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Many years ago, I saw a panoramic photograph of Sabrina Ward Harrison’s studio. An open loft with canvases stretched from floor to ceiling, paintings in progress joined an array of other artful projects lined side-by-side in this kaleidescope of color and creativity. I had yet to claim my place as an artist, but all I could think was I want that.
What is it about creative spaces that inspire us? What is it about having a place to call one’s own that makes anything seem possible?
When we moved to our current house, I was delighted to discover an extra staircase leading to a third floor. Are you going to make this space your studio? friend after friend asked as I gave them the tour of our latest, greatest rental. It was the most logical next step in my development as an artist, but I wasn’t ready to make the space my own. So I turned “my studio” into a guest room. Then I rented it out to a young 20-something--for a year! It was only after a trip to Africa that I realized I needed to stop fooling around and take full advantage of the incredible privilege I’d been given. It was time to unpack all those canvas bags full of supplies I’d been toting around to coffee shops for so many years. My paints and paper needed a home.
I painted the little room at the top of the stairs a lovely robin’s egg blue and bought a drawing table on sale at the art store down the street the next day. I scoured the house to find all the art supplies I had tucked away in various drawers and boxes and brought them upstairs where they belonged. Then I taped a Georgia O’Keeffe poster on one wall and a map of Africa on the other to keep me inspired. I've spent long hours in that studio ever since, letting the solitude of that space refine and renew me.
Seeing someone else’s creative space—whether it’s a full-fledged loft or a sacred corner of your desk—can help you claim your work as an artist. Seeing how another artist organizes her space can expand your sense of what is possible in yours. To get you started, consider On My Desk. One of my favorite artists Linzie Hunter created this blog to highlight the creative spaces of artists. Take a peek at these desks and see what comes up as you consider your own projects and work space.
Andi Butler's studio is half work, half play--a workable space for a mother of small children. Check out her blog at Gee, That's Swell.
Graphic designer Kim Carney sports the most fantastic wall units and organizers to keep her work space clutter free. Check out her blog Something to Say.
I adore the way artist Tamsin Ainslie utilizes her wall space to keep her work space fresh and inspired. Check out this Australian blogger here.
Illustrator Annie Bissett's studio pictures were especially helpful. All her tools are noted on the photos so you know exactly what's what in her highly organized, efficient space. Her blog Woodblock Dreams contains illustrative photographs illuminating her process.
Are you struggling to claim your creative space? Do you have photos of your studio space that might inspire others? I'd love to hear more about what having a creative space means to you in the comments below. And of course, links to your studio photos are more than welcome.
