It was one of those days when I barely managed to get out of bed, I woke up feeling like my muse had flown away. It wasn’t the first time I felt that way, but every time somehow feels like it’s the first time. My feet dragged me to my studio against my will; yes, they can have a mind of their own sometimes hehe. As soon as I entered the room, an endearing raccoon enjoying its time in a rug market, invites me to join her, and then my little bunch of dry flowers who always seem to be having fun, say hello from the distance… All I needed was stepping into my studio for a creative feeling to struck me and then my body just can’t resist the urge to start a new project.
The truth is that every person has the potential to be creative in one way or another. Sometimes what’s lacking is the right environment to nurture a creative mind and let it blossom. As humans, we tend to be highly influenced by our surroundings: what we see, what we hear, what others do… That’s why if we surround ourselves with things that encourage and stimulate a creative thinking, it’s very likely we’ll find inspiration more easily and more often. Or in many occasions can save you from staying down all day.
This is why I strongly believe in the importance of having a workspace/studio whether tiny or big filled with things that make you happy and encourage you to create! But how do you transform an ordinary space into a wellspring of inspiration? Here are 4 simple things you can do to have your own creative haven:
Quirky Finds
Forget boring furniture! My studio thrives on the unexpected. How amusing it is to look at a fluffy cloud with legs and feet smiling at you; or a “bunny” who looks more like a flattened sweet potato with ears wearing a type of scarf, but still there’s no doubt its a bunny hehe. These quirky finds aren’t just cute – they spark my imagination in surprising ways. Every playful detail, every hint of whimsy, becomes a fountain for new ideas.
How can your mind not start dreaming when looking at things like these! Hunting for these treasures is half the fun.
I love going to small shops in hidden corners, both when I travel or simply go out to explore towns nearby.
These pieces not only add personality to my space, but also remind me of the incredible talent of other creatives around the world.
Have you find interesting little things yourself? It’d be so lovely to see them.
Artwork
My studio walls are a living gallery, a vibrant tapestry woven from my own creations and pieces by artists I admire. Surrounding myself with art isn’t just decorative; it’s a constant source of inspiration.
Seeing things one has created is a reminder of what you are capable of and of what you have accomplished with dedication and love, and that by itself can be a powerful motor to keep one in the creative journey, to make you want to create more and more.
Many times I’ve found myself staring at one of my paintings and thinking: “Wow, I did that! How was that even possible?” (with a subtle smile). This fuels a desire to keep pushing boundaries. Similarly, admiring the work of other artists ignites a spark for trying new things, to learn new techniques, to express yourself in different ways, and the list goes on.
Books
Don’t books always adorn and make a space look more interesting and cozy?
Having books in my studio ready to be grabbed, has proven to be good when I’m having a creative block.
Going through the pages of a book involves more senses than simply looking at a screen. The tactile experience of turning a page and feeling the texture of the paper can have a very soothing effect, which in turn could be just what you need to open the mind to new ideas.
In my studio I have different types of books: some about techniques and overall knowledge of art, painting and drawing, some biography ones from artists I love and admire, The art of making some of the Disney movies (you learn so much from those), children’s books with their beautiful and whimsical illustrations, a book that interviews more than 100 women creatives and entrepreneurs, some magazines showcasing artists and artisans and their workspaces, etc…
Since they are there on display waiting to be read or looked at, on down days, your hands can just do you the favor grabbing one or two.
You don’t need to delve into a deep read; sometimes simply flipping through pages filled with vibrant colors and captivating imagery is enough to unleash your inner creative.
Plants and natural light
Do you enjoy going to plant nurseries? I do! Being surrounded by all sorts of plants and flowers is incredibly relaxing. The truth is that we are meant to be in and enjoy nature. It revitalize us in a very special way, and if you add beautiful natural light to that, the benefits triple immediately.
Having plants in my studio not only make me happy but also reminds me of the beauty of life and the need to nurture and take care of oneself, just like plants need to be nurtured and cared for, which is essential if we want to continue creating.
Also, there’s so much we can learn by looking at nature!
A single leaf, with its intricate veins and perfect form, becomes a masterclass in color and design.
And then there’s the light. My studio basks in the afternoon sun, creating a warm, inviting glow around 2pm. It’s a time of day I especially cherish.
While not everyone has access to natural light, I believe it plays a powerful role in how I feel and how I approach my work.
