Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Interactive Studio Blog Project
Pam Farrell has an interesting project going on her blog. She gives a peek into artists' studios from all over the world, and it's fascinating to see the different and various creative work spaces. This week she featured my studio, and one of my paintings. My studio is very neat and organized; this is necessary since it's quite a small space. It occupies the largest bedroom in my house, but it has been feeling cramped lately. However, the light is superb and I live in a beautiful location surrounded by mountains and desert vistas. I have been considering renting a larger space in town, which would mean a commute of about half an hour every day into Santa Fe. But I think I need to stay put, not just because of the economy. I find some of my best creative ideas happen at dawn or in the evening just before going to bed. I would miss that very intimate connecting time with my work, when it seems all of Nature conspires to inspire me. I would also miss the presence of my animal companions, who bring a loving and innocent energy into my working space.
I think you're right Diane, there is an intimacy at home that isn't found at a location studio. I work both in a converted bedroom and also the kitchen table. The kitchen table is only lately since I had a flood in my basement where my studio is.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to seeing more of your paintings. I came across your work from Rebecca's blog.
peace,
harold
I have recently moved from an apartment to a house where I have a small room in the basement to use as a studio space. But I still have my larger studio space about 15 minutes away, and I find I'm torn between the two. Home is so much more comfortable (for all the reasons you stated), but the studio space allows me to paint larger and has better light. So, for now I have both, but I find I'm staying at home more often than traveling to the studio.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments, Harold and Angela.
ReplyDeleteHarold, I agree the intimacy one has with a home studio probably touches the work in a deep way, which is always a good thing, eh? So sorry to hear about the flood, but I'm glad no work was damaged.
Angela, I often wonder if I had another studio space outside the home, which one would I end up using more. Thanks for your input - it confirms my decision to stay put for now.
The paintings are becoming real. They are pulling you forward in a powerful blossoming process. Go to it! Maybe the gifts of Jupiter are not money and fame, this time around, they are paintings.
ReplyDeleteDiane: I worked in a bedroom recently myself. But we had a building built, part wood shop, part studio. It is unfinished as my husband, who works full time, does all the completion work himself. It is wonderful to be able to walk across the driveway and paint. I don’t care at all that I don’t have real walls; just insulation for now. And now that I am thinking I will paint larger, I will have to rethink how I will use the space. My first “studio” was a board placed across my washing machine and dryer! I enjoy seeing your paintings and studio space, and I really enjoy your blog and your thoughts on art.
ReplyDeleteYour work and your studio are beautiful! I would think it would be hard to leave such a lovely place to paint! I also love the companionship that pets bring while we paint! I often find that I will paint longer if my cat is sleeping on my lap! Thank you for visiting my blog and for giving me inspiration to keep my own space organized and enjoyable! I would love to see it in person if I am in the area again soon!
ReplyDeleteI agree, I have a garden studio, the light isn't wonderful but I can be myself and contemplate, play and be alone. I love being around nature with the birds for music and the sound of the leaves rustling in the wind. I do most of my painting outside, weather permitting.
ReplyDelete