Samantha Humphreys

I have been finding ‘stuff’ that I think would be great to add to my miniature studio and just kind of dumping it in. It’s an ongoing therapeutic task, as each item carries its unique charm and potential and fits nicely into its new role as beautiful object, subject, muse and inspiration. I have created small paintbrushes, miniature canvases and tiny easels that are perfect for bringing this project to life. Already, it is shaping up to be a convincing replica of a working art studio, reflecting the creativity and passion that artists nurture in their spaces. The benefit of an art studio, though, in all honesty, is that finding ‘stuff’ is easy as anything, and everything could be useful to an artist. From scraps of paper to bits of wood, even crumpled paper and debris. Every little thing can spark inspiration and lead to new ideas. This process of collecting and making has not only filled the studio but has also reignited my understanding of what truly makes a creative environment thrive. I have started compiling a list of items that an artist cannot live without, based on the true life story of , well, me! I have limited myself to a list of ten, with a little cheating of course because, really, ten? A ridiculous notion.

1. Pencils. Obvious, but I mean many, many pencils. Pencils made of wood, made with charcoal. Pencils with colour, pencils that are mechanical and pencils that are not pencils at all, but are rubbers. Pencils in various shapes, some round, some hexagonal, and others triangular for ergonomic grip. Pencils of different grades for various artistic expressions, ranging from soft buttery lines to crisp, sharp marks. For writing, sketching, or colouring, a collection of pencils is essential for any creative. Watercolour pencils and a decent set of coloured pencils are seriously underestimated by many aspiring student artist.
2. Brushes. Another obvious one, to be fair, the list in its entirety is obvious to most. Brushes of all sizes, watercolour brushes, acrylic brushes and some brushes in between that are used for everything from delicate work to broader strokes. Brushes for painting on walls, brushes for brushing away rubber debris, and also, boringly, a brush to sweep the floor and a brush that lives with a dustpan. In addition, there are specialised brushes for specific techniques: fan, round, flat, rigger and a chap called Filbert.
3. Surfaces to paint on (paper, cardboard etc.). This is a never-ending possibility, I can’t begin to tell you how many surfaces I like to use. I have the usual card/paper/speciality paper, which comes in various textures and thicknesses. I also have old bits of flooring, perfect for a painting that will be free standing or unframed. Old bits of plasterboard from an old wall, providing an interesting texture to an acrylic painting and packs of playing cards, which add a playful element to small projects, along with old books whose pages can be transformed into unique canvases.
4. Vessels. Jars, old cups, and vases are all required for storing things in so you can see them clearly. They serve not only as practical items but also as still life subjects, showcasing the beauty of everyday objects and their forms while holding water, enhancing the aesthetic of any space. Because, well it isn’t just about the practicalities, it has to look good. I like my storage to be pleasing to the eye too, and as my space is for therapeutic art sessions, I need it to be a calming environment and not too cluttered.
5. Shelves. As many as possible, ones that can be moved about are the best! There can never be too many shelves in an art studio!
6. Drying area/rack. As space saving as possible, I utilize my wall mounted rack, which is incredibly efficient and helps keep everything organized. I use it not only to store paper stacks in an orderly fashion but also to ensure that my workspace remains clutter-free. Furthermore, I peg my artwork up on a line to dry, allowing it to air out properly while maximizing the use of vertical space in my studio.
7. Washing line. See above.
8. Art media. This is getting exciting now, ooooh there are so many possibilities. Acrylic paint, watercolour, printing inks, powder paint, marker pens, felt pens, paint pens, watercolour crayons, watercolour pens…coloured pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, charcoal, pastels in various forms, mixed media supplies, ink pads, gel pens, paintbrushes of every shape and size…there is a point where you will panic and wonder whether the art studio, undeniably the biggest pencil case you’ve ever had, is in fact large enough to house all the wonderful art supplies you have acquired over the years. The endless combinations of these materials, each capable of sparking creativity and inspiration, knowing where they all are is such a joy, leading to an overwhelming sense of potential that makes every artist’s heart race.
9. Table. Essential for any workspace. I have a beautiful old table that my Mum got from a boot sale about forty years ago. Sanded and stained, I always longed to own it. It serves as a solid base for my practical work.
10. Radio. For Popmaster, obviously.