How Samantha Dion Baker Built a Creative Life Through Sketchbooks, Storytelling, and Simplicity

Interview by Ekaterina Popova
Artist, Founder of Create! Magazine, and Host of Art & Cocktails

In the latest episode of Art & Cocktails, I had the pleasure of speaking with Samantha Dion Baker, illustrator, author, and creative mentor known for her bestselling books Draw Your Day, Draw Your World, and her newest release Draw Your Adventures. Her work beautifully blends drawing, design, storytelling, and reflection, offering a compelling reminder that our everyday lives are rich with inspiration—if we choose to notice.

In our conversation, we explored how Samantha returned to drawing after two decades in the design world, the emotional power of visual journaling, and how she grew a vibrant creative practice on Substack. Whether you are looking to revive your sketchbook habit or share your art more intentionally online, Samantha’s story offers thoughtful insight and gentle encouragement.

Returning to Art by Starting Small

Samantha’s story is rooted in art. Growing up in a family of working artists, drawing was part of her daily life from a young age. However, like many creatives, she took a long break from personal artmaking while building a successful career in design. It was not until her early forties, after years of professional work and raising children, that she returned to her sketchbook—not for an audience, but for herself.

“I started with what felt easiest,” she said. “I drew letters, wrote words, played with my handwriting. I needed it to be fun and light in order to keep going.” Her advice to others is simple: begin with what you know and enjoy. The rest will follow.

Embracing Simplicity and Routine

When asked about materials, Samantha emphasized how keeping things simple helps sustain her creative flow. A pencil, pen, and portable sketchbook are all she needs. This minimalist approach eliminates decision fatigue and makes it easier to build consistency.

“You have to get to know your tools just like you get to know your own drawing style,” she explained. “Too many choices can slow you down. I recommend sticking with a few core materials so you can focus on the work itself.”

Sketchbooks as Memory, Meditation, and Meaning

Samantha’s sketchbooks are more than technical exercises. They serve as visual diaries, capturing daily life through a mix of illustration, text, and design. For her, this process is grounding and therapeutic.

“These pages hold personal stories,” she said. “Sometimes what I draw may seem simple to others, but to me it holds deep emotional meaning. A bowl of salad, a street sign, a museum visit—it all adds up to something much greater.”

This reflective practice helped Samantha not only reconnect with herself but also build an audience who resonated with her unique storytelling approach.

From Personal Practice to Published Books

Samantha never planned to write books. But after self-publishing a few small collections of her illustrated journal pages, she caught the attention of an agent and later a publisher. Initially hesitant about writing, she embraced the challenge and discovered a new layer of her voice.

“I didn’t think I could write 16,000 words,” she laughed. “But now writing is just as important to me as the drawings themselves. It connects me to others and deepens the meaning of my work.”

Today, she teaches drawing through online workshops and her Substack, where she shares her process, hosts group sketch sessions, and builds community with readers and fellow artists from around the world.

Creating a New Kind of Online Community

Like many artists, Samantha began feeling disconnected from social media platforms. Substack became a natural next step. There, she could blend image and writing, long-form storytelling, and meaningful interaction without the constant pressure of algorithm-driven content.

Her advice to artists considering Substack? “Start simple. You do not need to write essays every week. You can share images, observations, even just a drawing and a note. Build it in a way that works for your pace and your practice.”

An Invitation to See the World Differently

At its heart, Draw Your Adventures is not a how-to-draw book. It is a guide for paying attention, telling stories, and building a creative habit that reflects your life. Whether you are a full-time artist or someone just returning to art after a long break, Samantha’s work encourages you to begin with what you have and where you are.

“Just start,” she said. “Draw a line. Draw a stick figure. Draw your coffee mug. Whatever keeps you coming back to the page is enough.”

Learn More

Explore Samantha Dion Baker’s work:
Website: sdionbaker.com
Instagram: @sdionbakerdesign
Substack: samanthadionbaker.substack.com
Pick up a copy of Draw Your Adventures wherever books are sold.

This feature is presented by Create! Magazine.
For more interviews, artist features, and opportunities, visit www.createmagazine.com.

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