As we moved around many times the first thing I did was find somewhere to paint which usually meant commandeering my own studio or study. After a few years in Bangkok we had to move back to the UK when my other half was diagnosed with cancer. This was an amazing space in an old high rise in central Bangkok and I was forever changing it around but what I loved was the quality of light. Sunset in Thailand is around 6pm year round but the light is much stronger than UK and great for an artist. Sometimes I would paint on the balcony overlooking central Bangkok which was surreal and hot.

2020 will always be known in my house, and probably for you too, as the year the world went crazy! For us it wasn’t just Covid but my husband passing and the fallout coping with his aggressive and toxic family. Somehow we picked ourselves up and realised the best way is to get on and create a new future for ourselves. First step wa to I transform our old garage into a studio complete with shelves for artwork and painting wall with nails to hang artwork on.

I have been trying to steer clear of wasting time endlessly scrolling online shopping sites for things we can’t afford. The panic buying of toilet rolls has subsided and there has been a nationwide focus on finally getting round to those jobs we put off at home. Adapting to working from the kitchen table requires a new type of motivation (particularly surrounded by children) and creating a quiet and invigorating/calm space to work in has become imperative. Just before the national lockdown DIY stores around the country sold out of home decor supplies as DIY suddenly became de rigueur. For years it has been nothing new for travelling freelancers to rock up at an Internet cafe and hire a desk for a few hours and this flexibility is now setting the trend for the way we do business in the future.

So how do you make an office space at home work for you? Being an artist/architect I have always added art - why? Well …….

1. Art adds a sense of dignified calm or colourful dynamism to a space.

2. Hanging a piece of art, adding a plant, clearing your desk and letting in light can help to chase away those Sunday night/school tomorrow (not done my homework) blues. It shouts ‘this is my place and I’m ready to get going’.

3. Artwork can transform a house into a home- personalise the space, make it your own.

4. Artists throw everything into their art practice and buying art is not only a good investment but it helps the artist too.

5. Original paintings are affordable for most people and if you like something don’t be afraid to talk to the artist. They are always keen to discuss their work with you. ( see later posts here on buying art and what to look for).

6. Hanging a small painting above your desk adds inspiration.

   ………….Find what works for you but if you would like some help or just to chat about art you like -contact me below.