learning not to see the new studio

[Jay Zerbe]

well, i had to give up my old studio. i had gotten used to not seeing the oven just behind the easel i worked on most (because it got more north light). and to not see the sink and fridge behind the other easel. since i am now a full-time artist, conserving money is much more important. shock! so i have moved my studio into the "storage bedroom" of a generous friend's place. (see the photos). again, the background against which i see the paintings is totally cluttered with stuff. in addition, all of the paintings (at least on day one) looked awful!! lots of painting over that day! but i am adjusting. today will be day 3 in the new space. i am discovering how different the pieces look depending on which easel they are placed on (this didn't happen at the old place). also, i have much less distance from the pieces, so i have to remember to compensate for that frequently (by squinting from as far as i can get). but - the JOY of painting every day! wow. how fortunate can you get?

[Jay Zerbe]

i added some large white empty canvas boxes behind the easel i use most, and that has helped a lot. thanks for your suggestion!

[Jay Zerbe]

that's a good idea michael. as for walking out somewhere, that is a luxury that i will have to delay until we get the new house, with the LARGE studio built!

[Michael Lownie]

That's funny Jay, my post didn't show up. I had mentioned how I often hang canvas tarps to block out distracting backgrounds. Some times I'll just take my paintings out in the drive way to get some fresh light and distance from them...it's always good to see your work in a variety of settings as you work. I'm glad to see you found a new spot and hope this works out well for you!
Have fun!