What does an artist need to do their best work? For many painters, having studio space is essential. There are many benefits to having a dedicated, private workspace. To quote Joseph Campbell, the famous American scholar and creativity expert, “To have a sacred place is an absolute necessity for anybody today. You must have a room or a certain hour of the day or so, where you do not know who your friends are, you don't know what you owe anybody or what they owe you. This is a place where you can simply experience and bring forth what you are and what you might be.”
Some other reasons a painter needs a studio include:
Work/Life Balance
While a painter can paint anywhere, doing so in the family residence can be a problem. As wonderful as children, sweethearts, and pets are, they can be distracting at the most inopportune moments. Having a state of creative flow interrupted is an experience no artist enjoys. On the other side of the equation, family members can become annoyed and irritated by the need to share their home with the painter’s job. Having a studio space allows the painter to focus on work while they’re at work and on their family when they’re home.
Photo by Artist Linda Colletta
Space for Large Scale Work
Most Bridgeport area homes simply don’t have the space for a painter who works on a large scale. In addition to needing room to set up an easel and canvases, most artists need some room to stand back and consider their work, storage for paint, brushes, and other supplies, and an area to meet with fellow artists, gallery owners, and other studio visitors.
Photo by Artist Linda Colletta
Achieving Creative Flow
In an interview with Wired Magazine, psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi described flow as "being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and you're using your skills to the utmost.” Many artists prize the flow state and find it easier to achieve in the secure privacy of their studio.
Paintings by Artist Judith Corrigan
Painter’s Studio Space in Bridgeport, CT
Bridgeport has a thriving arts community. The American Fabric Arts Building is a unique venue, dedicated to meeting the needs of today’s working artists. Residents find a convivial atmosphere, large well-lit studio spaces, and promotional events including the well-attended Open Studios every November to be the ideal combination of features. To find out more, or to arrange for a tour of available studio spaces, visit amfabarts.com