Welcome to the latest edition of "A View From the Easel," where artists share insights about their creative spaces. This week, we delve into the inspiring routines of artists who embrace the beauty of dawn while painting and the tranquility of dusk during their embroidery sessions.
Interested in sharing your own workspace? We invite you to explore our submission guidelines and contribute your unique studio experience!
Arleene Correa Valencia, Napa, California
How long have you been working in this space?
For a year and a half.
Describe an average day in your studio.
My day starts at 5 AM with a shared coffee with my husband before we embark on our daily activities. I hit the gym for a workout, return home for a quick shower and breakfast, and usually arrive at my studio by 11 AM. Once there, I turn on the music--often Carin Leon or nostalgic tunes from Joan Sebastian--and dive into my work. I juggle drawing, painting, and embroidering, while also tackling large-scale projects that can be physically demanding.
Due to herniated discs in my spine, I need to switch tasks frequently to manage discomfort. My Spotify usage is substantial, as music helps maintain my focus. My studio is located in an old elementary school, where I often enjoy lunch on the playground or stroll through the nearby vineyard. I typically wrap up my work after sunset, relying on a headlamp to navigate back to my car, arriving home around 9 PM, fueled by strawberry protein shakes and coffee.
How does the space affect your work?
The serene environment of my studio, nestled among vineyards, provides a peaceful backdrop that I cherish. Each sunset over the vineyards serves as a reminder of life's precious moments. I'm often accompanied by squirrels, birds, and delightful hummingbirds that visit the apple tree outside my window. Creating art in this setting feels like a retreat, enabling me to process my work in a way that would be impossible in a more chaotic environment.
How do you interact with the environment outside your studio?
While there isn't an active art community nearby, I have formed friendships with local winemakers who embody resilience and dedication. Their commitment to crafting beautiful wines adds to the richness of my surroundings.
What do you love about your studio?
My studio offers a sense of safety and warmth. The chance to create art here came at a crucial moment in my life, reaffirming my belief in the transformative power of art and the goodness of people.
What do you wish were different?
I wish more individuals could share this space with me, experiencing the breathtaking sunsets over the vineyards.
What is your favorite local museum?
The Hess Collection at Hess Persson Estates is a hidden treasure in Napa Valley. My first encounter with an Andy Goldsworthy piece occurred here during high school, making it a cherished memory.
What is your favorite art material to work with?
I have a passion for embroidery, appreciating its dual nature of being both a challenging and healing process. Each stitch represents a journey of transformation, illustrating how beauty can emerge from pain.
Sasha Lynn Roberts, Pupukea, Hawaii
How long have you been working in this space?
For two years.
Describe an average day in your studio.
My studio blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Inside, I have a desk and a rolling cart for my supplies, while larger projects unfold on the grass outside. I embrace a cozy atmosphere, often donning pajamas, enjoying a glass of wine, and listening to music. Early mornings, around 5 or 6 AM, are my favorite times to work, as I relish observing how my pieces evolve with the changing light.
How does the space affect your work?
As an artist inspired by nature, the tranquil setting filled with fruit trees, songbirds, and chickens profoundly influences my painting. The calmness of my surroundings is reflected in my artwork.
How do you interact with the environment outside your studio?
Currently, I teach art at a local elementary school and conduct private classes for neighborhood children. This connection began when kids from the neighborhood gathered to watch me paint, fostering a sense of community. In Honolulu, I also helped establish the Curated Art Merge, a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage in creative events.
What do you love about your studio?
I cherish the openness of my studio. Growing up in New York City, my creative space was confined, limiting my ability to work on larger pieces. Now, my studio embodies the calmness and beauty I aspire to depict in my art.
What do you wish were different?
I hope for a more practical layout, particularly a workbench for my woodworking projects, which currently lacks adequate airflow and a solid surface.
What is your favorite local museum?
The Downtown Art Center in Honolulu stands out for its dedication to showcasing local artists alongside thoughtfully curated exhibits.
What is your favorite art material to work with?
Wood is my preferred medium, as I enjoy exploring how different types absorb paint and change over time.
