Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast
Welcome to the Happy Time Craft Cast with Joleen Emery, the podcast where crafting meets inspiration, laughter, and the wonderful art of making. Join Joleen, your crafting companion, as she takes you on an exciting journey into the world of creativity.
Discover the joy of crafting and find comfort in knowing that not everything goes perfectly the first time. Joleen's good humor, contagious laughter, and 'muscle it together until it fits' attitude will keep you entertained and motivated throughout your crafting adventures.
In each episode, we explore thrilling DIY projects, converse with talented artisans, and share heartwarming stories that celebrate the beauty of imperfection. Crafting isn't just a hobby; it's a way of life that brings happiness and fulfillment.
Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting, this podcast is your crafting community, offering inspiration and support. Embrace the ups and downs of your creative journey, finding joy in every crafty endeavor.
Get ready for a dose of creativity, motivation, and a whole lot of crafting goodness. Tune in to the Happy Time Craft Cast and let's make some happy crafting memories together!
Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast
How Nature Speaks Through Art with Naomi Christenson – Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast 74
Welcome to Episode 74 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast! Broadcasting straight from her delightfully “messy” workshop, Joleen shares retreat-season updates, fresh Big Raven Yoga art, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. She’s joined by Minnesota artist Naomi Christenson—a painter, dancer, and teacher inspired by nature’s colors, patterns, and quiet rhythms. Their conversation is a warm, art-filled wander through everyday creativity—mushrooms, leaves, family traditions, and the tiny details that make life feel magical. Naomi also reflects on balancing a multi-disciplinary creative life and how nature continually shapes her process, reminding us that creativity—like the outdoors—is ever-changing, imperfect, and full of wonder.
Guest Bio
Naomi Christenson is a painter, educator, and dancer based in Duluth, Minnesota. With a BFA and current MFA studies in painting, she draws inspiration from the natural rhythms of the world—color, movement, texture, and form. When she’s not creating in the studio, Naomi teaches tap dance and explores how motion, intuition, and nature influence her art.
Follow Naomi
Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[00:00 – 02:29] —Welcome from Joleen’s studio and retreat season reflections
[02:30 – 05:44] — Big Raven Yoga Mats
[05:45 – 07:59] — Guest intro: Naomi Christenson
[08:00 – 13:19] — Naomi’s creative journey
[13:20 – 18:59] — Multidisciplinary art and the challenge of defining yourself as a maker
[19:00 – 22:14] — How nature inspires Naomi’s work
[22:15 – 25:59] — Mushrooms as natural art forms—unexpected beauty and texture
[26:00 – 32:59] — Capturing inspiration: using photos, color references, and nature walks
[33:00 – 35:59] — The joy of imperfection and working intuitively
[36:00 – 41:59] — Community questions: favorite natural patterns, mushroom magic, and process
[42:00 – 44:59] — Lessons from nature about growth and transformation
[45:00 – End] — Final reflections
Quotes from the Episode
“I create from the rhythms and patterns I see in nature—color and movement are my language.” – Naomi Christenson
“You don’t have to be perfect to be creative; you just have to start.” – Joleen Emery
“Mushrooms are the best teachers—constantly changing, always surprising.” – Naomi Christenson
“Art is how we connect to the world and to each other.” – Joleen Emery
Resources and Links
Big Raven Yoga Mats
Big Raven Farm Retreats
Book Nook for Makers: Cut Paper Pictures by Clover Robin
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