In September, 2017, I remodeled my art studio for the second time. The first time was when I originally moved into the location when I converted it from a very raw state of a simple storage unit to a funky, functional art studio that made my heart very happy. Here are some photos of the original condition of the studio:
It was my first art studio and I was proud of its soulful creativity. Here was the first remodel:
After being in it for a year, I decided it was time to take it to the next level. My sister-in-law flew from Arizona to Napa with a suitcase full of tools and a warrior attitude to spend the 3 day weekend giving my studio a serious facelift. We had some serious work to do. The goal was to provide cosmetic beautification, practical art studio updates, such as a new art hanging system, and necessary upgrades, such as insulation. My studio would be open to the public in a couple of weeks for Open Studios and I wanted it to be perfect.
My studio gets hot in the summer and cold in the winter since it’s old and not well insulated. We started with cutting and installing insulation in the ceiling. In addition to putting insulation on the ceiling, we found flexible insulation that we could put in the windows and roll up for light or let down to keep out the cold or heat, depending on the season. We (I use the term loosely, my sister-in-law did all the work!) created a ramp for my main studio so there is no longer a step down into the studio, but a beautiful, carpeted ramp easing my guests into a place to create.
Treats and tools were both important:
Lots and lots of paint was in order. My studio has one large studio room for creating, another room for relaxing and connecting with my tribe and another room which is my office.
Some of the finishing touches were curtains I made from some fabric I fell in LOVE with and a wrought iron mirror, both of which I found at a consignment store. The wrought iron mirror is as heavy as it is gorgeous! I hung it from the ceiling with a couple of carbiners. I also installed a professional, new art hanging system for my art, which made me feel like “real” artist. It was important for my studio guests to feel comfortable, so I bought a portable heater/AC unit, a new water dispenser and a mini refrigerator. Lastly, I added some new furniture; well, at least it was “new” to the studio!
I love supporting good causes and using recycled material when possible. The stools for the wine cocktail table I found at the Habitat for Humanity store. I had been looking for a small loveseat for a year and a half and I couldn’t find the perfect piece. Then, one day as I was perusing the local Good Will store looking for items to use in my collages, I found an amazing loveseat in a gorgeous color with beautifully crafted wood work. My investment: $15! It was my favorite treasure find, right after the wrought iron mirror.
If you are in Napa, come visit me. For those of you how aren’t in town (yet), welcome to my studio!
My Office:
My entertaining room:
My Studio:
I help purpose-driven entrepreneurs upgrade their mindset, eliminate limiting beliefs and reprogram critical, negative self-talk so they can courageously and authentically use their voice, gifts and talents to make a bigger impact.
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Carpe Diem!
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Thank you for sharing this part of your journey with us. I love the thought, care and love that went into your new studio. The next time we are in Napa I will make sure to let you know in advance so we can see you and your studio.
Thanks for coming along for the ride Carol! I would love to share the studio with you and enjoy some time catching up on all the years that have come and gone but have kept us together. The door is always open and the Welcome mat is always out for you!