Every artist or writer asks one particular question. Where am I going to work? Will it be inside or outside, a basement or a bedroom? These are valid questions we ask ourselves. A dedicated studio or office space is important for an artist or writer because it is the place where we work. Although we may travel around to paint gardens or write in coffee shops, most work occurs in office spaces or studios. This assumes there is a dedicated space for it.
Every artist and writer sets up their office studio in a different way. For example, a writer’s office space may require plenty of light to see the papers on the desk. On the other hand, a photographer may require a darkroom to develop traditional prints. Another example would be videographers, such as those for YouTube or TikTok videos. These artists require space that provides ample backlighting to highlight the areas in need of focus. A painter may require access to running water to rinse brushes. A logo designer may require a large desk space for a computer with multiple monitors and other items spread across it. The list goes on!
Some further questions may include what we need in the space? An example includes a computer, a pen, and paper for a basic writer’s needs. Photographers will need an enlarger for their negatives as well as a place to store their equipment. Moreover, videographers will need a place for their subject matter to sit or stand and a space for their camera. That painter may require an easel, a brush stand, a sink, a table, and subject matter. The logo designer will operate best with a drawing tablet. In addition, they may need graphic design software on the computer. Nearly every artist will also need color swatches for comparison.
To conclude, I want to mention what my dream space would entail. I am an artist working in multiple art styles, including graphic design, painting, drawing, and writing, to name a few. As such, my dream space would have multiple elements as well. Ideally, I would like a space with indoor and outdoor spaces. Moreover, I require an area that could also efficiently house a desk with at least three monitors. The idea that comes to mind is to convert a greenhouse into an office and studio.
The natural light will create beautiful arrays of color. Any glass panes could be covered with darkening curtains as necessary. I, of course, would also require running water and air conditioning. If too much sunlight obscures a computer monitor, the blackout curtains can be drawn. The ceiling would have a covering that could be adjusted to provide more or less direct light.
Natural light would help because sunlight provides vitamin D, which can help with anxiety and depression. As I mentioned in a previous post, it is not uncommon for artists to exhibit one or both. An area that is lit naturally would be beneficial to an artist’s psyche. I know not every artist would dream of a space like this, but for me, this would be an artist and writer’s paradise.