Studio Envy…Or is it?
As Devon Open Studios approaches, I can't help but think about all the incredible creative spaces I'll be visiting. Sure, I might experience a touch of studio envy—after all, I don’t have a dedicated studio. But rather than dwelling on what I don’t have, I focus on the positives. I’m incredibly grateful for my current setup. It might be unconventional, but it works for me in so many ways.
The Beauty of an Unconventional Setup
First off, I’m fortunate to have a spacious home and an incredibly supportive (and tolerant!) husband. In the early days, our open-plan layout allowed me to keep an eye on our mischievous dog, Boo, while still managing to get my creative work done. So, where exactly is my studio? Well, it’s everywhere: the lounge, the dining room, the utility room, the kitchen, and even the garden.
In the dining room, I spread out across my writing table, sideboard, and dining table—this is where I create glass layers, compile my pieces, and add intricate details. By the end of the day, though, the table is always cleared so we can sit down to eat. My husband isn’t too fussed about this, but it’s a standard I hold myself to. I think it’s partly due to my neurodiverse brain needing tidiness to reduce the overwhelm that a messy workbench creates.
The lounge is my cosy haven for sketching and working on my laptop, usually with Boo snuggled up beside me on the sofa. It’s the perfect spot for dreaming up new ideas while enjoying the comforts of home.
The storage nook (the lounge cupboard) is filled with glass tools and supplies. I also share the space with the electric board, filing cabinet, and indoor wood store. Maybe one day, it’ll be entirely dedicated to glass!
The utility room is home to my kiln. Without heating in the room, it doubles as a great way to dry our washing.
The kitchen is where I use the tile saw and grinder, as it’s the farthest spot from our attached neighbour and has the only internal door to keep Boo’s curious nose out of harm's way.
Finally, in the garden, I scrape off kiln shelf primer. Even though I wear a dust mask, it’s easier to clean up outside, and I don’t have to worry about Boo’s little lungs.
So, that’s my "studio"—a bit unconventional, but it’s mine, and it works perfectly for me.
Taking My Studio on the Road
Given the sprawling nature of my home studio, the challenges of our house being a renovation project, and the difficulties of managing our mischievous dog, Boo, I’ve decided to host my Open Studio at the lovely Garden Room of Wray Valley B&B & Camping, just a few minutes down the road. This space offers a welcoming environment for visitors to explore my work without the logistical challenges, including limited parking in our close-knit hamlet.
Join Me at Devon Open Studios
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a fellow creative, or just curious, I invite you to come by and say hello on September 13th–15th and 20th–22nd. I can’t wait to see you at Devon Open Studios!
See you soon,
Jacq x