What does the artist need? Nothing in one respect, one can start with very little. However if progress is to be made, certain things become important. Space is one of these. Headspace certainly, but physical space also. In fact three spaces.
The artist needs space in which to work. We all start by painting at the kitchen table. This is fine until dinnertime, then all has to be put away. Any flow underway is undermined, and it is hard to pick up again. No, a dedicated space is needed, where the work and materials can be left safe, until you come back again. This is a must have. A spare room, a small shed. A studio, essentially.
Then, as paintings emerge, one by one, you need somewhere to put them.,especially if you paint on canvas, because these can be bulky. Initially they are fine in a corner of the studio, but as it builds up, storage space becomes essential, if the paintings are not to be damaged. If you paint in oils, then the need to let them dry (maybe for months) is a factor. A secure, dry store is necessary for both materials (we are all guilty of impulse buying materials!) and finished work.
The finished artwork in the store is just gathering dust, so we need somewhere to show it. Local cafes and galleries, yes – hopefully. But people like to call around to see your stuff. You need a gallery. Ideally your gallery is light and spacious, with a loo and coffee facilities, in that way the customer can be made at ease, and take their time. If they feel good about the visit, they are more likely to buy!
So I started at the kitchen table. Then I created a small room at the back of the garage, this was fine for years. It got quite full of ‘stuff’ though, and became difficult to work in, in the end. It certainly restricted my efforts. My response was to concentrate on small sized watercolours. These don’t need much space to create, they are easy to store (unframed). Finally I began to use the ‘granny flat’ as a home gallery.
Now, I find that I have the opportunity to work full-time at my painting, and so the need now presents itself for a larger studio. I have added this to my to do list. The loft over the garage seems to be the best bet!
