In the studio

Workspace

This space is in constant motion. I use stools, spare tables, TV trays, and a rolling cart in rotation depending on what I’m working on. Sometimes I have several books open at once balanced precariously here and there while I work, pulling inspiration from favorite and new artists. The items on the walls are also always in motion. Often my walls will fill up with images, words, texture, paint samples, etc. but I can feel overwhelmed by the visual clutter and I find myself resetting to a blank wall to help me focus.

Lessons learned

I’ve ruined more brushes and articles of clothing than I can count. I ran a ceramics studio and learned the benefits of keeping your space organized and the rituals of preparing and cleaning your tools everyday. It seems basic, but for me it wasn’t. I used to only make art when I felt inspired or when something was due. I learned that I feel better when I make time for art as part of my self-care routine. When you make something part of your everyday and can’t find a certain marker or you grab a brush with dried paint on it you can become very discouraged. So now, I keep my space fairly organized, I keep track of my supplies and purchase what I need ahead of time, I put on my apron before I sit down, and I clean up after every session.