David Hack, Freelance Writer

Studio Space – Artfully Done

Painter. Sculptor. Draftsman. Potter. There isn’t an artist who hasn’t entertained notions of what an ideal studio space might contain. Although each media will dictate specific needs, there are some common requirements. Work space, adequate light, storage, ventilation, display space and electrical supply are needs for all.

Mark Messner, a Cedar Rapids watercolorist and cartoonist, operates in a space approximately 15 feet square. However, Julie Sawyers or Tom Newport, both metal sculptors from Cedar Rapids, feel that 24 feet square with 12 foot ceilings is more appropriate for their art. In any case, each of these artists agrees that it is important that an artist work in an area that allows works in progress to be close at hand.

That space needs to include work surfaces, preferably moveable. Storage can be built into the work tables. Raw materials as well as tools need to be contained somewhere easily accessible. Glass artists need vertical compartments and draftsmen need horizontal drawers. “I want open shelves with everything in its place,” commented Sawyers.

Lighting must be adequate; obviously, the artist must be able to see what is being created. Natural lighting is wonderful as in a sunroom with windows on three walls. However, Messner adds that artificial lighting should also be abundant so that work isn’t limited to bright daytime hours. This can be provided with fluorescent tubes, strip lighting, standard fixtures or some combination of light sources.

The electrical supply must be sufficient to handle the requirements of tools, extra lighting, and a sound system. Specialized equipment such as a kiln or welder may require an additional circuit of 220 volts. In her ideal situation, Sawyers considered future expansion of work requirements for possible addition of circuits and outlets.

Adequate ventilation is critical. Many art forms include work with noxious materials that can cause serious health problems. Being able to bring fresh air into the space, remove harmful fumes and control the heat or coolness is ideal.

Display space is another feature of great importance. “Ideally, I’d like to have an entire corkboard wall,” Messner explained. Tom Newport knows of an artist who has made the walls of his home a gallery and has opened his home to potential buyers. Sawyers has her work located throughout her home and yard.

Other features of an ideal studio include a water supply nearby. A floor drain helps to maintain a clean studio space. For movement of larger works of art, an overhead garage door is a plus. Newport suggests that if the artist makes art a business, a small office area for handling paperwork is needed. And the place must always be flexible. Needs change within a single media and frequently artists will mix media or move from one to another.

Doing art in a space that is aesthetically pleasing encourages and enhances good work. Looking out large windows onto idyllic scenes stimulates creative thought. Having plants nearby and being able to play “one’s tunes” enhances the artistic process.

Art works may come from the muse through the artist, but the place where that happens can be as artfully done as the works themselves.

CEDAR RAPIDS GAZETTE, "Parade of Homes", September 15, 2002