Every artist is unique, and each has their ideal environment in which to work. Nevertheless, all artists need to consider some fundamentals in designing their artistic space. We take you through some of those decisions.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Your creativity can be hampered if you have to work in a noisy place, handle interruptions, or do not have the privacy to let go and immerse yourself in the process. Some people don’t mind being watched while they paint or draw, while others find it distracting or start playing to the crowd instead of following their artistic inclinations. This is why choosing the perfect spot is the most important consideration.
Preferably, it is best to choose a place away from the main home areas. This could mean renting a studio, but that is a costly option. If you have to make do with what is available, you could select an outdoor shed or the garage. Other artists have to be satisfied with something a little less private, such as a spare bedroom, basement, attic, or a portion of a room that already has another purpose. Sometimes you can find a suitable spot outdoors.
Read on to find out what other aspects you need to take into account before settling on your workspace.
Creating Your Environment
Do you function best with cheerful, sunny walls or pristine white? Do you want to keep family photos nearby or choose a few special items that speak to your creativity? Do you work best seated or standing up and moving around? These questions will help you decide what type of chair is best (stool, office swivel chair with wheels), whether to repaint the room and what to exclude from your space.
What furniture will you need (desk, chair, table, stand, easel)? How will you set up your supplies for easy reach? Is there a working sink where you can wash up and clean supplies? How will you protect your flooring (remove carpet, install linoleum, put down plastic sheets)?
Disturbances
Ban yourself from social media while you work. If possible, leave your mobile phone outside your studio or put it on silent. Get agreement from your family on noise levels. Chaos and art are not good friends.
Decide if you work best with music or in silence. Then consider a Work from Home Headset to ensure that you only hear what inspires you. A good option is noise-canceling headphones with microphones that face outward. These use waves to dispel any sound beyond you.
Lighting
You will need access to natural light in your artistic space. If that isn’t possible, you can use incandescent light bulbs. These should provide full-spectrum lighting. Consider what lighting you will need for night-time.
Ventilation
Your studio needs to be well-ventilated. It is toxic to work in a room that has no fresh air when you are using oil paints and turpentine. At the very least, you will end up with a headache. A ceiling fan will provide extra circulation but make sure you have windows to supply fresh air.
Setting up the perfect space for your artwork will free your creative juices and give you many hours of productive, rewarding fulfilment.
