Well hey there, Craftonians! ✨
If you’ve been hanging out with me here on the Happy Time Craftcast, you know we don’t just chat about paint, paper, or the occasional glue gun adventure (though, yes — I’ll always say yes to sparkle). We talk about creativity, courage, and what it means to live a life led by art and heart.
And this week’s guest — the deeply creative and wonderfully grounded E.J. (Eric) Klepinger — brought such honesty and inspiration into my day. Before our conversation, I’d just returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City with my kids — Broadway, bagels, and a few thousand steps later — and I was feeling that post-adventure gratitude buzz. Sitting down with E.J. was like taking a deep breath after a busy season — calm, reflective, and full of heart.
The vibe? Grounded. Thoughtful. Encouraging.
The perfect energy for a conversation about creativity, resilience, and what it means to truly answer the call to make art.
Getting to Know E.J.
E.J. is a Minnesota-based painter, teacher, and the president of Voyager Artists. His work captures the soul of the North — quiet forests, wildlife, and the kind of light that feels alive on canvas. But what’s most inspiring is how he got here.
After years working in graphic design and navigating the practical pressures of “real-world” work, E.J. found himself burnt out and creatively lost. A turning point — a complete life reset — brought him back to painting. What started as a way to heal became a full-time calling. Today, his art hangs in local galleries, breweries, and public spaces, reminding everyone who sees it that it’s never too late to rediscover your purpose.
One of my favorite moments in our chat was when E.J. said, “Art was always calling — I just finally decided to pick up the phone.” How good is that? It’s simple but so true. That quiet, creative nudge we all feel sometimes? It’s not going away. It’s waiting for us to answer.
What I Learned from E.J.
Talking with E.J. felt like standing in a warm studio filled with brushes, sunlight, and the soft hum of possibility. He reminded me that creativity isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. It’s how we make sense of the world, how we connect, and how we heal.
He spoke about growing up with practical expectations — that familiar message that art is “just a hobby” — and how long it took to unlearn that. His story is proof that creativity isn’t something you outgrow; it’s something you return to. It’s always waiting.
I loved when he said, “Those beliefs get planted in us so young — whether they’re true or not, we follow them almost blindly.” Isn’t that powerful? It’s such a reminder that we can choose differently. We can choose curiosity over certainty. Passion over practicality.
By the end of our conversation, I felt inspired — not just to make art, but to make space for art. To slow down. To listen to that quiet whisper that says, “Hey, it’s time to create again.”
Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you’ve ever put your creativity on hold…
If you’ve ever wondered if it’s too late to start again…
If you’ve ever felt that quiet tug to “make something beautiful”…
This episode will speak right to your heart.
E.J.’s story is a beautiful reminder that art isn’t just something we do — it’s something we are. It’s never too late to rediscover the parts of yourself that love to make, explore, and play.
So grab your tea, your paintbrush, or that long-forgotten creative project — and join us for a conversation that might just rekindle your creative spark.
Until next time, Craftonians — keep creating, keep listening to that inner artist, and keep saying yes to the call of beauty all around you. 💛
With love and laughter,
Joleen
PS: 🎥 Watch the full episode below:
Guest Bio
E.J. Klepinger is a professional artist, teacher, and president of Voyager Artists. Based in Two Harbors, Minnesota, he creates stunning acrylic and monochromatic wildlife paintings inspired by nature and emotion. His work is featured in local galleries, breweries, and public art spaces including Castle Danger Brewery and the Two Harbors Public Library, where he also serves as Artist in Residence. He’s exhibited across Minnesota and teaches workshops to help others reconnect with their creative spark.
Follow Eric
Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[00:00 – 06:00] — Joleen’s life update
[06:00 – 10:00] — Introducing E.J. Klepinger
[10:00 – 18:00] — E.J.’s evolving journey through mediums
[18:00 – 24:00] — Finding freedom in color and falling in love with acrylics
[24:00 – 33:00] — Growing up with “art as a hobby” — how early beliefs shape our creative path
[33:00 – 40:00] — Losing everything in 2009 and rebuilding a life through art
[40:00 – 47:00] — Balancing art, business, and heart — what it takes to live creatively
[47:00 – End] — Joleen and E.J. reflect on creative callings, courage, and the joy of answering the muse
Quotes from the Episode
“Those beliefs get planted in us so young — whether they’re true or not, we follow them almost blindly.” – E.J. Klepinger
“Art was my calling. And if I don’t answer that call, I’m just not happy.” – Joleen Emery
“You can rebuild your life through creativity. Sometimes losing everything gives you space to start painting again.” – E.J. Klepinger
“Creativity isn’t optional — it’s how we process, heal, and connect.” – Joleen Emery
Resources and Links
Follow E.J. Klepinger’s work and upcoming exhibitions at Voyager Artists
Visit Castle Danger Brewery in Duluth, MN to see his current gallery pieces
Learn more about Joleen’s retreats at Big Raven Farm
Check out Joleen’s yoga-inspired art mats and creative community at Big Raven Yoga
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