I thought I’d start with a peek at what I’ve been doing. I recently moved, and finally set up my studio space the way I’ve always wanted. I am already on the path of productivity, and have a few projects going. Here’s a view:

I stole an idea from my friend Adrienne, and put my computer right behind my cutting mat. My desk, given to me by my friend Avalon, is giant and perfect for someone like me who works with a variety of materials. It’s large enough to cut fabric on, keep my sketchbook and other books, and still have my laptop right by. I also love having all of my fabric and yarn right next to me and in perfect sight. It’s easier to select my materials when they’re visible and organized.

Underneath I have paints, my sewing machine, various pads of various kinds of paper, and current works on canvas. To the right I have my mannequin bust, who currently is taking the role of sitting pretty, but will soon be used to host a dress I’m designing. In addition to my more serious super fine art or super design work, I’m doing some fun stuff.

It’s a little hard to see because of my camera phone quality photos (note to self, save up for a new digital), but I’m trying my hand at cross stitch needlepoint with a mini-kitty pattern, working on buying a couch to tie the room together, starting a gold foil lion engraving, and designing two new tattoos in memory of my grandfathers who died within the past year.

I’ve thought a lot about what makes a good studio space, looked at friends’ spots and pictures from great artists, and realized that most of all you need organization, materials readily available, and to surround yourself with inspiration and the things you love. For me, it also doesn’t hurt to have a cat and my book and movie collection nearby to keep productivity levels up. 

Fun fact: It took one and a half Lord of the Rings movies to set up my studio and living room area. I highly recommend watching all three in a row on a day you need to keep yourself in the house to work. Wanting to finish the story is great motivation!

Another reason to love Best Coast: this video was on their blog. I think she is as obsessed with cats as I am, OMG.

Chloë

Bethany

Looking at other pictures I realized the two aren’t that similar, but I think that if Ms. Sevigny HAD started a band it would be this one. Maybe it’s just the clothes. Who knows.

Anyway, from the first song I fell in love and immediately googled. I already know Best Coast is going to be the anthem of my summer; the music screams beaches, bikinis, summer love, and bike rides. Check it out my kittens.

I’m so glad I am a girl who grew up in the 1990s. Hell yeah Veruca Salt!

I hope that anytime I get a bit too sloppy I look this cute.

Now, the world can be an unfair place at times
But your lows will have their complement of highs
And if anyone should cheat you, take advantage of, or beat you
Raise your head and wear your wounds with pride

Ugh.

Fan video, but this is my favorite song so far. It reminds me of going down south, driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s a road that takes you the whole way, and even though it’s a longer trip it’s more beautiful than most anything you can see on the east coast.