Studio Hunting

This past week I have been looking for a new studio space. I feel it is time to take my art and business up a notch. Plus I need more space since many of my pieces are becoming larger in scale.

Looking for a studio is nearly a full-time job! And a bit stressful. Of course, like looking for a new apartment or house, no place is perfect, priced right, or in the right neighborhood. So this forces the question, what is it I really want from a studio? What is important?

First, I want more space. Second, I would like the space to be within my budget and lastly, I want to be part of a larger artistic community. So far, the larger spaces are out of my budget (time to rethink the budget)and all those in established art communities are full. So, this is becoming an exercise in predicting the future and/or gambling on what may happen if I go here or go there. Will a community develop? Will I find kindred spirits? Will I find a creative support network to challenge me to grow artistically?

In addition the the community, is the question of will people come to my studio for open studio nights? I suspect the neighborhod will influence that as well.

So, after one week, I have seen seven locations in three different neighborhoods. Two studios stand out. Do I decide now or continue looking? The funny thing is that I know which ever space I select, I will make it work. This feels like a big deal but I am beginning to thing it is only a big deal in my head.

This is like starting a painting. There is no wrong or right way to start and the end product will not resemble the original concept, it is often better. This may be a decision based on gut feelings than on rational decision making.

Time will tell where I end up. Regardless, this is going to be a fantastic experience. I'll post my new address once I get there.