As an artist, your studio is more than just a workspace—it’s a personal haven, a place where ideas come to life and where you can explore your creativity without distraction. Whether you have a spacious studio or a cozy corner, setting up your art studio space to truly work for you can make all the difference in how you feel while creating.
A well-designed studio doesn’t have to be fancy or overly organised, but it should inspire you, provide comfort, and offer easy access to the materials you need. The best part? You don’t need a massive area to make a space that sparks creativity—small spaces can be equally inviting and functional. In this guide, we’ll go over everything from lighting to workspace essentials to help you create a studio that feels like a true extension of yourself.
Lighting That Works with Your Art (and Mood)
Good lighting is an artist’s best friend, and getting it right is key to seeing your colours, details, and textures as they are. Natural light is ideal for most artists because it’s softer, more diffused, and brings out the truest tones in your work. If your space has a window, make the most of it by positioning your workstation near the natural light source. North-facing windows are especially prized in art studios because they provide consistent light throughout the day without harsh shadows or colour changes.
Find studio inspirations from other artists, and jot down things you would like to incorporate in your own space. Artist Kristin Romberg works in an incredibly inspiring studio space. In her words - "I’m fortunate to work in diverse spaces, from a communal studio in an old hydrogen factory to a vast, borrowed shipyard. These spaces allow me to experiment and create on a large scale, further enhancing the immersive quality of my work." Her space is, perhaps, every artists dream.
But not everyone has access to a big, light-filled windows. If you’re working in a room with little or no natural light, or if you prefer to work at night, choosing the right artificial lighting is crucial. Here are some tips for finding the best lighting solution for your studio:
LED lights with high CRI (Colour Rendering Index): A CRI above 90 is ideal for art, as it mimics natural light and brings out accurate colours.
Warm and cool light balance: Using a mix of warm and cool light sources can prevent eye strain and provide flexibility in adjusting your lighting to suit the mood of your piece. Daylight bulbs usually do the trick. Don't go for lights that are too cool or too warm, as this can affect how you see the colours on your canvas.
Task lighting: Desk lamps, clamp lights, or even adjustable ring lights can be lifesavers when you need extra brightness on specific areas of your work. Make sure to place these lights so they don’t cast shadows over your canvas or workspace.
Remember, lighting isn’t just about seeing your work clearly; it’s also about creating an environment that feels right for you. Experiment with different setups until you find the one that’s perfect for both your artwork and your mood. The right lighting can help you feel energised and focused, allowing your creativity to shine.
Finding the Perfect Workstation for Your Needs
Every artist has their own unique way of working, so your workstation should feel like it was designed just for you. Think about what you need most in a workspace—is it a large flat surface for spreading out your materials? Extra storage underneath? A standing option for more movement while you work? Your studio should adapt to your process, not the other way around.
For painters or anyone working with large canvases, a sturdy easel or wall-mounted setup can provide the support you need without taking up too much floor space. If you’re into detailed work, like drawing or illustration, consider a desk with adjustable angles to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. Here are a few pointers for setting up a versatile workstation:
The size of your table or desk: If you have the room, opt for a larger table that can accommodate all your materials, tools, and ongoing projects. However, if you’re working in a small space, a compact desk can still do the trick, especially if you add wall-mounted storage to keep things organised.
Standing vs. sitting options: Many artists enjoy standing desks or convertible tables that let them switch between sitting and standing. Standing allows more freedom of movement, which can be especially helpful if you’re working on large pieces or like to move around while creating.
Multipurpose workstations: For those with limited space, consider a foldable or wall-mounted desk that can be tucked away when not in use. You can even get creative with a rolling cart that can double as a workstation and storage solution!
Make sure your workspace feels comfortable and accessible. Keep frequently used tools within arm’s reach, and arrange your materials in a way that feels intuitive to you. A functional, personalised workstation can help you stay in your creative flow without interruptions.
Storage Solutions to Keep Materials Organised
Art supplies have a way of piling up—brushes, paints, sketchbooks, and other tools each seem to come with a life of their own. Keeping your studio organised doesn’t mean you have to create a pristine, magazine-ready space, but a bit of order can save you time and reduce frustration when you’re in the middle of a project. Here are some tips on creating an organised yet creative-friendly space:
Shelving and wall-mounted storage: If your workspace is small, utilise your wall space for shelves or pegboards. This way, you can store your materials without taking up precious desk or floor space. Shelving is great for paints, sketchbooks, and supplies that you can easily reach for.
Clear containers and labels: Organise smaller items, like pens, brushes, or pastels, in clear containers so you can see everything at a glance. Labelling containers, while not essential, can help you locate specific tools quickly and stay organised. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about a neatly labeled art supply collection!
Drawer units and carts: A rolling cart is a lifesaver for small studios because it can store supplies, tools, and even finished works, and you can move it out of the way if needed. Drawer units, whether under your desk or standalone, provide hidden storage for tools and materials you might not use every day.
Keep essentials within easy reach: Think about which supplies you use most often and keep them close by. This could be a small caddy on your desk or a shelf positioned within arm’s reach of your workstation.
Organising your studio doesn’t mean hiding everything away; it’s more about making your space functional and enjoyable to work in. Your storage should enhance your workflow, allowing you to quickly grab what you need without disrupting your creative process. Remember, even a little organisation can go a long way in helping you feel more grounded and focused in your space.
Creating a Comfortable, Personalised Atmosphere
Your studio is more than just a place to work—it should be a space where you feel at ease and ready to create. Adding personal touches can make your studio feel like a welcoming retreat that inspires you. Think about what brings you comfort and creativity: plants, favourite art pieces, a cozy chair, or even family photos. Plants are a fantastic addition; they add a bit of nature, improve air quality, and bring a calming vibe to your space.
Lighting a candle or hanging up inspirational quotes can make a big difference too. Some artists even keep a mood board of their favourite works or styles nearby to keep inspiration within reach. The goal is to create an environment that feels truly yours—one that brings you peace and creativity even on tough days.
Finally, think about ways to keep the space stress-free. Limit clutter, invest in a comfortable chair if you’re seated for long periods, and set up a corner where you can take short breaks. Remember, the more you love your space, the easier it’ll be to settle in and get lost in your art.
Essentials Every Artist Needs in Their Studio
No matter your medium, there are a few essentials that every artist’s studio should have on hand. Here’s a checklist of must-haves that can make your studio setup easier and more enjoyable:
Art Supplies: Start with the basics like paint, brushes, pencils, and sketchpads, based on your preferred medium. Over time, you can expand your supplies with specialty items as your practice evolves.
Cleaning Tools: A simple cleaning setup—paper towels, rags, and brush cleaners—is a must to keep your workspace neat. A small trash bin nearby can help keep things tidy as you work.
Storage Solutions: Keep your supplies organised with shelving, drawers, or storage bins. Even a small cart or caddy can help you manage materials so you can focus on creating instead of hunting for supplies.
Protective Gear: For those working with paints, chemicals, or tools, items like gloves, aprons, and face masks are essential. Safety glasses might seem unnecessary until you realise the difference they make!
Basic Lighting: If natural light is scarce, make sure you have reliable task lighting to work comfortably and see colours accurately.
And for a touch of luxury, consider adding speakers for background music, an ergonomic chair, or even a mini-fridge for refreshments. These small touches can make your studio feel more enjoyable and keep you comfortable as you work through long sessions.
Making the Most of Small Spaces
A spacious studio is nice, but not every artist has access to one. Luckily, a smaller space can work wonders for your creativity and efficiency. When you’re limited on space, every inch counts, and that focus can push you to make more intentional choices about your setup.
Wall-mounted storage is one of the easiest ways to maximise a small studio. Shelves, hooks, or a pegboard can keep your tools and materials within easy reach without taking up valuable floor space. If your workspace needs to be flexible, foldable tables or workstations can be a lifesaver, letting you set up and store things as needed.
Smaller spaces can actually boost your focus because there’s less room for distractions. Embrace the cozy atmosphere by setting up a clean, minimal workstation that meets your essentials. Remember, a successful studio isn’t about size—it’s about creating a space that’s functional and feels right for you. Even a tiny corner can be transformed into a powerhouse of creativity with the right touches!
Tips for Setting up Your Art Studio Environment
Keeping your studio clean and organised can be a challenge, especially when you’re in the creative zone. However, maintaining a tidy environment helps reduce stress and can even inspire fresh ideas. Start by setting aside a few minutes before or after each session to clear up supplies, wipe down surfaces, and put away materials. This small habit can prevent clutter from piling up and keep your studio feeling fresh.
Having said that, many artists prefer to work in the chaos. Artists like Antony Micallef and Ryan Hewett use their studio's as a place to be free. If that's something you find inspiring - by all means, make it chaotic! Remember, your art studio should be an inspiring space for you.
Consider periodically refreshing the space to keep it inspiring. Rearranging artwork, adding a new plant, or updating your mood board can make a big difference in how you feel when you enter the room. If you need a boost, try setting a “studio reset” routine where, once a month or so, you give your space a mini-makeover. Changing even a few elements can make your studio feel renewed and spark new ideas.
For quick resets, try organising your workstation, cleaning your tools, or playing new music in the background. Little touches like these can keep your studio space lively and engaging, helping you stay motivated and excited to create.
To conclude, Build a Space That Inspires You
Creating your ideal studio is a personal journey, and there’s no single way to make it “perfect.” Your studio should feel like an extension of yourself—comfortable, functional, and inspiring. Remember, a creative space is meant to grow and change as you do, evolving with your artistic journey. Whether you’re just starting with a small corner or you’ve got a dedicated room, there’s beauty in finding what works best for you.
A great studio isn’t about the latest furniture or the perfect setup; it’s about crafting a space that makes you want to sit down and create. Take the time to explore what makes you feel at home in your studio, and let it be a place that encourages you to make, dream, and grow as an artist.
We hope this article has been helpful to you in your journey! We wish you an inspiring art studio.
Happy Painting!
Team ArtSloth