I remember the first day I walked into my studio space. It certainly didn't look like a studio then....was a mere shell of an office; drab yellow walls, garish fluorescent lighting, stained carpet. But I was so enthralled with the idea of having a place of my own, that I looked past those things and noticed most of all, the most beautiful quality of light streaming through the large windows. The space felt private and safe and quiet. I knew I could paint here and I knew it would be a solid choice for putting down the roots of my young business.
Over the next ten years, the studio space evolved. My landlord was wonderful...For me, he painted the walls clean and bright and laid down new carpet. He allowed me to break down walls to reconfigure the space. He encouraged me to make it mine. My haven, I often call it. Here, I thrive..happy to be surrounded by my music, art, books, photos, trinkets, shells and handwritten notes from friends near and far. I love that I have a gallery space to show my art and a sunlight filled space to paint. Here, there is room to breathe.
Of course, you can call any space a studio...If you've visited, you know that in many ways it is still just a simple office space. But, a true studio it's become....a creative hub for the many facets of my business, from art production to fine art licensing. A place to share my art, which is so personal, with family and friends. A comfortable place for my staff to work. A feel good place which happens to feel a lot like me. Yes, I identify deeply with this space that I call mine. But, as has been the theme of my life these past two years, it's time again, for a new change to unfold...
In less than one week, I'll be moving on, as my landlord has decided it is time to sell my beloved space. Behind the scenes for the better part of a month, I have been quietly packing, little by little, sorting ten years of my life, box by box. I'll be relocating Shell Artistree, back home for a while. I have a small space carved out there and although working from home will provide some unique challenges, it will also give me time to find a new studio on my own timeline. I'll take my time and look for a new space that calls my name.
For those who know me well, you know how difficult this loss has been for me to absorb...but, as I tuck away the last of my trinkets into boxes and take my watercolors off the walls, stripping the rooms back to the simple office it once was...somehow I feel balanced and ready to move on. I've never been particularly good at letting go of things (places, people...) that I love. I tend to hold on tightly. This time, I'm going to try to let go with grace and hold close the thought that something wonderful is surely waiting for me right around that corner... ~
