There is a lot of information on how to set up an art studio or creative space. However, I have found that it comes down to personal trial and error. One major lesson I have learned through setting up my art studio thus far is....to each their own. The way one artist practices in their creative process may be entirely different from yours. I am going to share with you some things that I include in my art space and practice. Some practical, some aesthetic and inspirational.... because we all could use a little inspiration, right?!
A Paint Palette
I like to call this half practical, half inspiration. I mean a paint palette is a necessity for any art practice, but a beautiful circular, ceramic paint palette really takes it up a notch! And I must admit I'm a bit biased, I love circles. Hey, I'm an artist, what can I say! (shrugs shoulders)
But seriously, having a paint palette or two, or three, or four, well you get the picture. Having a paint palette has allowed me to experiment with paint mixing and blending. This one from sugarhouse ceramic co. is one the most recent to my growing collection.... isn't she a beauty!
A Towel
I know what you're thinking...a towel Wren! Yes a towel. Art gets messy...... really messy! I began using paper towels to blot excess paint and water from my paint brushes, clean up messes in the studio, etc. But I soon noticed that I was using way too much. I wanted to find a way to decrease the amount of waste created during painting and also decrease my trips to the store for more paper towels.
Having a few towels handy at my art station makes it so easy to dab my paint brushes and to keep my space nice and tidy. But here's the added bonus. The blended paint on the towel makes for a cute art moment. Here's a tip: I stick to thin towels with minimal lint, preferably 100% cotton or linen. You can throw them in the wash when you're done.... or not. Thank me later.
A Display of Your Work
I love to step into my studio in the morning, coffee in hand and be greeted by colors and compositions of florals dancing all around me. Oh, just the thought of it while writing this is getting me so excited! I keep a pinboard with various things from my recent work, to quotes or articles. Sometimes I even cut photos from my favorite home decor pamphlets. I like to think of it as my own personal Pinterest!
I highly suggest keeping a few inspirational muses around you. Be it your own work, clippings from magazines, or really anything that enlivens you. The key here is to stay uplifted and motivated every time you step into your studio.
Books, Books and more Books
I love books, (Hello enneagram 5!) and always tend to have one close by. Having books in my studio space really helps me to keep the creative juices flowing. In our modern digital era, I know that having physical books may seem a bit.... well...ancient. But books provide a wonderful tactile experience and encourages you to get off that device.
Books can inform your art practice in many ways such as, providing accessible sources of inspiration and beauty. In addition, books can provide solutions to a problem, and give points of view outside your own. I highly encourage having books in multiple genres. You may be surprised that while reading a poetry book, you may find your aha moment.
A Good Paintbrush
Ok I have this thing with paintbrushes.....I want to try them all! Really every single one ever made. But...I don't think that's possible or beneficial. Here's why.
Getting to know your brushes is an intimate process. How does it feel to? What kind of marks can it make? How much medium can it handle? How does it perform over time? (i.e. wear and tear) These are all things that are important. The brushes you use don't necessarily have to be expensive. I started with a few very inexpensive brushes. But they work for me and I still continue to use them to this day. So I encourage you to find a brush you like and get to know it....it's like dating essentially.
So, I have a gift for all my readers. Sign up for my email newsletter in the next 24 hours and I will send you a set of pointed round paintbrushes you see pictured above in the brown planter. (U.S and Canada residents only). Times are hard, gas price are up and inflation is crazy...we could all use a little freebie. Am I right?!
Thanks for reading and we'll talk again soon ok!
xoxo
