Home studio vs external studio
Earlier this year I moved my studio practice into my home. The decision wasn't easy as my studio was large and I had continually improved its layout to support my process. And my home doesn't have a room that lends itself to becoming a studio. So now I'm making my art in the entrance way, lounge room and laundry - yes, you guessed it - all through my house.
Work table and storage in my home entrance way
Actually the decision was easy and made in an instant once it occurred to me that my weird and unexplained health 'turns' could be due to the musty, mouldy and efflorescent filled studio. (I've had no subsequent 'turns' since so I won't be moving back.)
Now it's been a couple of months I feel I can talk about the pros and cons of having a studio space in your home versus one away from home.
Home studio pros
I can dip in and out of my art making on my way from the kitchen to the bathroom.
It's always front of mind - mainly because I can see it everywhere.
I save over an hour a day commute time.
Easy access to extraneous tools like computer and food.
It's free.
Home studio cons
Art making creep - my stuff seems to be in every room now.
No disconnection. I find that when I'm not thinking about it is when I will get epiphanies.
Distraction is far too easy.
I miss my audio book time on my commute, so now I listen while I'm working. It's become a bit of an obsession.
Some of my laundry take-over
External studio pros
Make a mess (creating) and simply leave it as is, to pick up again tomorrow.
Separation from everyday life allows for creative thinking.
Feels more professional and therefore prompts more professional actions.
Creative freedom and privacy within the space.
External studio cons
There is usually a cost involved in having the space.
Any mess (dried paint lumps on the floor) and structural changes (my hanging walls) will have to be made right when moving out.
Gosh, I can't think of a third one!
Hangers of painted sheets on my lounge room wall
Life throws up challenges it seems and my challenge at present is to control my creativity within the designated areas of my home, while limiting the mess and damage I make. Can you think of any tips for me?