Organizing & Creative Flow in your Art Space

We live in a Bavarian chalet so my studio is nestled at the top of our house in a space that was once used as a storage area. For years, I worked wherever I could…the dining table, in the car with a journal, outside, on the floor. You don’t need a large space to create. All you need is a pencil or paints and a journal! I put together a list of studio tools I have found to be very helpful over the years in helping my creative flow and to keep me (somewhat) organized no matter the size of your space.

FAVORITE ART SUPPLIES

For a list of my favorite art supplies, please visit our RESOURCES page. I will continuously update this page with new and evolving art supplies.

BRINGING YOUR TRAVELS

& ORGANIZATION TO YOUR SPACE

I love to collect eclectic or handmade items from my travels. Little reminders of the places I have been and the adventures I have enjoyed. I also look for items from estate sales, local artisans, and Etsy. My space is constantly changing but you will see objects throughout my studio that I have collected over the years. By adding used and handmade items, you can truly add a unique touch to your space!

I also love using baskets to store my supplies and junk! If my space feels crowded or cluttered, I have a difficult time focusing and creating. Keeping a clear and organized space opens up room for me to get to the things I love most!

CREATIVE STREAM IN YOUR SPACE

One of the most important concepts I think you can embrace in your space of any size is creative stream or flow. The space needs to work for your creative process. When I was working in a small space such as the dining table or a shared family desk, I would stack items or lay them under the table in order to go from one stage of my process to the next. I would also utilize baskets such as the African baskets shown in my studio to transport my supplies from one location to another. Take time to see what your creative flow looks like and what works best for you. My flow looks a little like this…

Move or exercise, write a to do list, meditate, art journal, business check in (social media, posts, emails etc.), film a class or create artwork

SOMETIMES SUBTRACTING IS THE BEST OPTION

After a trip to Japan, I really embraced a more minimal way of living. Not only were the environmental impacts a huge influence on the way I purchased art supplies but I also feel a sense of relief when I have space to breath, space to think, and most importantly, space to create.