Art Studio: 2020 Tour
Something is motivating about being in a clean and organized room. There’s also something about a large, barren desk that invites creativity to manifest itself. Up until now, I haven’t had a space like that. Then 2020 roared in with Coronavirus, entrapping me to the confines of my home art studio. Suddenly I realized my setup needed to evolve to encourage me to even WANDER into that part of my house.
So I ditched the cramped, metal desk my computer sat at and collapsed the cheap, plastic folding table. With valuable, carpet real-estate finally open, I was able to move in two, spacious desks with storage and subsequently transformed the entire room.
After organizing the desks, it was easy to admire how much better my art studio felt. The room resembles an actual studio – one comparable to a space you might spot on YouTube or Instagram. It’s a modest step forward, but it’s a step I want to share with you. Welcome to my 2020 Studio Tour!
Desks: Having Space to Get Creative
There is a two-desk system in place with each desk serving as a workspace. I work full time as a graphic designer and afterward I pick up freelance design work to help bankroll my site fees and art supply costs. This particular desk keeps my computer, a sketchbook, a few frequently used supplies, and my printer.
There’s also a space for my purse and my Xbox. Additionally, there’s enough space for a dog bed below – something my furry coworker appreciates!
Keeping only scant tools at a time on the desktop is beneficial in a few ways. The minimalism allows enough open space for my sketchbook and beverages, as well as assists in keeping me focused on my screen (rather than the objects around me).
The second desk is where art is born and is only just across the room. There’s a wooden sea of open space to spread out multiple sketchbooks with a lamp – sublime for somber winter evenings when there is no natural light. Alternatively, I can use the tabletop for working on acrylic paintings either on the flat surface or with an easel for an angled approach.
Moreover, the shelves below the desks are phenomenal game-changers. The plastic folding table could only keep the supplies that were in use on top of the table with all other supplies kept in the closet. Now I can store additional supplies within reach – which means all the more motivation to put them to use!
Storage: Having Space to Grow
Finally, we come to the closet. Now, I imagine other artists can relate when I say I’m something of a supply hoarder. I have a camera, light setup, several pads of paper, and a myriad of supplies that aren’t typically used other than when I’m feeling adventurous. There’s also my ten-year-old iMac (nearly a teenager!) and my filing cabinet. The other half of the closet is storage just for other hobby materials and miscellaneous dog gear.
The shelving is an outstanding resource for organizing and taking advantage of the abundant vertical space. Belongings can be grouped as well as kept off the floor. However, it’s important not to overload the closet with TOO much equipment so enough space is left over for shipping materials arriving soon
It’s incredible how new furniture can change an entire room. The desks are the motivation that I needed! For the first time, the room is a place I’m comfortable being in for extended periods. Since there is plenty of room for improvement, be sure to look for an updated art studio tour this time next year.
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