How to create an effective home studio

WFH wonders Setting up a creative space requires time, money and consideration. Dominic Carter discovers what artists need to keep in mind when creating one

- Dominic Carter

As with any job or pursuit, the best results emerge from a well-prepared environment. Art is no exception: a home studio can be just as important to creators as paints and pencils.

“Artists create their best work when they can do so in an environment that is comfortable, inviting and practical,” says character designer and illustrator Nuri Durr. “We can spend hours in the same spot toiling away at our art, so it makes sense to customise and tailor our workspace to suit our needs and tastes.”

“A good setup is incredibly important when you work from home,” says illustrator and concept artist Anna Podedworna. “Spending eight hours a day in a chaotic or poorly optimised workspace can turn into a hellish experience very quickly. To avoid ending up hating my job, I can’t spend half of my waking hours in a distracting, ugly environment.”

GETTING STARTED

A personal art studio doesn’t have to be a dedicated building furnished with an array of inspiring knickknacks. If artists are just starting out and working to a strict budget, even the most humble of spaces can yield effective results.

“To make a good home studio, you need a room you can close off from your living space,” says creature designer and illustrator Constantine Sekeris. “Being able to get away from your work will help you to have a good work-life balance, plus you will be able to miss work and therefore be excited to get back to it.