Creative Spaces

One of my favorite things to do is peek at other creative people's workspaces. I love artists' studios and sewing rooms and writers' desks, and always find inspiration there. I'm hardly alone. Artist Kate Robertson entered a friend's studio, stayed to do some work, and found inspiration there. Here is her story:

I had an experience a few weeks ago at a friend’s studio that has sparked my creativity in a different way. As part of a collaborative project I was invited to Jennifer's studio to help make clay pots. I have worked in clay a little but am by no means an expert. I had met Jennifer about six months ago and was interested in seeing her work, so the trip to the studio was one I was looking forward to.

When I first walked in I was greeted by a wash of bright color. It literally took my breath away. I thought to myself, “Oh this is an artists’ house. “ I have been to other artists’ homes and sometimes their art is hidden away in a studio or other room. In others it is right out for everyone to see. These artists seem to exude such creativity that it comes out in every facet of their lives.
The first room was a showroom that was painted in a beautiful shade of green with some faux painted elements to it. Jen had all her pieces for sale in this room. Some were feminine faces done in Porcelain and others were tall guardian figures in Raku and porcelain, and there were also smaller pieces. It was wonderful to see all that art in one place. As I walked further into the studio I found several small rooms all painted in vibrant colors and all of which had art on the walls.

As we worked on the clay project, I had a unique vantage point. I could see into three of the other rooms. To my right was a beautiful shade of yellow highlighted in shades of orange. To my left I could see the green room and in front of me I could see a brilliant turquoise. I am a woman who loves color and this was such a delight for me. At one point it reminded me of being in New Mexico, where the color and light are really amazing. I sat there looking at my surroundings, working with my hands in clay with other women who were doing the same and it was total bliss. We made some beautiful things that day and I have used that image and feeling back home many times. A beautiful space just sparks those creative juices to flow.

I have my own studio in my house and its vision is a little different. I created something calm and soothing, like a summer beach house. My walls are aqua and I have accented pieces in blue, green and lavender. I have art on the walls too; some of it my own and others from favorite artists of mine. It’s a place I can go to and shut off the world and create beautiful things.
I think a space is important to foster one's creativity whether that be art, writing , or cooking. I know that some of us do not have that luxury of having their own studio and their space may be a small corner of a room. I think you can still capture that essence as your own by hanging a painting or a print or quotes that inspire you. If you can own that space for yourself, you will find that it will help get you in that creative zone easier and you will be more productive.