How to Create an At-Home Art Studio

How to Create an At-Home Art Studio

Source: Artsper.

Creating your own art studio is a great way to dedicate yourself to an artistic practice. In addition to providing time and mental availability, having a dedicated space helps significantly with artistic creation. A space just for you, in which it is possible to imagine, to invent, to create without limits or distractions!

Find the right furniture

Setting up a home art studio doesn’t require that many materials. It’s mostly a matter of thinking about what you need. Because you may paint for hours, the easel seems to be the first piece of equipment to invest in. It will allow you to stay parallel to the canvas without straining your back. If you lack space, the use of a folding table and a tabletop easel are very useful. In any case, a stool or an adjustable chair is a must to avoid standing all day. Note that the perfect height for painting is when your face is in front of the center of the canvas. Seats with wheels offer great mobility, especially for moving away from your work and returning to it with ease.

Another detail that makes a difference: a sink. Having a place to wash up is a big plus. There is no need to overload the space, as you will also need room to dry and store your paintings.

home art studio
Hans Hartung in his studio, Ateliers, © Yoyo Maeght

The home art studio: a space that reflects you

Your studio is your space. You can do whatever you want in it and arrange it in a way that suits you. For some, it will be a well-ordered and reassuring space, where everything is in its place. For others, it could be a space in which organized clutter is an integral part of the atmosphere and identity. However, keep in mind that dust is the enemy of paint! You will need to clean your studio frequently to preserve the quality of your work. This place should also be a respite for relaxation and daily inspiration. You can place armchairs in your studio, listen to music and relax. Being in contact with nature is also an element that stimulates creativity. So don’t hesitate to have some plants in your studio.

Jackson Pollock creating in his studio, 1950, © Hans Namuth

The importance of good lighting

Good lighting is essential to a home art studio. Even more important than the size of the space, this element requires great attention. Ideally, you should have good natural light, which offers the best color rendition. To be able to work and create in the evening, you should also have artificial lights. Choose white light bulbs, or daylight, to preserve the best color rendition. Also, don’t hesitate to get mobile or flexible lamps, so that you can move the lighting around for more precision.

La Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s home studio, © Musee Frida Kahlo

Have ergonomic storage

Whether it’s messy or well organized, the art studio should have plenty of storage space. On a daily basis, it is essential that paint pots, brushes and other equipment be easily accessible. In order to work in good conditions, the ideal is to have a fixed creative support and many mobile tools. A desert table, or a desk with wheels, is very practical. Several open shelves will also allow you to store your material or your finished paintings. You can also use chair rails, a clothes drying rack or a wire and clothespins to dry your work. Finally, the floor should be easily washable. Choose tile, vinyl or terracotta rather than carpeting.

An example of home art studio, © Kelly Rae Roberts

The home art studio: a source of inspiration

Dedicating a space for creation is the best way to start professionalizing your art. More than that, it can be a space that feels rejuvenating. Why, then, not take inspiration from the studios of artists you particularly appreciate? Discovering their workplaces can give you excellent home art studio ideas to enhance your creativity. It’s up to you!