confession
[03:15 – 10:39] – Minnesota State Fair Adventures & Fried Food Tales
[10:40 – 13:59] – Introducing Samm Wehman
[14:00 – 20:29] – Samm’s Artistic Journey & Identity
[20:30 – 27:59] – Finding Joy in Painting Animals
[28:00 – 35:14] – Conservation, Manatees, and Monarchs
[35:15 – 40:59] – Working with Reclaimed Materials
[41:00 – End] – Closing Thoughts & Inspiration
Quotes from the Episode
“That’s how you know it’s authentic—because that’s just what I’m like in real life.” – Joleen Emery
“Short answer is I’m an artist… but really, I’m just me.” – Samm Wehman
“I bring my passion for animals and conservation into my art—because creativity can be a way to care for the planet.” – Samm Samm Wehman
Whimsy makes art approachable. It’s not about perfection, it’s about connection.” – Samm Samm Wehman
The best creativity happens when you give yourself permission to simply be.” – Samm Wehman
Resources and Links
🔗Learn more about Samm Wehman’s art & conservation work
📍Minnesota State Fair
📍Manatee Festival: Crystal River, FL – January (MLK weekend).
🖌️ Samm's Favorite Tools: Liquitex Acrylic Paints, Apple Barrel Acrylic Paints, Crafts Smart Acrylic Paints
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