What is the number one thing I’ve changed that has improved my artwork? You may think it’s a particular tool or a new technique that I’ve learned. You may guess it has to do with scheduling or even a shift in mindset. And while all of those things can improve your artwork and have, in fact, done so for me at various times in my life, you may be surprised to find out that the number one thing that has made a difference for me recently has been creating a dedicated area to do my artwork.
I’ve always envisioned a beautifully curated art studio designed with custom furniture, but I also knew that I could never afford the look of my dreams. Finally, instead of waiting until I could have a picture-perfect studio, I decided to settle for the perfect “for now” setup. I’m so glad I did!
In the past I’ve set up work stations at the dining room table or the coffee table in the living room. Invariably I would need to clear the table before I was finished. Oftentimes, it would deter me from starting a new project or even finishing up a previously started project. Just the thought of having to set up and take down before and after was enough to change my mind and burst my bubble of creative enthusiasm.
Now, perhaps you already have an art studio or room set aside for just that. Lucky you! But for me, this is the first time in my life that I’ve finally set aside a dedicated space to create art. And even though it is only just a corner in a room, it is MY corner where I get to leave projects mid-work and not worry about it taking up needed space.
Since I couldn’t afford my dream art room, I carved out a corner of my front porch and called it my art studio. That’s not to say I didn’t think about the design and function of my workspace. I considered how I wanted my space to feel and figured that making it more personal and meaningful would translate to loving the time spent there. I also didn’t want to spend a fortune so I definitely worked within a budget, mostly using what I had on hand already.
Desk:
My studio is particularly special because the desk I’m using belonged to my late grandfather, and it brings me joy having this daily reminder of him.
Chair:
Your space doesn’t have to be expensive in order to be meaningful and full of creative energy. We found my perfect chair at a local rummage sale, as well as the jars I use for holding pens and brushes.
Walls/Windows:
I do not have a lot of wall space to hang motivational quotes or bulletin boards to keep me on track, but what I do have are windows all around. And actually, I prefer the windows! They provide inspiration with every glance out into nature. Because I believe “less is more” having less wall space translates to less wall clutter and more room for imagination.
Storage:
Just a simple cube bookcase keeps my supplies and resources in order and within easy reach. The less often I need to get up to search for something in another room, the less likely I will become distracted and break my creative flow. My bookcase was a craigslist find that I inherited from my daughter’s room when she didn’t need it any longer.
Since setting up my own area, I’ve not only created more artwork but I’ve had more joy in doing it. When I look at my new space, I smile knowing that I’ll be there soon and look forward to it. It is much easier to walk away in the middle of a project knowing that everything will be exactly as I left it when I return. Having an area to call my own has also helped me take my artwork more seriously. It’s a workspace where I expect more of myself. It’s not huge, nor is it elaborate, but it works for me. I’m sure over time it will morph and grow, as I will too. In fact, I’ve already changed the layout from when I initially set it up. It is certainly a far cry from my dream studio, but it’s my little slice of heaven that has undoubtedly improved my artwork.
What’s your workspace like? I’d love to hear about it!
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