This past week, I re-arranged my workspace inside my studio so that I have more places to work on more projects and commissions. More places to create.
But the inside of my studio is just part of my space. I am so inspired when I am here, not just by all the paint and supplies within my reach but also by the farm that surrounds me.
There are several barns on this historic farm. Here is one that I captured in a reflection on my studio front door.
This past week, I used one of the barns on the property as a backdrop for my art. It was the windiest of days and I was afraid my art would become a farm projectile. I had a few close calls.
I did a bit of staging with a old ladder and a colorful Anthropologie chair. What do you think? I think I need to do this more; make my surroundings a part of the story of my art.
Here is another shot of a recent city painting I did on a vintage frame with a backdrop painted on a reused plastic sign. I love the contrast of against the barn. I love how the shadows of the trees reflect on the glass. I want to paint these trees as a backdrop on another painting.
This property is my muse. Creative ideas grow alongside the rows of corn.
And sometimes my farm muse is a little distracting. It is hard not to grab my camera and run around and take pictures. I do this often when I should be painting but I feel no guilt.
Here is a shot of the side of my studio taken from behind this old tractor.
Here is a closer shot. Plein air painters often paint outside the art center just a few feet away. I love that.
There are shady trees and a sweet little well beside my studio. I painted the front door "Chinese Chartreuse". It compliments the grass, don't you think?
Here is my front door with the screen wide open and some pansies in an old metal crate I reused. I love this door.
My side door is painted "Lucky Orange". I do feel really lucky to create in this cottage on this farm surrounded by other artists and farmers working the fields. These colorful chairs made from recycled plastics are the perfect place to catch up with a friend over coffee or a glass of wine.
Spring and early summer are my favorite times here because all of my favorite flowers grow in abundance. Each morning, the grass is dewy as I walk over to clip a few peonies. Aren't these amazing?
And lilacs seem to be everywhere leaving the air in and surrounding my studio so fragrant.
There are places on the farm where it looks like time has stopped. Like this old gas pump.
It doesn't really matter which direction I look, beauty surrounds my creative space. It is amazing I get as much work done as I do.
As I look out my studio window today, I know this mild winter is wearing down.
And soon the farm will be green and lilacs will be in glasses beside my paint brushes again. I am giddy with anticipation.
So before the lilacs bloom, I have lots of creating to do. I have so many ideas for brand new work in my head. Time to put on many pots of coffee, play my music and get painting. Time to focus.
And after the painting is done, I will use the farmland around me to showcase my art.
Not sure why I haven't done that sooner.
But I am so ready to do that now.