No Huge Easel or Gigantic North Windows, but...

Patricia Joyce · 10-18-2007, 10:43 AM

My studio is beginning to shape up now that I am back in Cleveland. I am lucky to have two fairly large north light windows, and a west window I have to block with sheers on some days. The room measures 24" x 12' and has a cathedral ceiling. The light is great almost all day. Right now I only paint during the day because I do not have artificial lights yet. But here are a couple pics of my easel which I received from the convent, it is a huge workhorse and I love it.

I created my work station on a small budget by building $35 "put-it -together-yourself" filing cabinets, a credenza between (do you recognize it Julie?!) and a 24" x 54" piece of solid pine. Now I have a good place to store my papers.

I would have to say Erin is a mainstay on my "artist's couch" always enticing me to naptime, and my greatest inspiration to do Yoga everyday is my granddaughter, Alex!! Overall I love being in my studio and I wish this for every artist.

Linda Brandon · 10-18-2007, 11:04 AM

This setup looks wonderful, Pat, I'm so happy for you!

I can't see your floor under your easel but make sure you have some soft rubber mats to stand on; that ceramic tile is tough to take after a few hours.

Looks like you've got a dog in Happy Baby position and a happy baby in Lotus.

Patricia Joyce · 10-18-2007, 12:49 PM

Both my dog Erin and Alexandra. You might imagine Alex is my muse and I am sketching her all the time! This one was when we were at the beach this summer on vacation. From life!!

I do not have a rubber mat, have been relying on rugs and shoes. Where would you suggest I look for these mats?

Thanks

Linda Brandon · 10-18-2007, 12:53 PM

Pat, I got mine at Costco a while ago, but a Google search would surely reveal them also. They weren't expensive.

Enzie Shahmiri · 10-18-2007, 08:36 PM

Pat, it looks like you have a nice light filled room and plenty of space to spread out. Happy painting!

Judy Simons · 10-19-2007, 11:22 AM

Hi Pat,
I use interlocking anti-fatigue soft tiles bought at Lowe's or Home Depot, I can't remember which but I think both stores carry them.

Soft tiles are foam, about 1 foot square and the edges fit together so you can make them into whatever size you need.

Mine are about 7 years old and they're still structurally sound and great for my feet and legs.

You can see them here:

http://www.softtiles.com/?gclid=COqh...FQspFQodq2xueg

Patricia Joyce · 10-19-2007, 01:28 PM

Thanks Linda and Enzie. As artists I think it is good to have inspiration all around you, drawings from Michelangelo, Rubens, Bargue plates, cast heads, a good mirror (thank you again, Julie!) and a place to ponder, read publications and study your work. Though the room is not that big I feel I have enough for the essentials.

Judy, I am going out this weekend to get those tiles. They sound wonderful

Have a full and happy weekend