One line from a section of Julia Cameron’s book stuck out to me, ” As artists, we must learn to create our own safe environments.” For me, that safe environment is my studio. My studios have taken on different forms, mainly dictated by the places where I’ve lived: a corner of a kitchen, a whole living room, a separate room converted into a creative space. I am grateful that I am back in a living space where I can have a separate, dedicated room for my studio. I always know where things are, and whatever is in progress stays where it is. I also love having the ability to shut the door. It is like shutting the door on the outside world so I can enter my creative zone. Today, I am opening the door to share my studio with you!

Art Table/Art Supplies

My dad purchased this glass topped dining room table for me as a housewarming gift when I was in my 20s. While initially I set it up nicely with chairs and table settings, I barely used it. This changed when I decided to make it my art table in the corner of my kitchen in Massachusetts. It was the perfect size for spreading out my art supplies, and it received daily use. I also love that it has a fancy, French vibe with the scroll work (which is very me). I use a tabletop easel for completing my illustration work.

Reading/Writing Chair

I love this cozy chair with the pillows and blanket. It is perfect for reading, and even more perfect for writing. I have a great view of my whole studio from this chair, and often just seeing different parts of the space gets my creative ideas flowing.

Reading Nook

I converted a closet into a cozy reading space. It is filled with pillows and a blanket, and of course, a small bookshelf to house my latest reading projects. I also use this space for meditation. The base of the lap projects moons and stars on the dark walls, and makes it seem more spiritual and mystical.

Tea Bar

Some people have carts for cocktails. I choose to have a cart set up for tea. It contains everything I need to make a great cup of tea – an electric teakettle, tea diffusers, mugs, and different varieties of tea to suit my mood. The best part about it is not having to walk all the way to the kitchen when I want tea, which would wreck my creative flow.

Lighting

Lighting is very important for setting the right mood. I tend to love content that is whimsical and magical, so strategically placed fairy lights, lamps, and candles are vital. This street lamp dripping with hot air balloons is my favorite source of lighting. Right now, I’m burning candles that smell like autumn – crisp leaves, apples, and hints of cinnamon.

Books

No space of mine would be complete without books. These are not just any books though – they are my favorite books to help me stay inspired as I work on creating my own stories. I have a adored books since I starting reading around the age of 3. I have had many interests over the years that have peaked and faded, but my love for books has never waned. This is why I’ve decided to make books the main subject matter of my creative work.

These are the main components that make this a safe space for me to express myself as an artist. Do you have a safe space in your home where you create? If so, please share in the comments. I love hearing about the creative spaces of other artists and creatives.