Annually, I move my art studio temporarily for a month-long stay at our remote mountain cabin. And every year it is a challenge to figure out how to suddenly take my lovely spacious studio down to a car load. I don’t have a nice set of check lists, though I suppose that would be a good idea.
Click to visit my studio
Have you ever tried to do this? It is all about choices. What do I take? What can I leave behind? Do I really NEED this or that?
Over the years I have built up my supplies and art stuff to the point where I have access to materials that satisfy most of my creative whims. I am grateful and I love it. However, this is not possible in a small room in our cabin.
Before I begin gathering up “stuff” – those lovely art materials – I try to ask myself some general questions, such as, “What is my opportunity to explore this year? Is there an area or subject I want to focus on?”
What Do I Pack for My Temporary Studio?
Usually I have a series that I am working on or a show to paint for, but this year the slate is clean, which is kind of scary and a topic for a later post. Hence, do I pack my studio to accommodate wherever my painting inspiration takes me or do I pack with limited materials?
Often, I have discovered, fewer options forces me to dive deeper into my creative sphere. I also remind myself that this self-imposed retreat, which I cherish, is only for a month.
Which brush to take?
Moving my art studio temporarily is still not easy. I look at all of my brushes and palettes knives and ponder which dozen or so go with me?
Then there are all of my paints, things I use to create textures, color charts, sketch book, tracing paper, photo reference materials, etc. The list can go on and on. Oh, and I cannot forget some of my favorite art books!
Do I need every tube of paint?
For fun, even if you do not transport your studio anywhere, try to decide what you might take and what you would leave behind. (BTW, this is different from painting on location where everything you bring is portable and you can carry on your back.)
My portable office.
For my art business materials and information, I have a laptop computer and a portable plastic box for hanging files, paper and general office supplies.
Then there are those special items you just cannot forget ….such as chocolate! It does facilitate the creative process. 😆
A necessary food item.
Do you think it would be easy or difficult for you temporarily move your art studio?
Please share this post with others.
Together, let’s bring more beauty into the world!
Love that you can pack up some supplies and go to a retreat place to create. I would have to pack up a loom, yarn, and other weaving equipment. Not an easy task. I’ve tried to limit myself to non-loom weaving techniques when we fly to Florida but even that gets cumbersome and weights my suitcase so that it becomes a major task. I’m envious that your work is more portable and that you can drive to a quiet, inspirational place. However, living in Colorado sounds pretty inspirational all on its own! Have a great month on retreat. Judy
HI Judy; True how some artmaking just is not conducive to packing and travel. One of the reasons we moved to CO is for its beauty and to be closer to the cabin. I just wish I had elves who could do the maintenance and even come in to some cleaning. LOL! The cabin is my sacred place and I cherish every minute I am there. Thanks for your comments. Keep weaving!
Yes, elves would be helpful in a number of instances around my studio and home too! Make sure to post some pictures of the lovely scenic inspiration. I’ll live vicariously through your camera lens! 🙂
Judy, thanks for the reminder. I will take more photos this year of my time at the cabin. 🙂
We travel every summer to get out of the heat of central Texas. Like you I have to decide what to take and what to leave behind. I have a large plastic bin and pack it full. I also have a carry bag for my plein air stuff that folds flat so that goes in as well. I pack a separate case for my iPad, sketchbook, cords, camera and things I might need in hotels on the way to our rental which has been in Angel Fire, New Mexico the last few years. So far it has been plenty of fun and inspiration. I paint with pastels and acrylics. I use a bit of watercolor for sketching with my pens. Nice to find your blog, I will be checking on you!
HI Jo! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your story about needing to pack your studio and office every year. I have driven through Angel Fire (a couple of times on a drive from Colorado to Santa Fe) but never stopped. Wow, what a beautiful place. Oh, and feel free to “check on me” any time. 🙂