Art 3 An Art Shed of One’s Own

We’re only on Post 3 and I’m already writing about this, haha. That didn’t take long! As a female artist, do you struggle with finding the time/space/quiet to do your work?

For example, when I am deep in the throws, and suddenly an interpersonal-family-emotional need arises that unnecessarily requires my attention, I get extremely frustrated. I imagine all of the large multi-roomed offices I have seen in large estates on tv, with dark wood shelving holding a library, a large desk, banker’s lamp, fireplace, bar cart, and couches. And even upper-middle class or middle class homes can have a large room for “father’s study”. If a -man- needs -space- to do his -work-, he can have it, and everyone respects it.

I don’t want such an office. That sort of feeling isn’t exactly what I’m going for. Such an office is oftentimes designed to shirk domestic responsibilities. It tries to disguise a personal haven as “work.” Which is sometimes the same, but why hide that? The part that I long for: being able to close a door (even metaphorically), and being respected while you are at work. Additionally, doing a non-work activity while solving a work problem in the back of your mind, and not getting harassed.

One of my fantasies is to have a shed where I can work. It would be on my property. It would be a short walk from my house. It would basically be an all-season tiny cabin. There would be a nice space to work at a drafting table, easel, computer, or tablet. There would be the right amount of sunlight and storage for everything I need. There would be a bathroom, tiny kitchenette, tiny wood-burning stove, and air conditioner. There would be different places to sit so your legs didn’t die. There would sofas and chairs to draw, relax, or nap. It would look uniquely mine.

People could use it and hang out with me in it, but when I would need some space it would be honored.

Asya