Christy Hydeck’s posted an informative and open video tour of her in-home art studio on her blog.  It’s entertaining, educational and and EXCELLENT example of some basic studio organizing tools using very inexpensive items.  Boxes from Ikea, tool bins from Target, and plastic rolling drawer units contain all her art supplies.  One of the most charming items she shares is hung from her lighting source and is a chain of charms from her life, followed by an embroidered piece from her mom and a corner curio from her grandmother.  I share this video because it is an excellent resource for the beginner artist or craftsperson who hopes to turn a spare room or space into an art place of their own.  

A word of caution.  Ultimately as you grow as an artist, the plastic bins will start to irritate you.  And if you’re the type who is easily inspired by some of the beautiful studios being featured in mainstream media, you’ll curse the day you ever bought those darned things (and then just try getting rid of them).  I always tell beginners who are establishing an art studio to think about whether wicker, cardboard and plastic will hold them over – sometimes is really is better to make a little bit more of an investment purchase in storage systems at the get go (glass, metal, wood).

 I hope you enjoy Christy’s video – also be sure to keep an eye out for how many projects she’s juggling at once.  This is another important element to consider in planning.  I am an advocate for additionally separating a space for the paperwork end of the arts business – I don’t see much of that in this video, but having a space and system to keep track of your contests, show dates, and submissions is essential – not to mention a running chronology of your works.